Surat Students Build AI-Powered Bike ‘Garuda’ from Scrap

Surat, Gujarat — In a shining example of innovation, three mechanical engineering students from Bhagwan Mahavir University in Surat have developed an AI-powered bike named ‘Garuda’, combining scrap materials and cutting-edge technology. The bike, which is 50% built from scrap and 50% with custom-built components, is designed to operate through voice commands and has the potential to become a fully driverless vehicle in the future.

The brainchild of Shivam Maurya, Gurpreet Arora, and Ganesh Patil, this smart bike showcases how Indian youth are pushing the boundaries of engineering and artificial intelligence. Built at a cost of just ₹1.80 lakh, ‘Garuda’ integrates Raspberry Pi, a compact computer that acts as the command center for its autonomous functions.

“It took us nearly a year to develop Garuda. The bike can respond to voice commands, such as ‘stop three feet away’, and it will automatically halt—no need to hit the brakes,” said Shivam Maurya, one of the student inventors.

Garuda is built with two advanced sensors capable of assessing road conditions and the proximity of other vehicles. When a vehicle enters its 12-feet range, the bike automatically slows down. If a vehicle is within 3 feet, the bike comes to a full stop — responding intelligently to commands. This feature enhances road safety and minimizes the risk of accidents.

Incorporating both technology and convenience, the bike also features: a full touchscreen display with GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, music, and calling functions, front and rear cameras for 360° road view, a wireless mobile charging system, two driving modes: 220 km range in Eco Mode and 160 km in Sport Mode, and fast charging lithium battery that powers up fully in just two hours

Though currently designed for use with a rider, the team has ambitious plans to make Garuda completely driverless using WiFi and remote-controlled systems. With further improvements, the students aim to remove the need for human intervention altogether.

“Driverless bikes are a real possibility,” said automobile expert Vinod Desai. “Garuda is a strong step forward, combining practical design with futuristic thinking.”

Garuda is a testament to the spirit of ‘Best from the Waste’ — where discarded materials are transformed into innovation. The students’ achievement is not just a technological feat but also a proud moment for Surat, known traditionally for diamonds and textiles, and now making a mark in AI and mobility innovation.

The invention is already garnering attention from the academic and tech communities, positioning Surat as a rising hub for young tech talent.