Anand Mahindra Praises IIT-Madras Startup for Innovative Electric Sea Gliders
Waterfly Technologies, a startup incubated at IIT-Madras, is making waves with its development of electric sea gliders. This innovative form of travel is designed to provide an alternative to traditional airplanes and ferries. The designs, recently showcased at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, captured the attention of Mahindra Group chairman, Anand Mahindra.
Mr. Mahindra commended the prestigious Indian institute, stating, “IIT Madras promises to rival Silicon Valley in terms of nurturing startups…! Almost every week there’s news of a new ‘TechVenture.'” This accolade highlights the growing reputation of IIT Madras as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The electric sea gliders are designed to take off from water bodies and soar at altitudes around four meters, with the potential to fly up to 150 meters. These futuristic transports can achieve impressive speeds of up to 500 km/hour, potentially revolutionizing the way we perceive maritime travel.
The startup aims to launch a prototype of these sea gliders by the end of this year. Mr. Mahindra expressed admiration for their design, tweeting, “What I like about this one is not just the promise of exploitation of our vast waterways, but the fact that the design of the craft is stunning! Design Rules!” His compliment underscores the combination of practicality and aesthetic appeal in the sea gliders’ design.
In addition to the design of the electric sea gliders, Waterfly Technologies is also developing a battery-powered version with a range of 500 kilometers. They are simultaneously working on a hydrogen-electric version that is expected to cover distances up to 2,000 kilometers. This range expansion could significantly enhance the versatility and applicability of the sea gliders.
The groundbreaking work by Waterfly Technologies not only exemplifies the innovative spirit fostered at IIT-Madras but also aligns with global trends towards sustainable and efficient travel solutions. The initiatives undertaken by the startup reflect the increasing importance of exploring alternative energy sources and travel methods, especially in a world focused on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing connectivity.
As the world looks towards greener and more efficient modes of transport, the efforts of Waterfly Technologies and other such ventures promise to lead India and the world into a new era of maritime travel. With the prototype expected soon, the journey towards commercial viability and wider adoption could be on the horizon, potentially changing how we travel over water.
This recognition from a business leader like Anand Mahindra adds credence to the work being done at the startup. It reinforces the role of Indian institutes as key players in the global tech and innovation landscape. As we anticipate the launch of the electric sea gliders, there’s much to look forward to in terms of advancements in both technology and sustainable travel solutions.
