BYTES, a Bengaluru-based startup focused on AI-powered Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) for two wheelers, has raised ₹20 lakh in funding from Nikhil Kamath’s WTFund. The funding aims to enhance the company’s development of an AI-powered system to prevent road accidents involving two wheelers, which are a leading cause of fatalities worldwide. With the backing of WTFund, BYTES will conduct pilot programs in collaboration with two-wheeler manufacturers and scale its operations. The grant includes valuable mentorship and strategic partnerships, which will help BYTES refine its technology and reach more riders. The startup uses cutting edge AI and computer vision to create real-time alerts and provide partial control in critical situations, reducing the risk of accidents. This funding marks an important milestone for BYTES as it continues to work toward a safer future for two-wheeler riders.
Overview of BYTES and Its Technology
BYTES is a Bengaluru-based startup that provides an AI-driven Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) designed to enhance two wheeler safety. The company uses AI and computer vision technology to detect high-risk situations on the road, sending real-time alerts to riders to prevent accidents. The system is designed to be integrated into two-wheeler vehicles, providing an extra layer of safety for riders by reducing human error, which accounts for the majority of road accidents. By leveraging vision-based intelligence, BYTES’ system can also take partial control of the vehicle in critical moments, such as applying the brakes or adjusting speed, preventing accidents before they occur. The system aims to minimize fatal accidents and enhance road safety, particularly for two wheeler riders, who are at high risk of injury in traffic related incidents.
Founders and Their Vision
Prakhar Agrawal and Aayush Kumar, the co-founders of BYTES, launched the company in August 2024 with a vision to address the alarming rise in two-wheeler accidents, especially in India. Prakhar has a background in AI and computer vision, while Aayush has expertise in business development and strategy. Together, they identified a gap in the market for effective safety solutions for two wheelers. They sought to create a product that could proactively prevent accidents and protect riders. Their shared goal is to revolutionize the safety landscape for two-wheelers by making AI powered solutions accessible to riders worldwide.
How BYTES Works: Technology and Features
The core feature of BYTES’ technology is its AI-powered ADAS system, which uses advanced vision-based intelligence to predict and prevent accidents. The system analyzes the environment around the rider and detects potential hazards, such as vehicles changing lanes or sudden obstacles. When a risk is detected, the system sends immediate alerts to the rider, allowing them to react quickly and avoid the danger. Additionally, the system can take partial control of the vehicle in critical situations, such as automatically applying brakes or adjusting speed. This combination of real time alerts and autonomous control helps reduce the risk of collisions and enhances overall rider safety. BYTES aims to create a safer riding experience by preventing accidents that would otherwise be caused by human error.
Revenue Model and Product Integration
BYTES follows a B2B revenue model, partnering with two-wheeler Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to integrate its AI-powered safety system into motorcycles and scooters. The company plans to generate revenue by providing software updates, licensing its technology to manufacturers, and offering subscription-based services for continuous system enhancements and updates. The system will be integrated directly into vehicles, allowing OEMs to offer this advanced safety technology as a value-added feature for their customers. BYTES’ business model is designed for scalability, with the potential for widespread adoption as more OEMs implement the safety system across their product lines. This approach allows the company to grow steadily while improving road safety on a larger scale.
Funding and Support from WTFund
BYTES recently secured ₹20 lakh in non-dilutive funding from WTFund, an initiative led by investor Nikhil Kamath. WTFund’s mission is to support early-stage startups with grants, mentorship, and strategic partnerships to help them scale. The grant from WTFund will enable BYTES to accelerate its product development and begin pilot programs with two-wheeler manufacturers. These pilot programs will test the system in real-world conditions and refine the technology based on user feedback. WTFund’s support is a crucial step for BYTES as it expands its reach and continues to improve its safety solution for two-wheelers. The grant is part of WTFund’s second cohort for 2024, which focuses on startups with high-impact potential.
The Role of WTFund in BYTES’ Growth
WTFund is playing a key role in helping BYTES grow by providing not only financial backing but also valuable mentorship. The fund supports startups by offering up to ₹20 lakh in funding, along with access to a network of strategic partners and investors. By participating in the second cohort of 2024, BYTES is joining a group of high-potential startups that are working to solve critical problems across various industries. The support from WTFund will help BYTES refine its AI-powered technology and accelerate its efforts to make two-wheeler riding safer. With mentorship from experts in the field and access to strategic resources, BYTES is well-positioned to scale its operations and bring its innovative safety solution to a broader market.
Market Opportunity and Growing Need for Two-Wheeler Safety Solutions
The global two-wheeler market is massive, with millions of motorcycles and scooters on the roads. According to research, more than 50 million road accidents occur each year, with two wheelers being involved in 60% of these incidents. In India alone, where two wheelers are a common mode of transportation, the rate of accidents is alarmingly high. Human error is a significant factor in these accidents, and the lack of safety features on many two wheelers increases the likelihood of fatalities. BYTES is addressing this issue with its AI-powered safety system, which aims to reduce accidents and save lives. With its innovative solution, BYTES has the potential to transform the safety standards for two-wheeler riders worldwide, making the roads safer for millions.
Future Plans and Expansion Strategy for BYTES
As BYTES continues to develop and refine its technology, the company plans to expand its product offerings. The startup aims to integrate additional features into its safety system, such as automatic emergency responses, accident aftermath support, and real-time diagnostics. These features will further enhance the safety experience for riders and provide comprehensive protection in various scenarios. BYTES is also focusing on building strategic partnerships with more OEMs, which will help the company scale its operations and bring its technology to a wider audience. In the future, BYTES plans to make its technology available globally, expanding beyond India and addressing road safety challenges in other regions with high rates of two-wheeler accidents.
Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs and Startups
BYTES offers valuable lessons for startups aiming to innovate and scale. First, identifying a real-world problem and developing a technology-first solution can lead to significant impact. Entrepreneurs should focus on solving problems that have large scale implications, like road safety, to create meaningful change. Additionally, startups should seek strategic funding and mentorship from organizations like WTFund to help accelerate their growth. Finally, building strong partnerships with industry leaders, such as OEMs, can open up new avenues for scaling products and reaching a broader market. BYTES exemplifies how technology-driven solutions can address critical issues while creating profitable and scalable businesses.
Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs
BYTES’ success demonstrates the importance of addressing real world problems with innovative, tech driven solutions. Entrepreneurs should focus on creating products that solve pressing societal challenges while also considering scalability. Additionally, having a clear revenue model and seeking funding from strategic partners can help startups grow and scale faster. BYTES also shows how essential it is to develop a product with global applicability, allowing for widespread adoption across various regions. Lastly, strategic partnerships and the right mentorship can provide the support needed to refine products and ensure long term success.
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