Edouard Nicolaÿ: from top-level rugby to vehicle electrification

A former top-level rugby player and 2011 Bachelor Management graduate, Edouard Nicolaÿ is now transforming urban mobility with CirculaCar, a company specializing in vehicle electrification. Between ecological commitment and responsible entrepreneurship, he shares a journey that blends passion, resilience and innovation.

Beyond the classroom, Edouard immersed himself in community life by joining, the Bachelor's rugby team. Edouard's relationships with members of the team are not limited to sports. The bonds he forges with his teammates over training sessions and competitions become so strong that he continues to keep in touch with them, even several years after the experience.

"We meet up regularly with the team, especially for events like the Six Nations matches. These moments of exchange keep the spirit of camaraderie and sharing alive."

He emphasizes the importance of the TBS Education network in his career. For him, the school's reputation and network are undeniable assets that have helped him land internships and build his professional credibility.

After several experiences in sport and industry, Edouard co-founded CirculaCar in 2024, a project born of his chance meeting with Geoffrey Pauwels, an engineer specializing in industrial innovation, now CEO of the company. Together, they tackled a key problem: extending the life of combustion-powered vehicles through electrification.

"Why change the whole vehicle when only the engine is the problem?"

CirculaCar embodies its circular economy values. The company designs reusable batteries using local and sustainable materials, thus reducing their environmental impact. The company distinguishes itself by designing and manufacturing LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery packs, a strategic choice to limit the use of rare metals.

"Our batteries are Made in France: virtually all parts are manufactured and assembled locally".

The batteries are repairable and connected, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional models. In particular, they enable their condition to be monitored in real time and only faulty cells replaced, thus reducing waste and costs for users.

For Edouard, this adventure reflects his core values. Through CirculaCar, he is proving that it is possible to combine entrepreneurship, innovation and ecological responsibility.

"We firmly believe in sobriety and reuse. Every action, every innovation must be thought out to maximize its impact while minimizing the resources needed."

For Edouard, entrepreneurship is above all a story of encounters and pragmatism: he encourages students and young graduates to explore their network and dare to take the plunge.

"You don't have to wait for the perfect idea to get started. The most important thing is to surround yourself with the right people."

His vision of success also includes a reflection on everyday life. A fervent advocate of a more sober lifestyle, he himself applies simple gestures such as waste sorting, the use of soft transport, and reduced consumption.

"Everyone can take action at their own level, by rethinking their habits and making the most of what already exists".

Contact Edouard via TBSocial Network to :

• Ask questions about setting up a company
• Set up an innovative project: innovative French industrial, ecological and circular.
• Combine sport, studies and professional life