Meet Ramkripa Ananthan: The Woman Who Designed India’s Favorite SUVs – Thar, XUV700 & Scorpio
Meet Ramkripa Ananthan: The Woman Who Designed India’s Favorite SUVs – Thar, XUV700 & Scorpio
The Mahindra Thar, one of India’s most celebrated SUVs, has an interesting story behind its design—one that traces back to Ramkripa Ananthan. A mechanical engineer from BITS Pilani, Ananthan played a pivotal role in shaping the Thar’s aesthetics and functionality. Recognized as a leading automotive designer, she has also contributed to other popular Mahindra models, including the Bolero and Scorpio.
With a Master of Design degree from IIT Bombay, Ananthan went on to establish her own design firm, KRUX Studio, after an illustrious career at Mahindra & Mahindra.
A Trailblazing Career at Mahindra & Mahindra
Joining Mahindra & Mahindra in 1997 as an interior designer, Ananthan quickly rose through the ranks. By 2005, she had become the head of the design department, leading a team that worked on some of Mahindra’s most iconic vehicles. Her expertise was instrumental in the development of models like the Xylo and the XUV500, solidifying her reputation as a game-changer in India’s automotive industry.
Leading Design at Ola Electric
In August last year, Ananthan took on a new challenge, stepping into the role of Head of Design at Ola Electric. She now oversees the design of both two-wheelers and the brand’s upcoming four-wheeler lineup.
Ola Electric, a key player in India’s EV market, has ambitious plans for the future. With the launch of Ola Futurefoundry in Coventry, UK, the company aims to set new benchmarks in automotive innovation. One of the highly anticipated launches under her leadership is the Ola Electric Sedan, expected to hit the market with a price range of ₹15-25 lakh.
The Legacy of Mahindra & Mahindra
Mahindra & Mahindra, a subsidiary of the Mahindra Group, has a long-standing legacy in India’s automotive sector. Originally established in 1945 as a steel trading company by Jagdish Chandra Mahindra, Kailash Chandra Mahindra, and Ghulam Mohammed, the brand has evolved into a global powerhouse, manufacturing SUVs, commercial vehicles, and agricultural machinery.
Today, Mahindra continues to be a major player in both domestic and international markets, with its legacy carried forward by industry stalwarts like Anand Mahindra.
From redefining rugged SUVs to steering the future of EV design, Ramkripa Ananthan’s journey is a testament to innovation, perseverance, and excellence in the automotive world.
