Daily Hot Topic
Topic : E-Mobility in India

GS-3 Mains  : Economy

Context:

• “e-mobility R&D Roadmap for India” launched by the Principal Scientific Adviser in 2024.

About the Roadmap:

• Identifies R&D priorities for achieving global leadership in e-mobility by 2029.
• Focuses on four key areas:
  • Energy Storage Cells (batteries)
  • EV Aggregates (electric vehicle components)
  • Materials & Recycling
  • Charging & Refueling Infrastructure

India’s E-Mobility Targets:

• 45% reduction in emission intensity by 2030.
• Net-zero emissions by 2070.
• Increase EV sales penetration:
  • 30% private cars
  • 70% commercial cars
  • 40% buses
  • 80% two- and three-wheelers by 2030.

Key R&D Areas:

• High-risk, high-reward areas:
  • Fundamental science behind advanced materials like Graphene.
  • New battery chemistries and EV powertrain components.
• Production Engineering:
  • Level 3 & 4 Bill of Materials (BOM) items like Wide Band Gap devices and Fuel Cell membranes. (Focus on domestic manufacturing)

Government Initiatives:

• National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) – 2013
  • Aims to achieve national fuel security through hybrid and electric vehicles.
• Faster Adoption and Manufacture of Electric Vehicles (FAME) India Scheme – 2015
  • Promotes manufacturing and adoption of EVs through subsidies and incentives.
• GST Reduction on EVs: Reduced from 12% to 5%.
• Charging Infrastructure Expansion:
  • To address range anxiety and encourage EV adoption.
• Incentives for EV Manufacturers:
  • Promote domestic production of EVs and components.
• Battery Swapping Policy:
  • Exploring quick battery exchange stations for faster turnaround.
• PLI Scheme for ACC Battery Storage – 2021
  • Enhance manufacturing capabilities for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) batteries in India.

Challenges in EV Adoption:

• High Initial Cost: EVs are expensive compared to traditional vehicles due to battery costs.
• Limited Charging Infrastructure: Lack of charging stations discourages potential buyers.
• Range Anxiety: Fear of running out of battery before reaching a charging station.
• Battery Technology & Supply Chain: Reliance on imported batteries increases cost and vulnerability.
• Consumer Awareness & Education: Lack of knowledge about EVs and their benefits.
• Socioeconomic Factors: Income levels, preferences, and infrastructure disparities affect adoption rates.

Way Ahead:

• Collaborative efforts from policymakers, industry, and other stakeholders are needed to create an enabling environment for widespread EV adoption.
• Addressing these challenges is crucial for India to achieve a cleaner and greener transportation system for a sustainable future.