Meet Ramkripa Ananthan: Engineer Who Designed Your Favourite Vehicles

When we think of iconic Indian SUVs, names like Mahindra Thar, XUV700, and Scorpio are frequently mentioned. Did you know that visionary car designer Ramkripa Ananthan designed all of these vehicles? She has been an icon in transforming Mahindra's SUV segment and is a significant figure in the Indian automotive industry. Let's talk about her journey, her contributions to automotive design, and her future prospects.

Early Career and Education

Ramkripa Ananthan, born in 1971, embarked on her automotive journey with a solid educational foundation. She graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from BITS Pilani and further perfected her design skills with a Master of Design from IIT Bombay's IDC School of Design. This unique combination of technical and creative expertise has been perfect for a career in car design.

Joining Mahindra & Mahindra

Ananthan's career at Mahindra & Mahindra began in 1997 when she joined as an interior designer. Her initial projects included designing the interiors of the Mahindra Bolero, Scorpio, and Xylo. These early assignments showcased her ability to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, setting the stage for her rapid ascent within the company.

By 2005, Ananthan's exceptional talent was recognised, and she was appointed Head of Design at Mahindra. This role allowed her to lead the design of several notable vehicles. Among her significant achievements was the Mahindra XUV500, which became a benchmark for SUV design in India. Her influence grew, and by 2019, she had been promoted to the position of Chief Designer, shaping the future of Mahindra's vehicle lineup.

Revolutionizing Mahindra's SUV Lineup

Under Ananthan's leadership, Mahindra introduced several groundbreaking vehicles that resonated with a wide audience. She played a crucial role in the design of the Mahindra Thar, XUV700, and the ever-popular Scorpio. 

• Mahindra Thar: The Thar is Ananthan's vision come to life, merging the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle with contemporary design elements. It has become an icon in the Indian SUV market, symbolising adventure.
• Mahindra XUV700: Known for its advanced features and stylish design, the XUV700 appeals to a broad customer base. Ananthan's ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with appealing aesthetics has made this vehicle a favourite among consumers.
• Mahindra Scorpio: With its robust and sleek design, the Scorpio continues to be a popular choice. Ananthan's contributions have ensured that it remains relevant and attractive to customers over the years.

Transition to Ola Electric

In 2022, Ramkripa Ananthan joined Ola Electric as the Head of Design. This move marked a significant shift towards the electric vehicle (EV) sector, highlighting her adaptability and forward-thinking approach. At Ola, she leads the design efforts for both two-wheelers and the anticipated four-wheeler divisions.

Ola Electric is renowned for its innovative approach to EVs, and Ananthan's role involves creating a cohesive portfolio that aligns with the company's vision. Her task is to design vehicles that not only meet customer expectations but also push the boundaries of EV design. This includes ensuring that the vehicles are aesthetically pleasing, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly.

From her early contributions at Mahindra to her current endeavours at Ola Electric, Ananthan has consistently delivered innovative designs that have left a lasting impact on the industry. As electric vehicles become increasingly mainstream, designer icons like Ananthan will play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility.