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ADU in conversation with Anuj Prasad on the Road Ahead
- Showcases an all terrain bike
- Futuristic cockpit attracts eyeballs
- Foray into Aerospace & Defence sector
By Sangeeta Saxena
New Delhi. 27 January 2025. Desmania, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in Indian
design, has been redefining the design narrative since its inception in 1993. Co-founded by visionary entrepreneur and designer Anuj Prasad, this multidisciplinary design studio has carved a niche in diverse industries, including product, automotives and branding designs. Known for its user-centered approach, Desmania has contributed significantly to the evolution of Indian design, blending tradition with modernity and innovation with sustainability. And at the recently concluded Bharat Mobility the surprise was Desmania’s foray into an unexpected but exciting sector – Defence & Aerospace. In this candid conversation with Editor Aviation & Defence Universe (ADU) Anuj Prasad takes us through the journey of Desmania, its philosophy, achievements and foray into this critical sector.
ADU. Desmania in an Auto Expo is show casing two exhibits which are just for the aerospace and defence sectors. Does this indicate a foray into these sectors?
Anuj Prasad. This is not the first time. We forayed into the section in 2020. You have to be on a war footing when working for DEFENCE! And this project was exactly on similar lines. One of the most proud and prestigious projects for TEAM Desmania was developing a vehicle, which is meant to serve & protect the nation on international borders. And it gave a greater sense of achievement when our concept was showcased at Def Expo 2020. The client wanted a robust, aggressive and combative appeal for their flat-faced military truck. Desmania design team quickly worked on the brief to deliver exactly as per the client’s requirement. Team Desmania supported the client right from creative concepts to surfacing and the final execution on vehicle with proto parts and all of this was done in straight 14 days of tight deadline.
ADU. Showcased here is this interesting looking motor bike. Can you just introduce it to our audience?
Anuj Prasad. Yes this is an all terrain bike called Ravenix, conceptualized by Desmania. It’s a high performance electric bike that is swift like a Raven and can tread any terrain. It is extremely slim design to remain agile in any situation. Ravenix captures the enigmatic elegance of a raven, combining sharp, angular lines with a sleek, modern silhouette. Its edgy frame mirrors the bird’s powerful wings in motion, while the dark, tech-infused design exudes mystery and sophistication. The futuristic detailing reflects innovation and precision, embodying the seamless blend of nature’s adaptability and advanced engineering. Built for those who dare to explore, Ravenix symbolizes freedom, intelligence, and bold adventure, redefining the electric dirt bike experience with its aerodynamic and tech-forward character.
ADU. How will it be helpful our armed forces which are in all types of terrain from the plains to deserts to high altitudes?
Anuj Prasad. It will be a perfect fit under the MTO of the regiments, in the automobile fleet. It will be an asset to the Army , Navy and Airforce. The Ravenix combines innovation, practicality, and sustainability to offer a unique mobility solution for the Army. Its stealth, versatility, and low-maintenance design make it a valuable asset for enhancing operational efficiency in multi-terrain missions, reinforcing the military’s capabilities in both defensive and offensive roles. Its presence at the Auto Expo highlights Desmania’s commitment to developing solutions that meet the evolving needs of India’s armed forces.
ADU. Can you elaborate on it’s qualities which make it compatible to the roles envisaged for the Indian Armed Forces?
Anuj Prasad. The Ravenix’s design prioritizes adaptability across rugged, uneven, and unpredictable terrains. Whether it’s mountainous regions, dense forests, or sandy deserts, its robust suspension and slim frame ensure optimal performance, maneuverability, and stability. This makes it ideal for quick deployment in diverse geographical conditions. As an electric bike, it provides stealth operations with minimal noise compared to conventional vehicles. Its electric powertrain also eliminates the need for fossil fuels, ensuring cost efficiency and reducing logistical challenges in fuel supply lines during military operations. The bike’s lightweight frame allows for easier transport and handling in high-altitude and difficult-to-access regions. Soldiers can carry or hoist it over obstacles or load it into vehicles, helicopters, or cargo carriers with ease.
This motor bike is engineered to endure extreme conditions, including harsh weather, rough terrains, and sustained operational use. Its sturdy build ensures reliability, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure during critical missions. With its swift and agile performance, it is perfectly suited for reconnaissance, patrolling, and rapid-response operations. It allows soldiers to cover more ground quickly and stealthily, making it an invaluable tool for intelligence-gathering and border surveillance missions.
It’s electric power source aligns with the Army’s sustainability goals. Charging infrastructure can be set up in forward operating bases, leveraging solar or other renewable energy sources, ensuring the bike remains operational even in remote locations. Electric vehicles, including the Ravenix, generally have fewer moving parts, translating into lower maintenance requirements and costs. This reliability is a significant advantage in high-stress, resource-scarce environments. The Ravenix can be customized to suit specific military needs. For instance, it can be equipped with mounts for carrying equipment, weapons, or communication devices, further enhancing its utility for tactical operations.
ADU. Please introduce us to this futuristic looking driving seat you have displayed , which is attracting not only eyeballs but throngs of crowd to the stall ?
Anuj Prasad. The future cockpit concept is a testament to Desmania’s vision of blending innovation with functionality. Its multi-domain applicability, technological sophistication, and forward-thinking design make it a valuable asset for the armed forces, aerospace, and urban air mobility. By addressing the needs of these sectors, the cockpit sets a new benchmark for efficiency, adaptability, and futuristic operations.
For the armed forces, this cockpit can be integrated into fighter jets, transport aircraft, or drones, offering superior operational efficiency. It can enhance vehicle command centers with live feeds, navigation support, and mission planning tools. It will enable better coordination between air and ground forces, fostering interoperability during combat or disaster response missions.
ADU. Can you elaborate on the operational and technical advantages of this cockpit?
Anuj Prasad. The cockpit features an advanced, intuitive design that simplifies complex controls, enabling operators to focus on mission-critical tasks. Streamlined interfaces reduce cognitive load, improving reaction times and decision-making during high-pressure situations in defense and aerospace applications. Its adaptable design makes it suitable for various platforms, including military vehicles, aircraft, and urban air mobility solutions. This versatility ensures seamless integration into a wide range of applications, from combat helicopters to futuristic air taxis.
Equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and heads-up displays (HUD), the cockpit provides real-time data overlays, 360-degree awareness, and critical mission updates. This feature is particularly valuable for defense pilots and commanders, enabling better tactical execution in complex scenarios. Artificial intelligence integration offers predictive analytics, threat detection, and decision-support systems. AI-powered tools help armed forces and aerospace operators anticipate and respond to evolving situations, enhancing safety and mission success.
ADU. Will it have the capability to be tailormade to mission requirements and vehicle types?
Anuj Prasad. The cockpit’s modular architecture allows for customization based on specific mission requirements. For defense applications, it can be tailored with advanced weapon systems, secure communication interfaces, and surveillance controls. For urban air mobility, it can include passenger safety features and automated flight systems. The future cockpit is designed to align with the evolution of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. Its smart systems enable hands-free operation, offering military personnel and aerospace operators greater flexibility and adaptability in critical missions or commercial urban environments.
The concept cockpit incorporates technologies such as touchscreen interfaces for quick and intuitive control, voice-activated commands for hands-free operation, IoT connectivity for real-time data sharing and mission updates and adaptive ergonomics for operator comfort during extended missions. These features ensure the cockpit remains future-ready, adaptable to advancements in both military and civilian applications.
ADU. How will this future cockpit be useful for urban air mobility revolution India wants to be a part of?
Anuj Prasad. Very useful. For urban air mobility, the cockpit offers user-friendly interfaces for pilots and passengers, enhanced navigation tools for congested urban airspaces and safety systems that prioritize collision avoidance and emergency handling. This makes it ideal for air taxis and other next-generation transportation solutions, paving the way for a sustainable and efficient urban mobility ecosystem. The cockpit integrates sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies, supporting the global push for eco-friendly solutions. This aligns with both military and civilian goals of reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence and become a part of the net-zero goals of the world. The future cockpit concept is a testament to Desmania’s vision of blending innovation with functionality. Its multi-domain applicability, technological sophistication, and forward-thinking design make it a valuable asset for the armed forces, aerospace, and urban air mobility. By addressing the needs of these sectors, the cockpit sets a new benchmark for efficiency, adaptability, and futuristic operations.
ADU. You’ve been at the forefront of Indian design for over three decades. How has the design landscape in India evolved?
Anuj Prasad. The Indian design industry has grown immensely, both in scale and scope. Earlier, design was often seen as a luxury or afterthought, but today it’s a critical driver of innovation and business strategy. The Government’s initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India have also propelled the industry by encouraging indigenous design and manufacturing. Desmania is proud to be part of this evolution, contributing to projects that showcase India’s design capabilities on a global stage.
ADU. What’s next for Desmania? Any exciting projects or plans on the horizon?
Anuj Prasad. The future is incredibly exciting. We are focusing on expanding our global footprint and nurturing the next generation of designers through mentorship and training. Additionally, Desmania Innovation Labs LLP is at the forefront of our efforts to push design thinking into new frontiers. Within two years of its founding, we’ve filed over ten patents, and we are just getting started!
ADU. What advice would you give to budding designers looking to make a mark in the industry?
Anuj Prasad. Stay curious and open to learning. Design is about solving problems, and the best solutions come from understanding user needs deeply. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and always keep sustainability in mind. Most importantly, believe in the transformative power of design—it can truly change the world.
As told to Sangeeta Saxena
