The world is witnessing electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Improved air quality (zero tailpipe emissions) is a key benefit of EVs. With over 22 million EVs, China is leading this revolution. Studies have shown that the scale of EV adoption in China has helped improve air quality in Wuhan, Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Many Indian cities, including Delhi, have unhealthy air. As an evolving EV market, what could India learn from China?
As India chases its commitment of EV30@30, the absence of specific targets and mandates, as seen in China, providing demand assurance to manufacturers, is strongly reflected in slow adoption of electric cars and commercial vehicles.
India's EV promotion policies are comprehensive - albeit reserved in scale and budget - covering all key aspects of supply, demand, and infra development. But the scale and pace of EV adoption is lagging compared to global players. To see immediate air quality improvements through EV adoption, India will require ambitious adoption targets and mandates, supported by city-level implementation programmes.
