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“>
The global shift toward carbon neutrality is reshaping transportation, with India actively advancing zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). A recent webinar co-hosted by ETAuto and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) explored India’s progress and regulatory measures.
Watch the full webinar at: India’s journey toward zero-emission vehicles
Global Insights on ZEV Adoption
Jacob Teter, an independent advisor and co-author of ICCT’s Vision 2050 report, highlighted the impact of supply-side regulations on ZEV adoption and CO2 reductions. European Union CO2 standards and similar measures in the U.S. and Canada have driven EV adoption, showing the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks.
Teter emphasised how emission norms have influenced automakers’ strategies, leading to a projected decline in global road transport emissions for the first time. He explained that ambitious regulatory actions have cut projected fuel consumption significantly and encouraged automakers to pivot towards electrification.
India’s Regulatory Approach
Amit Bhatt, Managing Director of ICCT India, discussed how India can learn from Europe’s experience. He highlighted the importance of Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms in pushing automakers to expand EV portfolios. The upcoming CAFE Phase 3 norms will be crucial in increasing fuel efficiency. Bhatt stressed that regulatory frameworks must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements.
Bhatt noted that while subsidies have helped early adoption, binding regulations are necessary for long-term growth. He emphasized that electrification is key to India’s commitment to doubling energy efficiency by 2030. India’s growing auto market presents an opportunity to lead the EV transition with a balance of incentives and stringent policies.
Freight Electrification Challenges and Opportunities
Freight transport accounts for a significant portion of India’s carbon emissions, with heavy-duty trucks contributing nearly 40-45% of emissions. The government has allocated funds under the PM-eBus scheme for electric truck adoption, but challenges remain, including battery weight, high upfront costs, and charging infrastructure.
Dr. O.P. Agarwal from NITI Aayog emphasised fleet electrification, particularly for freight transport. He stressed the need for strategic charging infrastructure along major highways, using data to map truck stoppage points. Deploying charging hubs at key logistics centers could facilitate a smooth transition to EVs in freight transportation.
The Consumer Perspective
Sherebanu Frosh, an EV owner and program manager at the Raahgiri Foundation, provided a consumer-centric view. While cost savings and environmental benefits are key motivators, she noted that inadequate charging infrastructure remains a barrier. The lack of widespread charging stations, particularly in smaller cities, discourages potential buyers.
Fros suggested improving public awareness, incentives for residential and commercial charging, and ensuring a seamless user experience. She emphasised that policies should include efforts to make charging solutions more accessible to individuals and businesses alike.
The Road Ahead
Panelists agreed that India’s ZEV transition requires a multi-pronged approach involving regulations, financial incentives, and infrastructure development. They emphasised that government policies must be agile, keeping up with advancements in battery technology and consumer behavior trends.
Key takeaways include:
- Stronger CAFE norms to push automakers toward increased EV production.
- Investment in charging infrastructure, especially for freight vehicles and remote locations.
- Fleet electrification focus to maximize impact in high-mileage commercial use.
- Consumer awareness initiatives to drive adoption through better education and incentives.
- Collaboration between private and public sectors to scale up EV production and accessibility.
As India moves toward net-zero targets, collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and consumers will be critical for a cleaner, sustainable transportation ecosystem. The coming years will be crucial in determining the success of India’s EV revolution.
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Freight transport accounts for a significant portion of India’s carbon emissions, with heavy-duty trucks contributing nearly 40-45% of emissions.
“>
The global shift toward carbon neutrality is reshaping transportation, with India actively advancing zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). A recent webinar co-hosted by ETAuto and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) explored India’s progress and regulatory measures. Watch the full webinar at: India’s journey toward zero-emission vehicles
Global Insights on ZEV Adoption
Jacob Teter, an independent advisor and co-author of ICCT’s Vision 2050 report, highlighted the impact of supply-side regulations on ZEV adoption and CO2 reductions. European Union CO2 standards and similar measures in the U.S. and Canada have driven EV adoption, showing the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks.Teter emphasised how emission norms have influenced automakers’ strategies, leading to a projected decline in global road transport emissions for the first time. He explained that ambitious regulatory actions have cut projected fuel consumption significantly and encouraged automakers to pivot towards electrification.
India’s Regulatory Approach
Amit Bhatt, Managing Director of ICCT India, discussed how India can learn from Europe’s experience. He highlighted the importance of Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms in pushing automakers to expand EV portfolios. The upcoming CAFE Phase 3 norms will be crucial in increasing fuel efficiency. Bhatt stressed that regulatory frameworks must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements.Bhatt noted that while subsidies have helped early adoption, binding regulations are necessary for long-term growth. He emphasized that electrification is key to India’s commitment to doubling energy efficiency by 2030. India’s growing auto market presents an opportunity to lead the EV transition with a balance of incentives and stringent policies.
Freight Electrification Challenges and Opportunities
Freight transport accounts for a significant portion of India’s carbon emissions, with heavy-duty trucks contributing nearly 40-45% of emissions. The government has allocated funds under the PM-eBus scheme for electric truck adoption, but challenges remain, including battery weight, high upfront costs, and charging infrastructure.Dr. O.P. Agarwal from NITI Aayog emphasised fleet electrification, particularly for freight transport. He stressed the need for strategic charging infrastructure along major highways, using data to map truck stoppage points. Deploying charging hubs at key logistics centers could facilitate a smooth transition to EVs in freight transportation.
The Consumer Perspective
Sherebanu Frosh, an EV owner and program manager at the Raahgiri Foundation, provided a consumer-centric view. While cost savings and environmental benefits are key motivators, she noted that inadequate charging infrastructure remains a barrier. The lack of widespread charging stations, particularly in smaller cities, discourages potential buyers.Fros suggested improving public awareness, incentives for residential and commercial charging, and ensuring a seamless user experience. She emphasised that policies should include efforts to make charging solutions more accessible to individuals and businesses alike.
The Road Ahead
Panelists agreed that India’s ZEV transition requires a multi-pronged approach involving regulations, financial incentives, and infrastructure development. They emphasised that government policies must be agile, keeping up with advancements in battery technology and consumer behavior trends.
Key takeaways include:
- Stronger CAFE norms to push automakers toward increased EV production.
- Investment in charging infrastructure, especially for freight vehicles and remote locations.
- Fleet electrification focus to maximize impact in high-mileage commercial use.
- Consumer awareness initiatives to drive adoption through better education and incentives.
- Collaboration between private and public sectors to scale up EV production and accessibility.
As India moves toward net-zero targets, collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and consumers will be critical for a cleaner, sustainable transportation ecosystem. The coming years will be crucial in determining the success of India’s EV revolution.