Manufacturing technology startup Smart Auto Systems receives funding from Mitsui

Smart Auto Systems, an automotive technology startup based out of Hyderabad, has received INR20 crore Series A funding from the Japanese conglomerate Mitsui Group. Started in 2015, the startup is expected to use the fresh cash to further build out its technology platform, and expand its geographical presence. Smart Auto Systems primarily provides technology support for the repair and maintenance function in the automotive cycle. With the completion of the investment round, three members of Mitsui Group have joined the board of directors of the startup.

The founders of Smart Auto Systems, Vijay Gummadi and Venu Donepudi, are also the founders of CarZ, a Hyderabad-based multi-brand car repair and maintenance services startup. It is the parent company of Smart Auto Systems, and had raised $5 million from IndoUS Venture Partners in 2011 as its biggest investment round till date. Besides, CarZ has seen a periodic infusion of funds, with the latest one of INR3 crore taking place two months back. The startup competes with the likes of Carnation Auto, the Jagdish Khattar-promoted independent multi-brand automobile solutions provider.