Bengaluru-based startup BYTES has secured funding from WTFund, an investment firm led by Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, to develop an AI-driven safety system for two-wheelers. The funding amount has not been disclosed, but it will be used to build an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) aimed at reducing accidents through real-time hazard detection.
The AI-powered system uses computer vision to detect potential road hazards and instantly alert riders, helping them avoid accidents. “Our goal is to ensure no two-wheeler accident leads to a preventable loss of life,” said Prakhar Agrawal, co-founder and CEO of BYTES. The company plans to integrate this technology directly into motorcycles and scooters.
BYTES has already started pilot programs with two-wheeler manufacturers to test the system in real-world conditions. Additionally, the startup is close to finalizing its pre-seed funding round within the next two months, which will help speed up product development and market launch.
The push for advanced safety solutions comes at a critical time. According to road safety data, motorcycles and scooters are involved in 60% of the over 50 million road accidents worldwide each year. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 90% of these accidents are caused by human error, underscoring the need for smarter safety technologies.
While car safety technologies have seen significant advancements, the two-wheeler industry has been slower to adopt AI-driven solutions. Many manufacturers have introduced basic features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS), but comprehensive ADAS for two-wheelers remains a largely unexplored market.
WTFund, which chose BYTES as part of its 2024 investment cohort, focuses on early-stage tech startups across sectors like fintech, healthcare, and enterprise software. This investment reflects its commitment to supporting innovative technologies with the potential to make a real-world impact.
BYTES’ AI-powered safety system could mark a significant step forward in reducing accidents and saving lives on the road.
