Pune-based startup Balisto Agritech has introduced an innovative solution to address rising farm labour costs and the high expense of conventional machinery. Founded in 2024 by IIT Bombay graduates Aishwarya Ramakrishnan and Kedar Gokhale, the company has developed the Balisto 130 Pro, a 13 hp multipurpose electric power tiller designed specifically for Indian field conditions.
electric power tiller: Technology Features and Capabilities
The Balisto 130 Pro is designed to handle a variety of agricultural tasks, including land preparation, puddling, weeding, inter-cultivation, and earthing up. It is suitable for multiple crops such as sugarcane, cotton, rice, turmeric, and ginger. The machine features an adjustable working width ranging from 2 to 5 feet, allowing it to adapt to different field requirements.
Key technical specifications include:
- Electric Powertrain: The machine is powered by two detachable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, providing a combined capacity of 4.6 kWh per set. These can be charged using a standard 15-ampere plug point.
- Smart Control: A Smart Machine Control Unit (SMCU) optimizes speed, torque, and traction based on soil resistance, which helps maintain consistent performance while maximizing battery range.
- IoT Connectivity: Integrated IoT capabilities allow for the transmission of real-time operational data, such as battery status, temperature, and RPM, to a central server. This enables remote monitoring and proactive maintenance support.
What This Means for Farmers
The introduction of the Balisto 130 Pro offers several practical benefits for farmers looking to modernize their operations:
- Reduced Operating Costs: By utilizing an electric powertrain, farmers can bypass the rising costs associated with diesel-powered equipment.
- Lower Physical Strain: The machine is engineered to be lightweight and vibration-free. It includes simple operator controls, such as adjustable RPM and an emergency safety lever, to reduce fatigue, back strain, and muscle pain during long hours in the field.
- Improved Accessibility: Balisto Agritech has adopted a dealer-led distribution model to ensure farmers have access to local showrooms for purchasing, training, and after-sales support.
- Rental Opportunities: The machines are sold to both individual farmers and rural agripreneurs. This allows farmers who may not wish to purchase a machine outright to access the technology through rental services, expanding the reach of mechanization.
Since its entry into the market, Balisto Agritech has seen significant traction, generating approximately Rs 70 lakh in revenue over 15 months through the sale of over 50 units. The company continues to expand its dealer network across Maharashtra and is currently working on developing additional attachments and autonomous capabilities to further support agricultural efficiency.
Source: Startuppedia
