Competitive Advantage through Digital Platforms: A Case Study of Electric Vehicle Start-Ups in Nagpur

Abstract: In a rapidly changing environment and with the support of policies that push for sustainable mobility, electric vehicle (EV) start-ups in India are quickly emerging as key players in the transport sector. This case study shows how EV start-ups in Nagpur-a city that hopes to become a green mobility hub-are using digital platforms for competitive advantage. By integrating primary data collected through interviews with start-up founders and secondary analysis of the different digital tools employed, the study reveals how these businesses have exploited mobile applications, data analytics, digital marketing, and e-commerce to optimize operations, improve customer reach, and create differentiation. Findings also indicate that the strategic use of digital platforms is incredibly important in cost efficiency, retention of customers, and scalability for these start-ups to contend with larger established players on a level playing field. However, some infrastructural deficiencies in the digital space and funding constraints remain a challenge. The research holds important lessons for the role digitalization can play in transforming the EV ecosystem and makes recommendations aimed at reinforcing the digital competitiveness of regional start-ups in emerging markets.