August 2019

“Creating an open architecture infrastructure for accelerating electric mobility is the next big thing, but the idea is not going to be limited to a product — it will encompass the entire mobility ecosystem, involving multiple stakeholders across OEMs, governments, cities, public transport and technology companies. Providing energy as a service and expanding from charging and swapping infrastructure to mobility solutions and core technologies in batteries and powertrains will drive electric mobility in India that can be replicated globally.”

Evolution Ahead

Overdrive

There are also new names in the pure-electric space like Revolt Motors – headed by Rahul Sharma (co-founder of Micromax), Sun Mobility – co-founded by Chetan Maini (founder of Reva electric), Sahara Evols – headed by Subrata Roy. Companies like Ather Energy, Hero Electric, Twenty Two KYMCO, Okinawa Autotech and Tork Motors, who already established their presence in the nascent electric vehicle space, are now developing new-generation offerings with longer riding and driving range, swappable batteries and also a well spread EV charging network.

A billion to back a billion-dollar idea

“Creating an open architecture infrastructure for accelerating e-mobility is definitely the next big thing, but the idea is not going to be limited to a product—it will encompass the entire mobility ecosystem, involving multiple stakeholders across OEMs.”

Singapore’s Shado Group Launches Electric Three-Wheeler in India

Mercom

Singapore-based Shado Group, provider of electric vehicle technology and charging infrastructure, has unveiled an affordable, low voltage, and instantly chargeable electric three-wheelers under the brand name, Erick. The company plans to manufacture up to 1,000 units of these three-wheelers per month for the Indian market. The vehicles are designed and manufactured by Bangalore-based Adarin Engineering Technologies following a merger with Shado group.

HPCL plans rapid vehicle-battery swap program

EQ International

Hindustan Petroleum Corp is reportedly planning a pilot program for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December. Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, Indian oil refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp is planning a pilot program for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter.

Auto: So Near, Yet So Far

BW Businessworld

Building a gasoline-powered car, a complicated affair at best, has always been the prerogative of big brands with deep pockets which have been adept in assembly line operations. But all that is set to change as a young breed of emerging players and startups are coming up with zero-emission vehicles and governments are going head over heels to woo them with of sops and subsidies. The key distinction between conventional fossil fuel guzzling vehicles and new-age electric vehicles (EV) is that an internal combustion engine (ICE) car has around 10,000 moving parts whereas an average EV has around 20.

Karnataka Govt to set up EV business cluster for startups; approaches stake holders for discussion

The Indian Wire

The government of Karnataka has taken a step to accelerate startups with the services based on electrical vehicles in the state. The government has planned to build a state-backed EV cluster for businesses and startups, cited Inc42. The development was observed when the industries department of the government approached various stakeholders to establish the first EV cluster in the state.

Hindustan Petroleum plans rapid vehicle-battery swap programme

Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, Indian oil refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp is planning a pilot programme for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter.

Hindustan Petroleum outlets may roll out battery swapping program for e-vehicles

The Print

Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, Indian oil refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp is planning a pilot program for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter.

Rapid vehicle-battery swap scheme planned by HPCL

Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, state-run refiner Hindustan Petroleum is planning a pilot programme for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter.

HPCL to begin battery swapping at outlets

Indian startups, including Sun Mobility and Lithion Power, are current- ly providing battery swap- ping services for two- and three-wheelers and some buses. Last year, Finnish utility Fortum Oyj’s India unit and Sweden’s Clean Motion launched a battery swapping pilot near New Delhi. HPCL also isn’t the only fossil fuel-focused company adapting to the influx of electric vehicles. State-run NTPC and Bharat Heavy Electricals have also announced plans to set up electric vehicle chargers.

HPCL to begin battery swapping at outlets

The Asian Age

Indian startups, including Sun Mobility and Lithion Power, are currently providing battery swap- ping services for two- and three-wheelers and some buses. Last year, Finnish utility Fortum Oyj’s India unit and Sweden’s Clean Motion launched a battery swapping pilot near New Delhi. HPCL also isn’t the only fossil fuel-focused company adapting to the influx of electric vehicles. State-run NTPC and Bharat Heavy Electricals have also announced plans to set up electric vehicle chargers.

HPCL to begin battery swapping at outlets

Financial Chronicle

Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, oil refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp (HPCL) is planning a pilot programme for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter.

Indian Oil Refiner Plans Rapid Vehicle-Battery Swap Program

HPCL plans rapid vehicle-battery swap program

Bracing for a future with less-polluting fuels, oil refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp is planning a pilot program for swapping batteries of electric two- and three-wheelers at its outlets by December, according to people familiar with the matter. The initiative is aimed at helping the company maintain its grip on a segment of the mobility market that’s rapidly shifting to cleaner power sources, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans aren’t public. The ultimate capacity of the program hasn’t been decided.

Expecting boom in e-vehicle industry, Karnataka plans cluster

Having taken the lead in introducing an electric vehicle policy in the country two years ago and foreseeing a boom in e-vehicles, Karnataka is now planning to build an EV ecosystem. The industries department is holding advanced-level talks with stakeholders to establish an EV cluster. Sources in the department claim 4-5 prominent EV-manufacturing companies have showed positive intent to set up their units. “We are hoping many more to follow suit,” said a senior official.

How safe are electric vehicles?

News Highlights from India’s Renewable Energy Sector in July 2019

Mercom

The month of July was filled with significant happenings in all segments of the renewable industry. While the biggest event of the month was the introduction of the Budget 2019, numerous other developments in the sector made the headlines during the month.

Budget blues for ICE industry, green lightfor EV makers

India Auto INC, which is experiencing a downturn like never before, was expecting a growth catalyst from the Union Budget 2019 but has been left standing in its tracks.

Bengaluru-based biotech startup Pandorum Technologies wins the Entrepreneurship World Cup (India)

Yourstory

Biotech startup Pandorum Technologies, which focuses on tissue engineering, took home the grand prize of Rs 5 lakh as it won first place at the 2019 Entrepreneurship World Cup (India), a series of the global pitch competition. The startup will, in November, represent India at the global competition in Riyadh along with the two runners-up.

For Piaggio, electric is an opportunity not an obligation

When Diego Graffi took charge as CEO and MD of Piaggio Vehicles two years ago, his top priority was to help out in “an effective transition” to Bharat Stage VI emission norms. This would extend to the powertrains for both the company’s commercial vehicle and two-wheeler businesses. Graffi is doubtless pleased that Piaggio is on track with its plans even while readying its new foray into the electric space with the Ape City.

Industry

Charging stns for pvt vehicles soon

By the end of this year, Goa will have charging stations for electric vehicles across the state. Housed at the various Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd (KTCL) bus stands, these charging stations will not only be available for use by KTCL for its electric buses, but also to the public for their private vehicles. “We have proposed 25 charging points at all the bus stands across Goa. The main charging stations will be at our depot,” said KTCL managing director Venancio Furtado.

Ahmedabad to get 500 e-buses soon: Rupani

In a major leap towards greener and cleaner public transport, Ahmedabad will soon have 500 electric buses (E-Buses) plying on its roads, the Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced on Thursday here.

Amit Shah flags off first fleet of eco-friendly electric buses in Ahmedabad

The ride in public transport buses in Ahmedabad will now be smoother and eco-friendly as Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the afternoon today flagged off the first fleet of eco-friendly electric buses in the city. These electric buses will be operated on major junctions on regular intervals from today onwards.

Auto sector crisis worst since December 2000

“I am neither able to pay salary to my workers nor repay the bank loan. The situation is becoming worse. Bankers are not prepared to accept the reality that there is no business but threaten action for defaulting,” says an auto valve components manufacturer at Chennai’s industrial hub – Ambattur.

First gear: Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s e-buses on the run

DNA

“Electric Vehicles (EVs) will make a qualitative change to the lives of people,” Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Thursday at a function in Sola to roll out the first fleet of electric buses in the city. Under the Faster Adaption and Manufacture of (Hybrid) and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, Gujarat will get 550 electric buses, with Ahmedabad alone getting 300 buses. Surat will get 150 buses, while Vadodara and Rajkot will get 50 buses each.

Centre’s EV push faces logjam as companies seek infrastructure first

DNA

While the prolonged industry slowdown has currently helped the automotive industry in keeping electric vehicle (EV) transition in the slow lane, industry experts and insiders say it will continue to remain so until the government and the industry continue playing chicken and egg game.

Greater Noida gets its first electric car charging station

With an aim to put an end to the constant battle against air pollution and encourage people to ditch petrol-based and use electric vehicles, the Indian Oil in collaboration with National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has set up an electric vehicle charging station in Greater Noida.

Declining car sales reflect a big aspirational shift

Forget for a minute the hand-wringing in India over declining vehicle sales. Worldwide, a car is no longer a cultural icon of desire for emerging generations. The numbers are there to prove that. According to a report from Germany’s Center for Automotive Research (CAR), the world car market is about to take its biggest hit since the financial crisis of 2008, with sales declining by more than 4 million in 2019 alone.

IOCL to tie up with a global start-up to produce EV batteries

State-run oil refiner and marketer Indian Oil Corporation Ltd is foraying into energy storage and batteries for running electric vehicles (EVs) in partnership with an overseas start-up, using a non-lithium ion raw material available locally, Chairman Sanjiv Singh said today in Mumbai.

Goa likely to have e-charging stations for private vehicles

By the end of this year, Goa will have charging stations for electric vehicles across the state. Housed at the various bus stands of the KTC, these charging stations will not only be used to power the electric buses of the Kadamba transport corporation limited (KTC) but also by the public for their private vehicles. “We have proposed 25 charging points at all the bus stands across Goa. The main charging stations will be at our depot,” said KTC managing director, Venancio Furtado.

Electric vehicles to cost the same as internal combustion engine counterparts in next 3-4 years: Amitabh Kant

Observing that India has 28 cars for every 1,000 people, much lower as compared to the US or Europe which have 980 and 850 cars for 1,000 people respectively, Kant said this means as India transits towards urbanisation the future will all be electric, shared and connected.

Lost on the way: Why Bengaluru’s e-bus project remains a non-starter

The delay was caused primarily due to former transport minister DC Thammanna’s insistence that buses be purchased and not leased. BMTC lost the Centre’s Rs 75-crore subsidy as the deadline for phase 1 of FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India) scheme by the department of heavy industry, expired on March 31, 2019. Thammanna cancelled tender for 80 buses, citing loopholes and transferred several officials.

Substantive planning needed for introduction of electric buses

The ridership in Gurugaman, the city bus service, has been growing steadily. This is welcome news. The bus service will complete one year of operations next month. A couple of weeks ago, the ridership crossed over 50,000 passengers per day. Incidentally, this is more than double the ridership in Gurugram’s Metro rail system — the Rapid Metro.

Chennai gets its first electric public transport bus: More than 500 to follow across TN

In a move which is inclined towards reducing air pollution, the Tamil Nadu government on Monday unveiled a battery-powered electric air-conditioned bus that would be operated on specific routes by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation. Built by Hinduja Group flagship firm Ashok Leyland, the roll-out of the bus comes against the backdrop of the state government signed a memorandum of understanding with the London-based ‘C-40 Cities Climate Leadership Group” in March 2018.

Bhopal to deploy 400 EV charging points by year-end

India’s Bhopal will deploy 400 smart poles to enable charging points for electric vehicles (EV) by year end, according to the top official. “150 smart poles have already been installed while another 250 are expected to be completed by year-end and will have Wi-Fi hotspots, charging points for electrical vehicles, weather sensors street lights and signage,” Tarun Pithode, Bhopal’s District Collector and Smart City Chairman told ETTelecom.

Auto companies ride job losses to slow electric vehicle push

DNA India

The worst slowdown in the past two decades seems to have come as a blessing in disguise for the automotive industry. While the automakers were fighting against electric vehicles, which was given a major push in the Union Budget, the continued fall in automotive sales during June and July helped them in putting their case with more strength.

EESL to set up 1,000 EV charging stations, hopes to deploy 5,000 cars

State-run Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), which was tasked with procuring 10,000 electric cars for government use, has said that it could procure and deploy only 1,500 cars largely because of the lack of charging stations. The company now plans to address this issue by setting up nearly 1,000 charging stations, and is confident of deploying around 5,000 cars for various government departments by next year.

MSRTC to ply Pune-Mumbai e-buses after proper tests

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation would start plying e-buses from Mumbai to the city and Nashik after proper studies and tests, considering the ghat sections along the two routes. “We have recently floated tender for 200 e-buses. A private party will run them on lease. The routes will be decided after the tender is awarded. All buses will be air-conditioned,” said Ranjit Singh Deol, the managing director of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC).

Will regulate e-rickshaws to avoid traffic chaos: Delhi govt

The Indian Express

Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot Monday said that the Delhi government will chalk out ways to regulate the movement of e-rickshaws. According to data shared by the government, there are 71,092 registered e-rickshaws in the capital, but there is no estimate of the unregistered ones.

FM announces measures to boost auto sector

Government will consider scrappage policy, announces additional 15% depreciation on all vehiclesThe finance minister has announced measure to boost economy, while also announced significant measures to support auto sector witnessing large decline in sales across the segments. The finance minister has announced that the BS IV vehicles purchased till 31 March 2020 will remain operational for entire period of registration.

Auto LPG body seeks alternative fuel policy, lower GST rates

The Indian Auto LPG Coalition (IAC) has sought framing of an alternative fuel policy in the country. The coalition is the nodal body for the promotion of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or cooking gas) in India. “In addition to promoting electric vehicles (EVs), the Centre should also focus on formulating an alternative fuel policy to bridge the gap till EVs can be proliferated,” Suyash Gupta, Director General of the IAC, told BusinessLine.

Tamil Nadu rolls out first electric bus

Equipped with surveillance cameras and several safety features, Tamil Nadu’s first air-conditioned green bus, which is noiseless, smokeless and vibration-free, was rolled out on Monday. The attractive electric bus, painted green, may tempt many vehicle owners to sacrifice their vehicles to hop a tranquil ride on it in the city.

After Electric 3-Wheelers Failed, Coimbatore Will Try Electric 4-Wheelers For Waste Collection

India Times

Indian government is repeatedly addressing the dire need for electric vehicles in the country. So much so, that several operations carried out by various civil authorities are now relying on electric vehicles. Coimbatore had taken a similar stance last year, appointing 50 electric three-wheelers for waste collection in the city. The plan apparently didn’t work out, mainly due to the inefficiency of these vehicles.

Indian firms looking at fresh Rs 5 lakh crore investment in natural gas: Pradhan

India’s oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan today said domestic companies are looking at fresh investments worth a mammoth Rs 5 lakh crore in the natural gas sector. This comes amid last week’s stimulus package announced by the government and calls from India Inc for further measures to boost investor sentiment.

Centre Nod To NMMT For 100 More E-buses

The central government has sanctioned an additional 100 electric buses for Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport. NMMT recently received one electric bus from the first lot of 10 buses that it is to get from a total of 30 buses. Former municipal commissioner Ramaswamy N had written to the central government, seeking 200 electric buses under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (and Hybrid) Vehicles (FAME) scheme. NMMT received a letter this week about the sanctioned 100 buses.

Delhi: How your green ride is turning air grey

Delhi has over 1.5 lakh e-rickshaws. They are eligible for government subsidy, being considered an environment-friendly mode of last-mile connectivity, but may actually not be as green as thought.

Auto industry welcomes government steps to revive sales

Senior executives of automobile manufacturing companies and various lobby groups have welcomed the steps announced by the union government on Friday to arrest the downturn in the sector. Most believe the liquidity situation at both the dealer and customer end will ease after the recent announcements.

I am the minister, NITI Aayog does not have authority to set EV deadline: Gadkari

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highway of India, Nitin Gadkari has cleared the air that there will no ban on petrol and diesel vehicles in the country. He further added that the government has not set any deadline for automakers to switch to electric vehicles. “I am the minister, NITI Aayog does not have the authority to set EV deadline,” said Gadkari at the Mindmine summit. Gadkari’s viewpoint seems to differ from Niti Aayog’s ambitious plan for a transition to electric mobility.

NITI Aayog at the forefront of Centre’s move to promote electric vehicles

The Centre’s primary think tank NITI Aayog has been at the receiving end, mostly on issues linked to electric vehicles (EVs), over the last few days. If Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Friday that it was the mandate of his ministry and not that of NITI Aayog to take a call on vehicle technology, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had earlier stated that the government viewpoint did not always match that of the think tank.

West Bengal planning to introduce policy for EV charging stations

West Bengal Urban Development Ministry is planning to introduce policy for electric vehicle charging stations. West Bengal government is also planning to introduce 500 electric buses under the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles in India) phase II and tenders have been floated for this.

Inside India’s Messy Electric Vehicle Revolution

New York Times

It’s the morning rush hour at Nawada metro station in India’s capital, and dozens of electric rickshaws are jockeying to get through the narrow gate into the parking lot. Once inside, each one stops to let its four or five passengers off before squeezing back out to pick up more riders.

650 electric buses to hit urban roads of 13 UP districts

In an attempt to improve public transport and curb air pollution caused by vehicle emission, the UP government has decided to introduce battery-driven electric buses in the urban areas of as many as 13 districts. Centre has already approved a budget of around Rs 900 crore for the purpose and the process of tendering has been initiated, according to official sources at Uttar Pradesh Urban Transport Directorate.

Transport ministry wants lower GST on hybrid vehicles

The transport ministry has written to the finance ministry asking for the goods and services tax on hybrid vehicles to be reduced from 28%. This comes after the GST Council, the apex decision-making body for the tax, slashed the rate for electric vehicles to 5% last month in a bid to boost cleaner sources of mobility.

UP designates PMs Varanasi, nine others as ‘Model Electric Mobility Cities’, aims for 1 million EVs by 2024

Ten cities in Uttar Pradesh, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency of Varanasi, have been designated as ‘Model Electric Mobility Cities’ in a policy being rolled out by the Yogi Adityanath government that aims to attract investments worth Rs 40,000 crore into electric vehicle manufacturing by 2024. Uttar Pradesh, which touts itself as an automobile manufacturing hub with plants of India Yamaha Motor, Honda and New Holland in Greater Noida, and TATA Motors’ unit in Lucknow, is rolling out attractive incentives for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers and aims to create 50,000 new jobs in the area.

EVs at the cusp of next wave of growth, thanks to the Govt’s Development Agenda

The electric vehicle (EV) market in India has been riding a wave of growth in recent times. The ambitious goals of EV manufacturers have made the industry ripe for disruption. This has been complemented by multiple favourable initiatives by the government.

Gujarat to plug into electric revolution with 1 lakh vehicles

Powered by the Centre’s cue, Gujarat is expected to charge up its clean-energy push. The state government plans to come out with a policy soon announcing huge incentives for using electric vehicles. The move aims to have one lakh electric vehicles on road by 2022.

Renewables unlikely to overtake coal for power generation, says CIL chief

Buinsess Standard

Coal India Chairman Anil Kumar Jha on Wednesday said renewables are unlikely to surpass coal as the major source for power generation in the near future and asserted that India’s energy migration scenario will be different compared to many other countries. State-owned Coal India accounts for nearly 83 per cent of the country’s coal production.

For electric vehicles, there is no one-size-fits-all solution

Globally, electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain in popularity. As of 2018, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 50 lakh electric passenger cars were in operation, with approximately 52 lakh charging points worldwide.

No hike in vehicle registration fee! Govt puts plan on hold amid slowdown

The government has decided to review the hike in vehicle registration fee it had proposed last month. This review comes amid slowdown in the auto industry. The auto sector lobbied against the increase in registration fee in the midst of the worst slowdown in nearly two decades.

Waive parking charges for electric vehicles, UT told

The ministry of road transport and highways has asked the UT administration to give incentives for electric vehicles (EVs) like waiving of toll and parking charges and issuing green registration number plates. The ministry, in a communication, has sought to know steps initiated to promote electric vehicles in the city, seeking the reply by August 31.

Positive Effects Of This Year’s Budget On Electric Cars

Over Drive

The government, with its recommendations in the Union Budget 2019, has made its stand on the Indian automobile industry quite clear. It wants electric vehicles to be the focal point of growth in this sphere, wants to promote local component manufacturing and is keener on maintaining this industry’s long-term growth prospects.

Vehicle test facility, engineering course add to electric vehicle ecosystem

As automotive OEM companies take calibrated steps towards electric-mobility, the ecosystem around them is getting ready for e-mobility. From industry research bodies to engineering colleges and academia, all stakeholders seem to be working out plans to prepare for the electrification journey.

No plans to set auto firms a deadline for shift to EVs: Gadkari

The government has no specific deadline in mind for automakers to switch to electric mobility or ban production of petrol and diesel vehicles, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Wednesday. “The shift to electric vehicles will happen in natural progression,” road transport and highways minister Gadkari said in response to a question regarding government think tank NITI Aayog’s proposal to ban production of conventional two-wheelers under 150cc by 2025 and three-wheelers by 2023.

What EV push? Govt may give into automaker’s demands due to sector slump

Moneycontrol

Contrary to the government’s intent of quick electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the country, it is likely to be lax on enforcement, citing the auto sector’s dismal performance, reports the Times of India. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the report.

Give auto industry space to adjust to current slowdown. Electric vehicles will emerge without government curbs on petrol/diesel engines

Government’s decision to backtrack from earlier policy moves to disincentivise internal combustion (IC) engine vehicles to give a boost to electric vehicles will do a world of good to the embattled auto industry which is in the midst of a prolonged slump. Earlier, government was mulling a ban on IC engine three-wheelers from 2023 and two-wheelers below 150cc from 2025. Other measures like a steep increase in the registration fee of IC engine vehicles have also reportedly been put on hold.

How India Inc is cleaning up its act

Mahendra Singhi has some interesting stories to tell about what could be a very boring subject: cement. About how he met Nobel-winning climate guru Al Gore during a hastily planned trip to Washington in 1999. That’s where he first learnt about carbon credits or a mechanism that allows companies to buy carbon offsets from outside projects which avoid greenhouse gas emissions.

Low-quality Chinese batteries could slow down India’s EV drive

Chinese manufacturers are dumping low-quality battery packs for electric vehicles (EVs) in India, two officials aware of the matter said, similar to the way rejected solar modules were sold here at a discount. While the Chinese government has nudged battery makers to move up the value chain by calibrating subsidies, manufacturers of older models are finding few takers there.

Tirupati: Temple city to get 50 e-buses soon

The Hans India

Giving a major push to the use of electric vehicles for which the future belongs, about 50 e-buses will soon hit the roads of pilgrim city as part of the government’s initiative towards electric vehicle policy. It was said to be planning to buy about 1,000 e-buses on the whole and during the first phase about 350 buses will be purchased for major cities like Tirupati, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Amaravati. Of them Tirupati will get 50 buses.

Electric 3-wheelers soon at Metro stations

The Hans India

In a bid to provide last-mile connectivity, the Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd (HMRL) and ETO Motors Private Limited have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deploy electric 3-wheelers on the station premises. As many as 25 vibrant yellow color electric three-wheelers (KYTO) would be launched at Metro stations. The uniqueness of this project is the allocation of 50% of vehicles for BPO women.

India to become world’s third-largest car market by 2025: Report

India will become the third-largest car market in the world with 7.4 million vehicles, claims a report by Goldman Sachs. The report claims that car ownership in most economies starts gaining momentum when per-capita incomes move into the range of $10,000-20,000 range. By 2025, many developing countries will reach that level for the first time.

In breather to auto firms, govt to go slow on e-vehicle push

Amid protests from the auto industry, the government is likely to go slow on pushing electric mobility for the next few months, arguing that it has to be sympathetic to the downturn that has gripped the auto industry. The proposal to ban the sale of internal combustion engine (ICE) three-wheelers after 2023 and two-wheelers of engine capacity up to 150cc is also not being pushed aggressively, government sources said.

Hero Electric launches two high-end e-scooters priced below Rs 70,000

One of the oldest and largest electric vehicle makers in the country, Hero Electric on Monday launched two new e-scooters — Optima ER and Nyx ER (Extended Range) — expanding its range of heavy duty and high-speed e-scooters in India. The Optima ER and Nyx ER are now available across company’s dealerships, priced at Rs 68,721 and Rs 69,754, respectively.

The steps needed for increased adoption of electric vehicles

Over time, it’s getting clearer that the government envisions India as a global hub of manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs). One of the main reasons for this EV push is concerns about the rising air pollution across urban centres. According to a recent report, 14 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India. The sources of air pollution are multiple—vehicular emissions, stubble burning, dust generated from construction sites, and poor waste management. A recent study also revealed that life expectancy in India has gone down by 2.6 years due to diseases caused by air pollution.

How India’s EV dream may be scuttling its gas game plan

Earlier this year, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) bid out 228 geographical areas to companies for setting up CNG stations along with a network of piped natural gas (PNG) for supply to homes. The bids for city gas distribution (CGD) networks covered 406 of the country’s 725 districts across 27 states and Union territories. Several companies — including state-run Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum, and private players like Adani Gas, besides the Philippines’ AG&P — have bid aggressively for these rights.

Where’s the Money for EV Charging at Fuel Pumps?

The government’s aim to shift to electric-only mobility by 2030 is facing roadblocks from its own ranks. While India hasn’t made much of a progress on charging so far, as a prerequisite to make electric vehicles (EVs) popular, the government is planning to set up charging stations at petrol pumps.

India needs $500-700 billion in renewable energy: IEEFA

India will require $500-700 billion in renewable energy and supporting grid investment over the coming decade in order to meet its renewable energy targets, the US-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) said on Friday. In a note titled ‘International Capital Awaits Robust Policy Environment in India’s Renewables Infrastructure Sector’, it reviewed India’s energy market and found some recent policy changes favourable for renewable energy investors.

The challengers’ road map

Up against competition from deep-pocketed cab-hailing giants Uber and Ola, start-ups in the electric mobility space will not just need relentless financial support from investors but must scale up quickly to be visible in the city crowd, and stay top of mind. Currently, these small players are banking on service differentiators to establish a foothold.

Why is the auto industry facing trouble?

The Hindu

In July, the sale of vehicles across categories in the country slumped 18.71% to about 18.25 lakh units, down from about 22.45 lakh units, a year ago in the same month. This has been the steepest fall in nearly 19 years. This data, by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), gives out wholesale figures — i.e. the number of vehicles despatched to dealers by vehicle manufacturers.

‘Electric buses need more safety’

Ahmedabad Mirror

The Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) on Sunday recommended precautionary additions to the city’s newly-acquired electric buses for Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS). While holding a mock drill to get BRTS engineers and drivers as well as fire department officers and personnel acquainted with emergency situations in case of failure or disaster in the buses, the AFES recommended installing keys to the battery chambers and specialised sling ropes in every bus so that the batteries can be pulled out in case of faults, ensuring safety of passengers who commute daily on the public transport.

EV charging stations: KSEB scouts for agencies

Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEB) is scouting for competent agencies interested in setting up electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the state. KSEB, the designated nodal agency appointed by the state government for setting up electronic vehicle charging stations, has invited an expression of interest for setting up 64 public charging stations, mostly on KSEB or government land.

TSRTC pitches for non A/C buses under FAME scheme

The Hans

With the city air-conditioned buses of TSRTC not fetching enough revenues, the Corporation has urged the Centre to provide non A/C buses in the electrical bus scheme. According to senior official in the corporation, the TSRTC has sought 325 buses under the Central government’s FAME (Fast Adoptable and Manufacturing of hybrid and electric vehicles) scheme.

Electric mobility start-ups promise cheaper rides, but can they scale up?

EESL inks MoU with Apollo Hospitals to boost EV charging infra

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of PSUs under the Union ministry of power on Sunday said it has signed a 10-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Apollo Hospital Enterprises Ltd, to install public charging stations in its hospitals across the country to boost e-mobility. As per the MoU, while EESL will invest in specified services and deploy manpower for the operation and maintenance of the charging infrastructure, Apollo Hospitals will provide the requisite space and power connections.

Why storage is the next big thing for the power sector

From the outside, Tata Power Delhi Distribution’s office in Rohini looks like a part of any other electrical substation in the country. High-voltage cables and wires criss-cross each other above the premises. A narrow path demarcates the grounds into two parts. Different types of transformers, circuit breakers, and other installations make up one side. On the other is a nondescript grey single-storey building that stretches across nearly 600 square metres. The whole complex is protected by an eight-foot-high boundary wall.

UP to get second highest number of electric buses after Maharashtra

The Centre has approved Uttar Pradesh’s proposal to operate 600 electric buses in eleven cities to boost urban transport and ply as city buses. After Maharashtra, which got the Centre’s approval to operate 725 electric buses in six cities, UP has got the second highest allocation of E-buses under the FAME-2 scheme of the Centre.

Auto Slowdown: More Layoffs May Be Coming In Sales, R&D

With the deepening crisis in auto sector, which has seen the worst volume plunge in two decades in July, independent human resources industry feels the maximum impact will be on temporary workers, followed by service roles in sales and marketing along with research and development as automakers are forced to cut production.

Start-ups driving Smart Mobility 2.0 swear by electric vehicles

A corporate taxi service operator in the National Capital Region (NCR) is ecstatic. Till last month, getting “green” high-security number plates for their electric car fleet was turning out to be an uphill task.

Auto industry lauds PM Modi’s assurance of petrol/diesel vehicles’ co-existence with electric vehicles

Automobile industry the world over is scrambling to develop and bring finesse to electric vehicle technologies along with improving charging infrastructure and reducing charge times. A common cry from across the globe for cleaner emissions from vehicles considering the rising levels of pollution has led to some governments mulling over banning ICEs (internal combustion engines) eventually. Having a number of cities on the list of most polluted in the world, India has a need to go green all the more.

Telangana power utilities to meet needs of charging agencies

Telangana Transco and Genco Chairman and Managing Director D Prabhakar Rao said that the TS power utilities are fully geared up to supply the required bulk power to the upcoming charging agencies as well as retail consumers of electric vehicles.

Charge and whizz away! Bengaluru to get 12 electric vehicle charging stations soon

Bengaluru city will see the opening of around 12 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations by the end of August. These stations are in Direct Current (DC) mode, which will help in charging vehicles much faster when compared to the Alternate Current (AC) mode charging stations. The pricing for charging at these stations is being finalised.

How India Can Enable E-Mobility Solutions

BW Busniessworld

The last few months have been most critical in terms of our plan to transition to an electrified future for mobility. The introduction of Faster Adoption and Manufacture of Hybrid and Electric Vehicle II (FAME) and proposed deadlines mandating faster adoption has created a sense of urgency.

How Blockchain can further the cause of electric vehicles

Charged up with the idea that electric vehicles (EVs) hold the future of energy and transportation, many countries such as India and those in the European Union are pulling out all the steps to strengthen the EV ecosystem with battery storage manufacturing plants, besides offering a host of financial and tax incentives.

Mumbai: City to get 300 e-buses, 100 for Navi Mumbai

BEST is among five city transport undertakings allotted the most electric vehicles (300) under the Central government’s FAME-2 (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme. The Rs10,000 crore scheme was launched recently to boost electric mobility and increase electric vehicles in commercial fleets.

Kochi: Swanky ‘bus ports’ coming up

If everything falls as per the plans of the transport department, passengers could soon enjoy the comfy of ‘busports’ with amenities on par with airports. The state government finally initiated the process to set up ‘Bus Ports and Logistics Hubs’ across the state by appointing three experienced consultants to prepare Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Auto component cos ride EV wave

As India readies an electric vehicle (EV) rush, its top component manufacturers are changing gears to capture a share of the EV pie — both at home and abroad. Companies including Rico Auto, Bharat Forge, Samvardhana Motherson Group and Pricol have all announced they are either acquiring EV tech companies or ramping up their component business with an eye on the global market as well.

What’s ailing India’s automobile market

India’s automobile market is in deep trouble. Fresh figures released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers show that sales of passenger vehicles in July plummeted 31% from the offtake a year earlier. This marks the ninth straight month of decline, and the steepest in about two decades. Given the alarming fall, it isn’t surprising that carmakers have intermittently been halting production until dealers clear inventories.

Vehicle dispatches to dealers fall 19%, worst drop in 19 years

The auto slowdown intensified in July with sales dropping 18.7%, the biggest monthly decline in nearly 19 years, compared with 12.3% in the previous month, leaving the industry with a massive stockpile ahead of the festival season and generating demands for succour from the government.

‘Electric cars solution to air pollution’

Minister for science and technology Michael Lobo said that air pollution had become a major concern in most developing countries due to the increasing number of petrol and diesel-operated vehicles, due to which countries in the west were moving toward electric vehicles.

Blue body, white hood: State fixes colours for e-rickshaws

Earlier this month, the transport authority, chaired by transport secretary Ashish Kumar Singh, had approved a blue-white colour scheme for e-rickshaws. As per the STA decision, the hood of the e-rickshaws will be painted white, while the remainder of the vehicle’s body will be blue. The STA decision will be applicable to all e-rickshaws registered in the state.

How safe are electric vehicles?

Indian government and stakeholders are pushing for faster adoption of electric vehicles; however some incidents of fire and other life-threatening events around electric vehicles have raised serious safety concerns. With the latest incident on Hyundai Kona EV which exploded due to the heatwave and caused garage fire in Canada has re-invoked the fear.

Electric vehicles to power metro rail connectivity

The Hindu

Providing first and last mile connectivity has been the bugbear for the Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) project ever since it began operations in November 2017. The nearly three lakh passengers using the elevated public transport system could easily climb further if this connectivity was more efficient than what it is now, as officials themselves admit.

In a 1st, electric MTC buses may ply on Chennai roads from Wednesday

For the first time in Chennai, electric buses are likely to be operated for public transport, from Wednesday. According to official sources, two buses will be operated and the routes selected for the trial run are: Chennai Central – Thiruvanmiyur and CMBT, Koyambedu – Broadway.

Mumbai: Soon, charging points for e-vehicles at PPLs

The BMC will allow vehicle charging points for electric vehicles in its public parking lots (PPLs) on a temporary basis to first gauge the response and accordingly draft a policy. In the first stage, the civic body will allot space in 20 PPLs to two companies to set up charging points.

One more incentive to buy electric vehicles in Delhi

With an eye on pollution-free transportation, Delhi Electricity Regularity Commission (DERC) has reduced the rates for charging stations of e-rickshaws and other electric vehicles. Low-tension e-vehicle users (those who charge at home) will pay Rs 4.5 per kW instead of Rs 5.5, while high-tension users (at public charging stations) will pay Rs 4 instead of Rs 5 per kW.

Auto industry cheers PM’s support for ICE vehicles

The Asian Age

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that both internal combustion engine (ICE)-based automobiles as well as electric vehicles (EV) can co-exist has cheered the beleaguered automobile and component manufacturers. In a media interview, Mr Modi also said he believed the automobile industry and auto demand will bounce back strongly and soon, indicating a likely stimulus package soon to boost demand, ahead of the festival season starting next month.

Telangana prepared for electric vehicle but industry facing initial hiccups for delay in policies

Owners and operators of over 3,000 electric vehicles plying on Hyderabad’s roads, including auto-rickshaws, do not have any public charging points at their disposal. However, the city is still positioned better than the Bengaluru, where around 8,000 electric vehicles are plying without any public charging points whatsoever. With the delay in formulating Telangana’s Electric Vehicle policy, due to a series of election, the emerging electric vehicle market is facing initial hiccups.

The new era for automobiles! Why electric cars could be better for you than fuel-based vehicles

Zee Biz

India aims to have gas-free cars aka electric vehicles entirely by 2030. And, the government seems to be serious about transforming country’s automobile sector. Hence, the announcement made in Union Budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, paved further way for both automakers and customers to shift to electric cars.

Soon, 50 e-buses to be added to Gurugaman fleet

The Centre has given its approval to the Gurugram Metropolitan City Bus Limited (GMCBL) to buy 50 electric buses which will be added to the Gurugaman fleet. Gurugram is the only city in Haryana to get electric buses under the Union ministry of heavy industries’ FAME-India scheme. According to an official of GMCBL, the department had applied for 100 electric buses, of which 50 have been approved by the ministry.

What makes EVs and shared mobility inevitable for India, explain industry leaders

The mobility paradigm in coming three decades will fundamentally change and it cannot afford to look like what it is today, therefore, the policies should be made in keeping this notion in mind, Mahesh Babu, CEO, Mahindra Electric told the industry stakeholders at ETAuto E-Mobility Convention.

The curious case of electric mobility in India

In an indication that mass adoption of electric vehicles in India is still some years away, a shareholder of Mahindra and Mahindra – country’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer by quite a margin – asked managing director Pawan Goenka when the company will venture into or launch electric vehicles.

Electric buses to ply in 3 cities soon

The government has proposed to operate electric buses in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai soon, said transport secretary J. Radhakrishnan, on Friday. Addressing a board meeting here, Radhakrishnan said the government is making elaborate arrangements to operate electric buses in the above said cities.

India’s EV dream: Does buying an electric car today really make sense?

Car sales, in recent times, are facing several headwinds. Besides an overall slowdown in the economy, the imposition of BS-VI norms from April 2020 and the recent push towards electric vehicles are leaving the potential buyer both confused and wary.

PMPML to get 150 e-buses under Centre’s scheme

The Centre on Tuesday approved a proposal to add 150 electric buses to the fleet of Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML). PMPML will get the buses in Phase II of the FAME India scheme, which is aimed at boosting clean mobility in public transportation.

The urgent case for green finance

A silent revolution is taking place, one which we cannot ignore. Climate change has been thrust into the foreground of the public consciousness and institutional investors are under pressure to act. This year’s annual general meeting of BP Plc signalled this shift quite unabashedly. While protesters lined the streets outside, a number of institutional investors, including Aviva Investors and Hermes Investment Management, stood up inside the room to voice the same climate concerns.

Karnataka: HDBRTS may soon procure 50 e-buses

In an effort to encourage clean mobility in public transportation, the Union government has sanctioned as many as 50 electric buses to Hubballi-Dharwad under phase two of Faster Adoption and Manufacture of (Hybrid and) Electric Vehicles(FAME) India scheme. The ministry of heavy industries and public enterprises has stated that the government has approved the sanction of 5,595 electric buses to 64 cities under phase two of FAME India scheme and Hubballi-Dharwad are among them.

Govt unlikely to offer GST concessions to auto firms

The government is unlikely to offer goods and services tax (GST) concessions to the auto sector as it believes that companies have been slow in responding to consumer demand on BS-VI. Besides, it fears that sops to one sector will open the floodgates to demands from other sectors.

Karnataka to get 400 electric buses; 300 in Bengaluru

To encourage environment-friendly public transportation, the Centre sanctioned 400 electric buses for Karnataka. Under Phase II of Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (Fame) in India scheme, the Union ministry of heavy industries and public enterprises sanctioned 5,595 electric buses to 64 cities for intra-city and inter-city operations.

Nashik to 50 e-buses under FAME 2

The state will get a total of 725 electric buses for intra-city and inter-city operations under the second phase of Centre’s Faster Adoption and Manufacture of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme. Through the scheme, the central government plans to give a push to clean mobility in public transportation. The biggest beneficiary of the scheme is Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Electrical Supply and Transport (BEST) service that will get as many as 300 buses, followed by Pune (150), Navi Mumbai and Nagpur (100 each), Nashik (50) buses and Solapur (25).

E-Mobility Mission to be Implemented in Phases Based on Auto Industry Feedback: Meghwal

The National Electric Mobility Mission will be implemented in phases based on the feedback from the auto industry, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said on Friday. The Minister of State for Heavy Industries promised all support to the auto industry on policy matters to ensure the smooth and efficient transformation of the automotive industry from internal combustion (IC) to electric powertrain.

How Mukesh Ambani-led world’s biggest refinery is bracing for an EV future

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Ltd plans to produce only jet fuel and petrochemicals at its mega Jamnagar refinery complex as it implements an oil-to-chemical strategy that will eliminate most fuels it produces in favour of high value products. The company is preparing its Jamnagar complex, the world’s largest refinery at a single location, to be future ready as fuel demand undergoes change with advent of electric vehicles.

Electric vehicle charging points at MahaMetro stations

As a part of its drive to promote green transport in the city, MahaMetro has decided to start electric vehicle charging stations at some of its stations. Solar power generated at the stations will be used to charge the cars and two-wheelers. MahaMetro has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Energy Efficiency Service Limited (EESL), a government company under Union power ministry, in this regard.

Panel to implement e-vehicle policy in Delhi

The Delhi government has constituted a high-level committee in order to boost its electric vehicle policy on ground. The 11-member team will work with the Centre to promote the adoption of electric vehicles among people. The committee will have members from the Delhi Dialogue and Development Commission, municipal corporations, power and transport departments.

PMPML gets 150 electric buses under Fame-II scheme from central government

The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has been allotted 150 electric buses by the department of heavy industries of the central government under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India scheme (Fame-II), which was launched in March this year.

Tamil Nadu gets 525 e-buses, deal for 300 more almost final

The Union Heavy Industries Ministry sanctioned 525 electric buses for Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Coimbatore, Madurai and Trichy will get 100 buses and smaller cities, including Salem, Erode, Tirupur and Vellore, will get 50 each. Another 25 buses have been earmarked for Thanjavur under Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) in India scheme.

Govt sanctions 5,595 electric buses for 64 cities under FAME II

The Department of Heavy Industry has sanction 5,595 electric buses for 64 cities under the FAME India scheme’s second phase to give a further push to clean mobility in public transportation, according to an official statement released on Thursday.

Hurdles in Bengaluru public places keep electric kick scooters at bay

While electric kick scooters has been gaining traction in many foreign cities, the trend is yet to catch up in Bengaluru. Globally, stand-up foldable electric kick scooters have seen a rise in popularity as it is convenient for last-mile connectivity. But high cost, lack of electric-charging stations, clogged roads, absence of wide pavements and good-quality roads are the reasons for the poor response here, said experts.

Inverted duty on EVs to hamper growth, needs correction

Despite getting relief on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) front, electric vehicle (EV) makers feel an inverted duty structure could impede growth. The manufacturers have sought a correction so that the overall cost of vehicles could be brought down to push the EV industry which is presently at a nascent stage in the country.

Without FAME, e-bike sales see a sharp fall

Electric two-wheeler sales fell sharply in the April-June quarter, with only five manufacturers getting subsidies under a revamped government scheme to promote green mobility. Phase two of the subsidy scheme—FAME-India (faster adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles in India)—has stricter localisation norms and is aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing of electric vehicles and components. The second phase, with an outlay of Rs 10,000 crore, became effective from April 1 this year.

‘Auto industry should grab EV opportunity’

NITI Aayog, the government think-tank, feels that the auto industry should grab the opportunity offered by Electric Vehicles (EVs) and emerge as a global leader in the sunrise industry. “It cannot be the government versus the auto industry. Many dynamic start-ups and some established players are already actively participating in this emerging industry. Our process of consultation with the industry began at the two-day mobility conference that NITI Aayog had organised in October 2018,” said NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar.

Auto industry seeks stimulus package from government

Auto industry leaders on Wednesday asked the government for a stimulus package, including GST reduction on vehicles, for the sector which has been hit by an unprecedented slump in sales. In a meeting with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, industry leaders, including Maruti Suzuki Chairman R C Bhargava, M&M President – Automotive Sector Rajan Wadhera, who is also president of SIAM, along with representatives from components sector body ACMA and dealers body FADA drew attention to the challenges, including job losses, faced by the industry.

Why we need to look beyond the ‘electric’ smokescreen

I have been grappling with the government’s new-found obsession with electric mobility as if it is the only solution for India’s transportation problems. If I were the government of India, I would be really bothered about two key things: One, bringing down my fuel import bill; and two, bringing down air pollution. I need to set the larger goals and targets for both, and leave it to experts to work out the best collaborative solutions.

25% rebate on land for setting up charging points in UP

The Uttar Pradesh government decided on Tuesday to give a rebate of 25 per cent on the market rate of land for establishing charging units for electric vehicles. The state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cleared a policy in this regard. “Three points are taken in the policy. First, more and more electric vehicles are made in the state. Secondly, preparing network of charging stations and thirdly creating a demand of these vehicles,” UP government spokesperson Sidharth Nath Singh told reporters.

EVs to account for 80% of global shared mobility fleet by 2040: Report

Shared mobility service will adopt the electric vehicles faster than private owners and by 2040, around 80 per cent of the global ride-sharing fleet will be attributed to EVs, claims a report by BloombergNEF. The study also reveals that currently, electric vehicles account for 1.8 per cent of the global shared mobility fleet, that includes taxis, ride-hailing and car-sharing. It also says that the ratio of green vehicles will increase fast due to more attractive economics.

India’s auto crisis deepens, tens of thousands losing jobs: Report

Slumping sales of cars and motorcycles are triggering massive job cuts in India’s auto sector, with many companies forced to shut down factories for days and axe shifts, multiple sources said. The cull has been so extensive that one senior industry source told Reuters that initial estimates suggest that automakers, parts manufacturers and dealers have laid off about 350,000 workers since April.

7 strategies India Inc needs to spearhead the EV revolution

Even as the Government kickstarts Electric Vehicle (EV) development initiatives in India, significant roadblocks lie ahead. Only the right policies will ensure that customers, manufacturers and the state overcome these challenges. One of the largest global automotive markets, India can play a dominant role in the upcoming Electric Vehicle (EV) revolution.

TN EV policy draft may have sops for early adopters

ET Tech

Tamil Nadu’s electric vehicle policy could have a draft of incentives targeted at vehicle manufacturers and allied industries, with a new 3-5 year validity package that contains special sops to draw early adopters as the southern state looks to complement a central push toward transition from internal combustion engines.

Electric two-wheeler sales fall as only 5 firms get FAME benefits

ET Tech

Electric two-wheeler sales fell sharply in the April-June quarter, with only five manufacturers getting subsidies under a revamped government scheme to promote green mobility. Phase two of the subsidy scheme-FAME-India (faster adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles in India)-has stricter localisation norms and is aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing of electric vehicles and components. The second phase, with an outlay of 10,000 crore, became effective from April 1 this year.

UP announces e-vehicles policy, targets Rs 40,000 cr investment by 2024

The Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced the much-awaited electric vehicles (e-vehicles) policy, which targets attracting nearly Rs 40,000 crore in private investment over the next 5 years. The policy, which had been in the making for quite some time, was cleared by the state cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister Adityanath on Tuesday. The government has projected the e-vehicles segment will create about 50,000 new employment opportunities.

India’s electric vehicle journey so far: A story of nudges and trudges

The concept of electric vehicles (EVs) has been around for a fairly long time, but it has drawn significant interest only in the past decade. While rising carbon footprint and other environmental impacts of the fuel-based vehicles have nudged policymakers the world over to look seriously at EVs, India’s efforts have so far yielded very little.

Government’s EV push has oil industry worried

The overemphasis on Electric Vehicles (EVs) by the government has the oil and gas industry in India concerned. The industry feels that the prevailing situation will lead to investors and bankers having second thoughts on making investments in the oil and gas sector. The players under the aegis of Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI), which represents Indian Oil Corporation, Reliance Industries, Nayara Energy, BP, ONGC to name a few, propose to take up the issue with the Ministry for Petroleum and Natural Gas.

Over 3K buses to be inducted by next May to augment public transport, Delhi govt tells SC

The Delhi government informed the Supreme Court on Monday that 3,035 buses, including 1,385 low floor AC and electric ones, will be inducted by next May to augment the public transport system in the national capital. In an additional affidavit filed in the apex court, the Delhi government said that the process of inducting 1,000 standard floor non-AC CNG cluster buses with hydraulic lifts, for differently-abled persons, will start this month and would be completed in February 2020.

Charged up for an e-vehicle revolution

Despite the state’s eagerness to get e-vehicles up and moving, things seem to be moving at a snail’s pace. The fundamental reason? Experts cite ‘range anxiety’, which is the worry that the electric vehicle might run out of charge before reaching a charging station and leave the person stranded, as the primary reason for hampering the growth of e-vehicles. The solution? Sufficient charging points and vehicles with extended range.

India’s road map to vehicle electrification: EV affordability, charging infrastructure & skill development

India’s dream of becoming Detroit of electric vehicles got further boost once again since the Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman announced the additional tax relief of Rs 1.5 lakh on the interest paid on loans availed for purchasing electric vehicles. The government is making huge efforts in the direction of enabling green driving, eco-friendly mobility, and the making of a lucrative EV market. Although, less than 1% of vehicles in the country are electric.

Ready to move to clean, affordable fuels: Pradhan

On Friday, a Bloomberg NEF forecast stated India was likely to be the fourth-largest EV market by 2040 — after China, the United States, and Germany — with sales expected to touch around 2.6 million by that year.

100 electric buses to connect Delhi with Jaipur soon

Residents will soon have 50 electric buses at their disposal to commute within Jaipur city. Moreover, citizens commuting on the Jaipur to Delhi route will also be able to avail the facility with 100 electric buses soon to be made available for the purpose. Rajasthan state roadways transport corporation (RSRTC) and Jaipur city transport service limited (JCTSL) will soon acquire said electric buses, for which a trial was carried out on Friday.

E-Vehicles: Old technology, new innovation

Moneycontrol

From the very beginning when people used to ride on horses, human civilization has come to an end where electric cars are now ruling the roads again. Again? Exactly. Just after the first motor vehicle by Karl Benz that was patented on 1886, motors vehicles took up the roads around 1900s and at that time there were almost twice as many electric cars on the road than petrol or diesel cars. Slowly, the interest in these cars dwindled during 1920s because of their low top speed and low range, albeit by barely a few miles.

Karnataka Govt to give 600 acres of land around B’lore to build EV cluster

Discussing Karnataka as the front runner for electric vehicles, Gunjan Krishna, Director of Industries and Commerce, Government of Karnataka said the state aims to create EV cluster with the help of the stakeholders. “We are looking at creating an EV cluster to promote entrepreneurs in this space. When people are in a cluster, they can take advantage of economies of scale, logistics and support in one place and we invite you to be part of this group,” said Krishna while addressing the industry stalwarts at ET Auto E-Mobility Convention here.

Designing the perfect range map for electric cars

Last month when Hyundai India launched its long-range electric car, the Kona, opinions were divided on whether its 39.2kWh battery pack really offers a 452-km range on a full charge (certified by the Automotive Research Association of India), even as the same car, in the European Union, has a certified driving range of 289-km.

India looking at newer EV battery technologies for strategic reasons

As part of India’s energy security playbook, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is exploring newer battery technologies such as polymer-based solid state batteries, that may allow India to avoid dependence on lithium or cobalt imports.

Slow but steady: Electric vehicles find a ready market in e-tailing

As the government and two-wheeler manufacturers remain at loggerheads over the deadline to phase out the conventional internal combustion engine and bring in electric vehicles instead, several entrepreneurs are busy creating a landscape to make the latter a success in their own small ways.

Open to suggestions on EV rollout: Niti Vice-Chairman

The government wants to nurture the existing automotive industry even as it aims to phase-in vehicle electrification, says Rajiv Kumar, the vice-chairman of the Niti Aayog, which has been spearheading a drive towards mass electrification of two- and three-wheelers. On electrification of four-wheelers, he tells ET that while the think tank made no proposal, it hopes India to achieve zero emission by 2047, the centenary year of independence.

50 Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles to Come Up in Hyderabad

Fifty centres to charge electric vehicles would be set up in Hyderabad, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) said here onFriday. The GHMC signed an MoU with the EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Ltd) in this regard, a GHMC release said. GHMC Mayor Bonthu Rammohan said EESL would set up the public charging centres at 50 places belonging to the GHMC.

Subsides soon to make batteries in India

India is close to finalising a direct subsidy plan for battery manufacturing to fire up its clean energy switch. It will in December, invite bids from global players to ‘Make in India’ under the plan that, in addition to subsidy benefits for 10 years, will offer a host of incentives such as depreciation and zero import duty on key inputs.

Government Plans to Invest INR 100 Billion 1.4 Billion to Incentivize Electric Vehicle Manufacturing in India

The Week

BIS Research is coming up with a market intelligence report, titled “Indian Electric Vehicles and Electric Vehicle Batteries Market − Analysis and Forecast, 2019-2030”, which highlights growing prospects of electric vehicle (EV) production and assembly scenario in India, detailed supply chain analysis, separator demand by type analysis, and regional analysis on the basis of vehicle type.

Planning to buy e-vehicle? EV firms trim prices after GST breather

Owning an electric car and two-wheeler will now be easier on the wallet. With a steep reduction in the GST (goods and service tax) rate taking effect, manufacturers of EVs have reduced prices of their models — up to Rs 80,000 for e-cars and up to Rs 9,000 for e-two-wheelers. In a bid to spur the EV demand, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced a reduction in GST on EVs from 12 per cent to 5 per cent in her maiden Budget.

Green move: Charging e-vehicles now cheaper in Delhi

Meet EV deadline or pay up for pollution, govt may tell cos

Two- and threewheeler makers in India may be asked by the government to pay up for causing vehicular pollution if they do not meet the deadline to produce electric vehicles (EVs).

The Centre must set an example in the use of EVs

International Business Times

With the government working towards making India an all-electric car market by 2030, minister for road transport and highways, Nitin Gadkari, in 2017, told carmakers in no uncertain terms that if they stick to petrol or diesel, he would not mind “bulldozing” them to check pollution and imports. Two years down the line, the minister, who holds the same portfolio in the second Narendra Modi government, must be worried about the state of rollout of electric vehicles (EV) in India, and the challenges the sector faces today.

India, UK launch clean air initiative in Bengaluru

The Innovation for Clean Air (IfCA) was launched in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The two-year UK-India joint initiative provides Indian and UK stakeholders opportunities to test interventions related to air quality and EV integration.

2025 deadline for electric two-wheelers is an opportunity, not a restriction

NITI Aayog’s proposal to stop the registration of internal combustion engine (ICE)-driven three-wheelers by 2023 and two-wheelers under 150cc by 2025 has a lot of people in the automobile industry in a tizzy. While I understand the point of view of my colleagues in the automobile industry, I feel the need of the hour is a change in the mindset – of the industry and of the consumer.

India Offers Its Unused Electric Vehicles to Taxi Fleets

India’s Energy Efficiency Services Ltd., responsible for replacing the state’s vehicles with new-energy cars, is seeking to lease electric vehicles to cab companies amid delays integrating them into government fleets. EESL has made offers to lease EVs to Ola Cabs, a Softbank Group Corp.-backed ride-hailing service, and Indian taxi firm Meru Cabs, and plans to reach out as well to Uber Technologies Inc., according to Managing Director Saurabh Kumar. EESL already signed an agreement earlier this month with electric taxi startup Blu-Smart Mobility for 500 electric cars, he said.

GST rate cut drawing firms to EV business, but viability remains an issue

Last week, the GST council cut rate cuts on electric vehicles (EVs) from 12 per cent to 5 per cent and on electric chargers from 18 to 5 per cent, a clear signal that it proposes to forge ahead with its target of reducing urban pollution and crude oil import bill. Both rate cuts will considerably narrow the price differential between EVs and petrol and diesel vehicles.

Govt softens stance on time frame for transition to electric vehicles

The government seems to have softened its stance on the time frame for transition to electric vehicles (EVs). The Ministry of Heavy Industries, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the power ministry, and the NITI Aayog — tasked with the policymaking and implementation of the government’s e-mobility plan — have extended an olive branch to the beleaguered automobile industry by agreeing to a “softer, pragmatic, phase-wise approach”. Under the revised plan, highly-polluted urban cities will be targeted first.

Customers are not fully prepared for electric and autonomous vehicles: Study

Despite the auto manufacturers and technology companies spending billions on self-driving technology and electric vehicles, customers are not yet fully prepared to accept these new mobility solutions, reveals a study. The first J.D. Power Mobility Confidence Index Study has found that customers have low-level comfort when it comes to riding in self-driving vehicles, scoring only 34 in a point scale of 36-100.

Chinese shadow growing longer over India’s electric-vehicle dream

India’s dream of getting more and more middle-class families to use electric vehicles (EVs) seems to be hinging to Beijing, which controls the supply of some key battery components. And this might well become another flashpoint in the volatile relations between India and China.

Competition

MG Motor announces tie up with Delta Electronics for setting up charging stations

China’s SAIC owned MG Motor India Pvt Ltd on Thursday announced its decision to partner Delta Electronics India for setting up charging stations for electric vehicles in different parts of the country. The announcement comes months ahead of the launch of MG’s upcoming electric sport utility vehicle eZS.

Hero Electric to ramp up production at manufacturing unit in Ludhiana

Hero Electric, part of HeroEco Enterprise, would look at ramping up production of electric vehicles at its facility in Ludhiana, a top official has said. According to Hero Electric Head-Marketing Manu Kumar, the company has lined up investment plans of about Rs 700 crore over the next three years to ramp up the production capacity of electric scooters.

Tata Power to Set Up 500 EV Charging Stations in India by 2020, Says Ramesh Subramanyam

The Government of India is pushing the electric vehicle penetration in India by announcing a slew of tax cuts and benefits on the EVs, right from GST cut to tax free registration. However, growing EVs means India needs proper charging infrastructure, which is currently at its nascent stage. Tata Power, part of the Tata Group has now jumped the wagon to install electric vehicle charging stations across India and is the first big name to do so.

KEL in talks with Toshiba for making lithium ion batteries

Kerala Electrical & Allied Engineering Co. Limited (KEL) is in discussion with Toshiba to manufacture fast charging lithium ion (li-ion)batteries for electrical vehicles. The Toshiba team from Japan visited the Mamala unit of KEL on Tuesday. “We are keen to collaborate with Toshiba to assemble li-ion batteries of different capacities for various types of electric vehicles, boats, etc. We have shown our facility to team and have also shown the vacant land available at the unit which is suitable for establishing electric battery assembling unit to the delegation.” said Shaji Varghese, MD of KEL

We had virtually zero sales for 4 months when govt suddenly altered EV policy, says Hero Electric CEO

CNBC TV18

As India drives its electric vehicle policy through a subsidy programme that encourages local production, its hasty implementation, frequent changes, and unavailability of finance for the vehicles have been weighing on the country’s EV industry.

Hyundai planning electric scooter for Indian market

Hyundai Motor Group has developed a prototype electric scooter for Indian market, company sources said. The group doesn’t have two-wheeler in its global portfolio yet. The scooter is charged automatically using electricity produced while driving. Dong Jin Hyun, head of Hyundai Motor Group Robotics Team, said: “This is the vehicle-mounted personal scooter, which could be featured in future Hyundai Motor Group vehicles. Our personal electric scooter makes first- and last-mile commuting a joy, while helping reduce congestion and emissions in city centres.”

A 220 km running range for EV will overcome range anxiety: Shailesh Chandra

Shailesh Chandra, president – electric mobility and corporate strategy, Tata Motors Ltd spoke to Mint recently on developing cost-effective electric mobility solutions for mass adoption in India, banking on shared mobility and exploring new skateboard concepts, which are used by the likes of Tesla, General Motors and Audi, for developing futuristic EVs.

EV push is not endgame for oil industry: HPCL CMD

MK Surana, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), said electric vehicles will not be a threat to the oil industry “at least for the next 10 years” as it will snatch away only a part of the “incremental demand” and “not disrupt the existing demand”.

Pawan Munjal Planning To Invest In Ola Electric

NDTV Auto

Ola Electric is soon going to get a new Billionaire investor who also happens to be one of the most eminent personalities in the Indian auto industry. According to a news report published by Mint, Pawan Munjal- Chairman of Hero MotoCorp India is in talks with Ola to invest in its electric mobility venture. After Ratan Tata- Chairman Emeritus of Tata Group, Munjal will be the second big investor from the auto industry who will be personally investing in Ola electric.

Toyota to keep selling diesel models in India as it expects demand to continue

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is planning to continue to sell diesel models in the country even as prices of such vehicles are expected to go up significantly with the upcoming BS-VI emission norms from April 1 next year, a top company official has said.

Amara Raja launches EV Battery charging/swapping stations

Daily Excelsior

In a bid to promote India’s move towards EV adoption, Amara Raja has launched EV battery charging / swapping stations along with a fleet of e-Autos here on Friday evening. The initiative is undertaken in collaboration with Tirupati Municipal Corporation, as a part of its smart city program, the Company said in a release here.

Pawan Munjal to plug into Ola Electric

Pawan Munjal might be the next big investor after Ratan Tata to invest in Ola Electric. Billionaire Pawan Munjal, chairman of Hero MotoCorp Ltd—India’s largest two-wheeler maker by sales—is in advanced talks to invest in the electric mobility arm of ride-hailing company Ola, said four people directly aware of the development.

Still evaluating feasibility of launching electric vehicles in India: BMW

German luxury automaker BMW on Wednesday said it is still evaluating if it should launch an electric car in India as the ecosystem for launching such vehicles remains “ambiguous and uncertain” in the country right now. The company, which on Wednesday introduced the all new 3 Series sedan in the country, said it has the required technology and products and is watching the space carefully for entering electric mobility space in India.

Local EV component manufacturing will help India globally: Mahesh Babu, CEO, Mahindra Electric

Mahesh Babu – CEO, Mahindra Electric talks about EV Ecosystem in the coming 5 years and according to him right decisions and collaborations are happening between government, industry and the ecosystem. He says that local component manufacturing for electric vehicles will help India to become a major global player in the zero-emission vehicle industry.

EVs, most impactful factor for Indian two-wheeler industry

DNA

On the evolution of the industry, especially the two-wheeler segment, the electronic vehicle (EV) scenario will be the most impactful factor for the Indian automotive market in the next 10 years. An ambitious undertak- ing, there are many facets to its intro- duction that need careful and collabo- rative consensus.

RIL-BP may set up EV charging points at its fuel retail outlets

Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and BP Plc plan to offer electric vehicle (EV) charging points at their energy stations across India, a senior RIL official said, as the two companies seek to benefit from the government push to increase sales of eco-friendly vehicles. RIL, controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, is expected to tap the expertise of BP, its British partner in the field of charging EVs, said the official, on condition of anonymity.

90 Km/Charge: You Can Charge This Electric Bike’s Battery Through Your Laptop!

The Better India

Launched in October 2018, the Gemopai Ryder is an electric two-wheeler which solves two critical concerns of Indian consumers who want to shift from fossil fuel-powered vehicles—affordability and the lack of charging infrastructure. Gemopai Ryder is the brainchild of Gemopai Electrics, a joint venture between Goreen E-Mobility, a Delhi-based startup and Opai Electric, a giant in the electric vehicle (EV) space with over 15 years of experience selling more than 15 million electric scooters worldwide.

Maruti Suzuki chairman RC Bhargava pitches for tax relief for hybrid, CNG cars

The country’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) is pitching for tax relief for hybrid and CNG cars in addition to electric vehicles in order to promote green mobility in the country. MSI chairman R.C. Bhargava said there is a need to promote hybrid and CNG cars as it will take some time for mass acceptance of electric vehicles (EVs) considering the high cost of technology right now.

Tesla shows interest in India’s plans to build battery plants

Tesla and China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd (CATL) are among the companies that have shown an initial interest in the Indian government’s plan to build large factories to make lithium-ion batteries at an investment of about ₹50,000 crore. Among the other firms that have shown an interest in the mega project is China’s BYD Co. Ltd, said two government officials aware of the matter, requesting anonymity.

Panasonic may set up li-ion battery module assembly unit in India

Japan’s Panasonic Corp. is exploring opportunities to set up a facility for assembling lithium-ion (li-ion) battery modules in India, said a top company executive. With India readying its roadmap for transition to electric mobility, leading global manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries are exploring opportunities to first build assembly units, even as they eventually plan large-scale manufacturing of lithium-ion cells in the country.

Erick electric three-wheeler unveiled with just 5 minutes of charging time

Shado Group has unveiled its electric three-wheelers under the Erick brand name. The vehicle has been developed by Adarin Engineering Technologies, a Shado Group company and has a range of 70 km per single full charge. The company says that Erick is targeted at the Indian commercial market and is capable of operating at high ambient temperatures.

Battery swapping for electric vehicles

Battery swapping in electric vehicles will be a big trend and we are already seeing this transition. However, we can only benefit if connector technology is made universal and OEM agnostic. This is particularly important for public transportation that uses heavy batteries. It will ensure lesser downtime. To complement connector technology, we need powerful storage technology that allows for unlimited high power charge and discharge even within a weak grid.

Magenta Power in talks with OEMs, govt agencies to deploy EV charging stations

Maxson Lewis, Managing Director of Magenta Power, told BusinessLine that the company has thus far deployed its solutions in seven cities and is now seeking to expand its presence. The company, which had had a tie-up with HPCL, sees immense scope for these charging stations.

How Euler Motors is using EVs to power last-mile delivery for large firms

India’s attempt to push the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has opened a floodgate of opportunities for start-ups working in this space towards creating the building blocks for its success. While players like Ather Energy and a handful of established auto-makers are making e-scooters and cars for passengers (PVs), Euler Motors, a year-and-a-half-old start-up is looking at solving last-mile delivery and logistics through EVs.

EV-charging ecosystem firm BrightBlu starts operations in India

The advance of electric mobility is bringing a variety of industry stakeholders together, and in the world of start-ups, new-age organisations are looking to make the most of their capabilities. Asia Electric, an EV charging solutions company and DrivAMP, a smart charging technology provider, have announced the merger of their business operations. The new entity will now operate under the BrightBlu brand.

Renault plans to launch new SUV and EV in India by 2022

Times Now

Renault India seems to be pursuing the Indian automobile market rather aggressively. The subsidiary of the French carmaker, which had been battling sales crunch, is hoping to improve its position in the industry on account of 2019 Duster, which was launched last month, and its upcoming vehicle–Triber– which is slated to be launched on 28 August.

In Transition Towards Electric Vehicles, Two-Wheelers Will Convert First: Naveen Munjal

While many believe that the transition of the Indian automotive industry from the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) powered vehicles to Electric Vehicles (EV) is already underway, almost everyone has something to say about it. That’s not it, amongst all the talk around electric vehicles, there has been several changes and announcements in order to promote the EV industry. But how much of that has been taking place on the ground? How is the consumer sentiment towards these vehicles and what are the steps that should be taken in order to help the industry furthe

Gemopai to launch new electric scooter Astrid Lite this month: Ather 450 rival to come with swappable battery

There are arguments both for and against when it comes to electrification of various modes of transport. Some say they don’t really help as the electricity that powers these vehicles comes from coal-based power plants, some say electric personal vehicles are just not a feasible idea, some say that charging batteries can never be as quick as a trip to a fuel filling station and some just dismiss the idea of electrics since they’ve pledged allegiance to internal combustion engines (ICE).

‘Strong EV push by govt & consumer desire for clean energy set to drive sales’

The Indian Express

Nissan Motor India, a unit of the Yokohama-based Japanese carmaker, has an extended history of working with EVs, with its four-seater Tama Electric Car that ran on lead-acid batteries debuting way back in 1947. Its first generation Leaf was launched in 2010, and the second generation — with better design and a longer range (400 km, compared to the earlier 225 km) — in 2017, making the Leaf the world’s largest-selling electric vehicle.

Tough FAME II norms see only 70 OEMs qualify

As is known, second phase of the FAME (Faster Adoption Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India) India Scheme kicked in on March 1, 2019 and saw the government earmark a bigger budget outlay of Rs 10,000 crore to accelerate adoption of EVs. Exactly four months since then, the FAME II norms are turning out to he challenging for most companies, which were earlier benefitting from incentives under the first phase of the FAME Scheme.

Anand Mahindra: Investments can make India a global electric vehicle hub

CNBC TV18

There is a tectonic shift in the auto industry, and the time is right for a shift to electric vehicles, Anand Mahindra, chairman, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said in his address to shareholders at M&M’s 73rd annual general meeting, where the dominant theme was electric vehicles.

Amalgamations Group prepares for the EV era

The 81-year-old, Chennai-based diversified Amalgamations Group, which manufactures an expansive range of components used in internal combustion engines, is readying for the industry shift to electric mobility. “NITI Aayog has already come out with a policy statement saying that all two-wheelers less than 150cc will have to be electric by 2024. The industry has got some view on this but we believe this is a reality and it will happen.

Considering electric option for mass segment 2-wheeler market in India: Benelli

Italian motorcycle maker Benelli on Wednesday said it is looking at electric option to enter the mass segment of Indian two-wheeler market in the wake of government’s push for eco-friendly mobility. The company, which re-entered India in January this year in the superbike category, had earlier planned to enter the mass segment with lower engine capacity conventional motorcycles, besides making the country a base for export of such two-wheelers.

How Ola swung a funding flip

When Ola Electric Mobility Pvt. Ltd, the electric vehicle unit spun off from ride-hailing startup Ola, said in July that it had raised about $250 million from SoftBank Group Corp., it became the fastest firm to become a unicorn after Udaan, a business-to-business commerce platform. Ola Electric took just two and a half years to attain the unicorn tag, which refers to startups valued at $1 billion or more.

Panasonic bets on EV infrastructure, digital factory solutions

Japanese electronics major Panasonic plans to make rapid strides in electric vehicles charging infrastructure and smart & connected digital factory solutions, looking to clock Rs 12,000 crore revenue this year against Rs 10,300 crore in 2018-19.

Mahindra & Mahindra plans to roll out three new electric vehicles

Mahindra & Mahindra, which reported on Wednesday a 52.56% decline in consolidated profit after tax to ₹894.11 crore in the first quarter ended June 30 due to lower volume growth, has said it plans to roll out a range of new electric vehicles. At the same time, chairman Anand Mahindra at the company’s 73rd annual general meeting said there is a “tectonic shift” occurring in the industry and the time is ripe for that shift.

We have plans to introduce EV recharging posts at outlets, says Bob Dudley of BP

CNBC TV18

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and BP have formed a new fuel retail joint venture which will include RIL’s ATF business. RIL will hold 51 percent and British Petroleum 49 percent in this new fuel retail joint venture. The joint venture will build on RIL’s current fuel network of about 1,400 sites. Over the next five years, the JV will set up 5,500 sites.

IOC plans to make and sell EV batteries

In a bid to support the government’s electric mobility drive and tap the emerging trend of electric mobility Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is planning to manufacture and sell batteries for electric mobility.

MG Motor’s EV strategy to cause disruption

One of the world’s largest automobile manufacturers SAIC’s India subsidiary MG Motor plans to replicate the sales dream run of its SUV Hector with its first electric offering — ZS EV — slated to be launched in December. The company faces several challenges such as high input cost, absence of charging infrastructure and acceptability in a price sensitive market like India.

Tata Power and Tata Motors announce partnership to install 300 EV charging stations

Tata Power and Tata Motors announced their partnership to install 300 fast charging stations by the end of the FY20, across key five cities namely Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Today, both companies inaugurated their first 7 charging stations in Pune, to enable the e-mobility drive in the city. Over the next two months, 45 more chargers will be installed across the other four cities. These chargers will be installed at Tata Motors dealerships, certain Tata Group retail outlets and other public locations.

Ampere Vehicles cuts e-scooter prices by Rs 5,000 post GST cut

Engineering firm Greaves Cotton’s e-mobility subsidiary Ampere Vehicles on Friday announced a price cut of up to Rs 5,000 on its e-scooters in the wake of government reducing GST on EVs to 5 per cent from 12 per cent earlier. Following the downward price revision, the company’s flagship high speed e-scooter Zeal will now cost Rs 67,000 as against Rs 72,000 (ex-showroom Bangalore) earlier, the Coimbatore-based Ampere Vehicle said in a release.

Livguard bets big on lithium-ion batteries

Livguard Energy Technologies Pvt. Ltd, which makes automotive batteries, inverters, stabilizers and residential solar solutions, is betting on lithium-ion batteries for inverters and electric vehicles for its future expansion.

Current tech doesn’t enable production of small e-cars

“..I don’t think the EV (WagonR) will be less than ~10 lakh. Even the electric battery for this will have to be imported. Our target audience for the product is car aggregators. We are not even looking at individual car buyers.”

Ather Energy reduces e-scooter prices by Rs 9,000 after slashing of GST

The recent slashing of GST on electric vehicles from 12 to five percent, the lowest GST slab, is having its impact. EV manufacturers have begun to announce the reduced prices. Ather Energy, the Bangalore-based electric scooter maker, has cut prices of its scooters – the 340 and 450.

KSL partners China’s Huaihai for EV business in India

Dhiraj Bhagchandka, managing director, KSL Cleantech and Cathrine Xing, director, Huaihai Holding Group & GM for international business showcasing the electric vehicle range in New Delhi. KSL Cleantech (formerly known as Kirti Solar), one of the pioneers in renewable energy and electric vehicles in India has entered into a joint venture (JV) with China’s Huaihai Holding Group— one of the largest companies in the field of electric mini vehicles.

International

Electric cars ‘always cleaner than petrol’

Britain’s increasingly green electricity mix means it is now “inconceivable” that an electric vehicle could be more polluting than a petrol or diesel vehicle, according to new research. The closure of coal plants and rise of subsidised wind and solar power has decarbonised UK electricity generation in the past few years, reducing the emissions involved in charging a car.

Switching to an electric car could cost you just over £7,000 with new battery conversion

Express

A new startup is offering drivers a cheaper way to get their hands on an electric vehicle. For many motorists, the cost of an electric vehicle is still very much out of the question. Electric cars typically cost a lot more money to buy outright than petrol equivalents. While the difference in finance prices and the reduced running costs are smaller now than before, they still just represent a small market share in Britain.

What Should Be Next For Electric Vehicles: Real All-Wheel Steering

If you’ve ever struggled to parallel park a car (or any vehicle), you can understand why there have been some crazy ideas over the years about how this complex maneuver can be better achieved through technology. At times, the solution has been effective, and not completely inelegant. But alas, cost and complexity have conspired to keep keep bumper makers and driving schools in business all these years.

ARENA to invest $15 million for EV charging network expansion in Australia

Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced that it will invest $15 million in Evie Networks to expand ultra-fast battery electric vehicle charging network along Australia’s highways. In 2018, ARENA and CEFC published a report predicting that EVs will increase significantly in the next decade. A lack of fast charging infrastructure was identified as a barrier for the growth of electric vehicles.

Electric cars can’t cut UK carbon emissions while only the wealthy can afford to own one

The Register

Analysis UK government efforts to offset carbon emissions via the adoption of electric cars were last week slammed by the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee. According to the panel’s report into the matter, almost 20,000 conventional cars would need to be removed from the road every week for the next 31 years, if the UK is to meet its goal of having “almost every car and van” be “zero emission” by 2050.

The average electric car in the US is getting cheaper

Quartz

In June, conventional SUVs and light trucks were the most popular vehicles in America accounting for 70% of sales. They also got more expensive—the median retail price for all vehicles in the US was $36,600, an increase of 2% compared to last year.

Can power napping solve electric car charging challenge?

Automakers around the world are pushing hard for new networks that can charge electric cars fast. In Europe, some power companies and grid operators are testing whether it might be smarter and cheaper to move into the slow lane. A 15-month study of electric car charging behaviour in Germany has concluded that consumers can be persuaded to accept slow, overnight recharging that could help avoid brownouts from surges in electricity demand or costly upgrades to power grids.

1,000 new electric car charge points ‘too little’

Plans for 1,000 new electric vehicle charging points to be provided by local authorities over the next five years are not ambitious enough, the Green Party has said. Richard Bruton, the climate action minster, said yesterday that the move would help provide the infrastructure for the government’s target of almost one million electric vehicles on the road by 2030.

Lithium hit by oversupply and electric vehicle subsidy cuts

Financial Times

The rise of the electric car was once a boon for the lithium industry, which produces the critical raw material for all batteries used in the vehicles. But this year has been bleak. Prices for the industry’s core product, lithium carbonate, have sunk 13 per cent, according to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, knocking profits for the largest producers and wiping out most of the leading producers’ share price gains since the beginning of 2016.

How Amsterdam plans to power a city of electric cars

CNN

Amsterdam has bold plans to ban all gasoline and diesel vehicles from the city by 2030. But if it is to meet that target, it has only a decade to build the infrastructure to power a city of electric cars. As part of the plan, from next year certain diesel vehicles will be banned from Amsterdam’s city center. From 2022, buses and coaches will only be allowed in the city center if they have electric or hydrogen-powered engines, and by 2030, all transportation in the city must be emissions free.

Electric vehicles have ‘higher carbon emissions’

The Australian

Electric vehicles in Australia’s eastern states are responsible for more carbon dioxide emissions than regular petrol vehicles, according to an expert report that warns Labor’s green cars policy would require up to $7 billion in upgrades and installation of recharging infrastructure across the nation.

Volkswagen to install 4,000 EV charging points in Germany by 2025

Volkswagen is planning to install around 4,000 charging points for electric vehicles at its German plans by 2025. Also, combined with the dealerships, the group is providing around 36,000 new charging points across Europe. The first charging station has been already installed with 60 new charging points. The German automobile group is investing around €250 million for expanding the charging infrastructure at its European sites.

Access Rather Than Demand Is A Big Issue For Most EVs

Inside EVs

A common thread spun by defenders of the internal combustion engine is that there’s no demand for electric vehicles. That’s simply not true, there is in fact an underserved demand for electric cars because they aren’t easily accessible.

Europe’s Auto Finances Under Threat As Electric Era Starts

The era of the electric car will kick off at the Frankfurt Auto Show next month after many false dawns, but the European industry in general and the German one in particular face a wide ranging assault on profits from an imminent recession, tariff wars, Brexit, spending on new technology, and the existential threat of massive EU fines for infractions of CO2 regulations.

New electric car battery technology could allow vehicles to be recharged in six minutes

Express

A new battery technology company is preparing to commercialise new technology which could lead to rapid charging times. Echion Technologies, the Sawston-based battery specialist born out of Cambridge University, is looking to bring the battery tech to both smartphones and electric cars. The firm claims that the recharging times could drop to as little as six minutes. Currently, rapid charging times are around 45-minutes or in some exceptions 30-minutes for a decent amount of range.

In The Future, Wind Energy Could Join Forces With Electric Vehicles To Power More Of The Grid

Engineering and Technology

On the roads of the future, pollution could become a thing of the past. Globally, the uptake of electric vehicles has surged as drivers seek to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cars, trucks and buses. But this burgeoning demand for electric vehicles is starting to overload existing energy grids as more drivers join the hunt for a charge.

How AI is unlocking battery technology that will power the future of electric vehicles

The stakes for the global battery market are incredibly high. Some predictions estimate that it will be worth over £250bn per year from 2025, with the possible creation of four million jobs in the EU alone. And batteries – already essential for most consumer goods – will be even more vital for widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

BYD’s profit triples as China’s electric car boom continues

Chinese electric car maker BYD Co Ltd posted a 203.6% rise in first-half profit on Wednesday, as China’s new energy vehicle market continues to surge. The Shenzhen-based company, which is backed by U.S. investor Warren Buffett and whose products include battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, posted net profit of 1.45 billion yuan ($205.29 million), up from 479.10 million yuan a year earlier.

In Tesla-Crazy Norway, the Electric Vehicle Revolution Is Already Here

Until he moved to Norway, Michael Arup had never owned a car. But when the banker and his family moved from Copenhagen, Denmark to the Norwegian capital of Oslo in 2016, they decided a vehicle was a necessity. So they did as the Norwegians now do, and bought a Tesla Model-S.

GM, Chinese EV Partner Showcase New Car That May Turn Out To Be The Bolt SUV

Numerous legacy carmakers have been saying for the past few years that electric vehicles are the future of their companies, but EVs in the showrooms are still few and far between. GM is one of those companies, saying back in 2017 that they would have 20 electric models by 2023, a date that’s fast approaching.

Electric Car Gold Rush: The Auto Industry Charges Into China

In a drab industrial zone of western Shanghai, amid factories that each year crank out hundreds of thousands of gasoline-powered cars, transmissions, and engines, the world’s largest automaker is racing to finish a new sort of plant, one that will produce a car unlike any it has made before.

Do You Want An Electric Vehicle? What May Be Holding You Back

Do you own an electric vehicle yet? Are you considering buying one? Why or why not? Bonnie Datta, Senior Director of Regulatory Affairs and Market Development, Americas and Southeast Asia at Siemens, has been on the front lines of the electric vehicle industry for the past several years and has a unique perspective on why these eco-friendly vehicles are still only a fraction of the total vehicle market.

Electrify America aims to get more drivers interested in electric cars with ‘Normal Now’ campaign

The Drum

At one time, email and online dating seemed weird and a bit creepy. Now, both activities are a part of the modern landscape. That’s the concept behind Electrify America’s new campaign to get electric cars into the mainstream. Electrify America and San-Francisco-based agency Eleven, launched a brand-neutral digital marketing campaign, ‘Normal Now,’ that aims to normalize electric car and zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ownership in the US.

Sales of premium diesel cars down 95% in Norway as Tesla eats into market share

Sales of some diesel car models were down more than 95 per cent over the past six years in norway, according to Rystad Energy, an independent energy research firm. “Sales of certain diesel models are in free-fall as Norwegians turn to Tesla and other makers of premium electric vehicles (EVs),” the research firm said in a press release.

Shell debuts electric vehicle chargers in Singapore, first in SE Asia

Royal Dutch Shell is launching electric vehicle chargers at petrol stations in Singapore, its first such foray in Southeast Asia, the company said on Monday. The electric vehicle charging service, ‘Shell Recharge’, will be available at 10 Shell petrol stations in Singapore by October, this year or about 20% of its retail network in the city-state, the company said in a statement.

More EV charging stations than fuel stations in the UK now

July 2019 saw the UK record a sharp rise in demand for EVs, pushing electric cars to their highest-ever share of the UK car market, while sales of diesel and plug-in hybrid cars continued to fall. What’s helping the charge of electric mobility and the increasing adoption of EVs amongst UK motorists is the growth in the number of EV charging stations.

Norway’s Electric Car Revolution Spearheaded by the Richest

Almost half the cars sold in Norway are now electric. Much of the success of electric vehicles in Norway is owed to generous tax incentives and exemptions from various fees. The surge in electric car sales even resulted in a shortfall in automobile taxes of about 3 billion kroner ($335 million) in this year’s budget.

Sales of electric vehicles in China are finally slowing

Quartz

China’s electric-car market is taking a breather after two years of rapid growth. Monthly sales of new-energy vehicles (NEV), including battery and hybrids, declined 4.7% from July 2018 to 80,000 units last month, the latest data from China’s biggest auto industry association (link in Chinese) show. The last time the sector posted a monthly decline in sales was in January 2017, when the number plunged 74.4% from a year earlier, as people were waiting for the government to clarify its subsidy policy for the year.

Platinum giant wants in on batteries to ease electric car threat

The world’s top platinum and palladium supplier has an answer to the electric-car boom that may pose a long-term threat to its biggest market: invent a new battery. Anglo American Platinum Ltd. wants to develop a lithium battery that uses platinum-group metals instead of cobalt and nickel. The aim is to create a new multi-billion dollar source of demand for the metals as electric vehicles reduce the need for traditional fuel autocatalysts.

How Energy Companies Can Ignite the Electric Vehicle Revolution

In the U.S., their numbers are small but growing fast, and they are growing even faster in other countries. They’re a key part of every automaker’s long-term strategy. After years of anticipation, the market for electric vehicles (EV) is shifting into high gear in America.

Mursix invests in PolyCharge for EV technology development

PolyCharge America, a capacitor product manufacturer has secured a strategic investment from Mursix Corporation’s investment arm SFM Holdings, informed the company in a release. The Arizona-based capacitor technology company is a spin-off of the Sigma Technologies. Formed in 2017, it has a long-standing partnership with Delphi Technologies to commercialize its NanoLam technology.

Foreign auto cos shrinking conventional portfolio to focus on EVs

Amidst the tightening emission norms and concern about vehicular pollution, several global auto manufacturers are shrinking their current ICE powered product lineup to focus more on electric and electrified vehicles. A report claims that tough financial situations ad softening sales for German luxury car manufacturers have pushed them to trim the conventional internal combustion engine-powered models.

UK govt to invest £2.5 million for EV charging points

In a bid to make owning and charging of electric vehicles more convenient, the Britain government on Monday announced an investment of £2.5 million to fund the installation of about 1,000 new charge points. According to media reports, these charging points will be installed on residential roads to support the on-street residential charge points scheme.

Nissan, BMW, VW in talks to help South Africa switch to electric vehicles

Nissan Motor Co., BMW AG and Volkswagen AG are among carmakers in talks to bring the electric-car revolution to South Africa, as the nation’s auto-factory floors risk being left behind in the global switch to greener vehicles. The industry is preparing a unified stance on electrification to present to the government by the end of the year, Mike Mabasa, chief executive officer of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, or Naamsa, said in an interview.

Government’s electric vehicle fast lane is doomed to stall

The evidence for climate change is indisputable. Global temperatures are rising, so are sea levels, and the frequency and severity of extreme weather events is increasing. Habitable land is threatened, food production is challenged, and political instability is likely to increase from these climate events. As the consequences will affect all our lives, the responsibility to respond without delay cannot be shirked.

Gold Is Hot But Nickel Is Hotter As Demand Grows For Batteries In Electric Vehicles

Gold is hot but there’s another metal which is hotter, nickel. Up 30% over the past two months nickel has delivered more than double the performance of gold which is up 13% over the same time, and the gap could get a lot wider as the supply of nickel stagnates and demand accelerates.

An inconvenient truth about electric cars

It was a chilly morning when Geoff Hands set out from his home in Christchurch, Dorset, on a round trip to a garden centre 110 miles away in Devon. He was behind the wheel of a £29,000 electric car — the Hyundai Ioniq he had bought a few days before. A former patent lawyer with a keen interest in technology, Hands had used his spare time in retirement to read up on zero-emission cars and was ready, as he put it, to plug into the electric dream.

Daimler teams up with BAIC Motor to develop 2nd-life battery storage

German multinational automotive Daimler with its battery energy storage subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Energy has recently entered into a partnership with Beijing Electric Vehicle Co. (BJEV) to develop second-life battery storage for Chinese market. The partnership will see a consolidation of expertise and resources regarding the value-chain of automotive battery systems, while laying the groundwork for a sustainable renewable energy development, Daimler said in a release.

General Motors partners with EV Connect for EV charging

American auto manufacturer General Motors has joined hands with EV Connect to improve the charging experience for the Chevrolet Bolt EV drivers by providing dynamic charging station data, including insights on station status, informs the company in a release.

Glencore and the perils of riding the electric vehicle tiger: Andy Home

Glencore has “a key role to play in enabling the transition to a low-carbon economy,” according to Chief Executive Officer Ivan Glasenberg, writing in the company’s 2018 annual report. Glencore’s “well-positioned portfolio” includes metals at the heart of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution such as copper, cobalt and nickel.

Europe’s battery leadership can help clean up the global metals supply chain

Quartz

Lithium-ion batteries hold the key to a future powered by clean energy. By enabling electric cars, ships, and planes, this versatile energy-storage medium is bound to help cut pollutants and greenhouse gases. But all that progress will come at a cost. Battery manufacturing requires large amounts of metals, some of which, like copper and aluminum, are plentiful and easy to mine. The rarer materials like cobalt and lithium, though, often come from places rife with war and child labor.

Nissan partners with EVgo to install EV charging infra in US

Japanese auto manufacturer Nissan has joined hands with EVgo to set up electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the US. Under, their joint venture, these two companies will install 200 direct current fast chargers (DCFC) across the US over the next six years. Each of these new DCFCs is capable of delivering 100 kW and have both CHAdeMO and CCS connectors that will benefit the EV owners, claims the company in a release.

Tesla’s Megapack Battery Ambitions Could Drain Cobalt Supply

From large facilities to electric vehicles powered by Tesla batteries, the one thing they have in common are the origins of a key component called cobalt. This metal which resides primarily in Africa is used by nearly every major tech company and automakers alike, with Tesla pushing the boundaries due to its new Megapack battery product for utility-scale projects.

British All-Electric Car Market Surges By 158% In July 2019

Inside EVs

All-electric cars once again sell in higher numbers than plug-in hybrids, which were more popular for 54 months (between December 2014 and May 2019). Mixed results come from the British plug-in electric car market – BEV sales more than doubled in July, while PHEV shrunk by half.

Daimler Buses develops flexible, modular EV charging concept

Preparing for the market launch of high-output charging, Daimler Buses has equipped its Mannheim bus plant in Germany with a central charging station for the fully-electric eCitaro. It can also be used to provide the newly released eCitaro with electricity via a pantograph.

The top miners are split on how to chase the EV battery boom

The world’s biggest miners, including BHP Group and Glencore Plc, are finally firm believers in the electric vehicle battery revolution — what they don’t agree on is which metals will deliver the best long-term exposure to the developing global market.

China will drive electric vehicle revolution driven by its battery industry

The electric vehicle revolution is coming, but it won’t be driven by the U. S. Instead, China will be at the forefront. My research on EVs, dating back a decade, convinces me that this global transformation in mobility, from petroleum-fueled vehicles to electric ones, will come sooner than later.

Oil Needs to Fall Below $20 to Compete With Green Alternatives

Wind and solar power can produce seven times more useful energy for cars, dollar for dollar, than gasoline with oil prices near current levels, according to BNP Paribas SA. Oil will have fall to $9-$10 a barrel in the long-term in order for gasoline cars to remain competitive with clean-powered electric vehicles, and to $17-$19 a barrel for diesel, Mark Lewis, global head of sustainability research at BNP’s asset management unit, said in a research report.

Australia being left behind in global shift towards electric vehicles

The New Daily

Australia is increasingly falling behind the world in the adoption of electric vehicles, leaving drivers at risk of being stranded. A new report by European NGO Transport and Environment (T&E) – using data from global Research firm IHS Markit – found the electric vehicle market will reach a “tipping point” in 2020-21, when the cars are predicted to become a “mainstream” market.

Shared e-scooters aren’t as environmentally friendly as other transport options

People who think electric scooters or e-scooters are environmentally friendly, take note! A new study has found that e-scooters may be greener than most cars, but they can be less green than several other options. “E-scooter companies tout themselves as having little or no carbon footprint, which is a bold statement,” said Jeremiah Johnson, the corresponding author of the study.

Batteries may rewire world’s power grids, spell trouble for utility firms

It’s just a marketing gimmick. But it casts a spell. A pale orange-and-gold sunset bathes the macadamia plantations and avocado orchards that sweep down to Australia’s Byron Bay. The coming dusk is a cue for two sleek Tesla battery packs in the garage at Amileka, a secluded holiday villa nearby. They stir silently into action—powering the appliances in the five-bedroom home’s twin kitchens, recharging a $100,000-plus Model X SUV, driving a filter pump for an 18-meter swimming pool sparkling in the shade of a century-old native black bean tree.

A game changer is coming for electric car owners

CNN

Electric cars are getting cheaper and they can go farther on a single charge. Still, most car shoppers have one big concern: How will I keep an electric car charged while I’m on a long road trip?

Lithium industry buildup Is outracing the electric-car boom

Lithium miners are bulking up for a booming future when electric cars go mainstream. But speed bumps loom, with prices tumbling on a burst of new production and demand growth slowing in China. Between mid-2015 and mid-2018, prices for lithium, the soft, silvery-white metal crucial for rechargeable batteries, almost tripled as the world’s fleet of electric vehicles hit the 5 million mark, and the auto industry began to fret over the supply of raw materials.

Indonesia plans incentives to boost electric vehicle industry

Indonesia plans a series of incentives to boost production of electric vehicles (EVs), according to a copy of a draft regulation reviewed by Reuters. Southeast Asia’s largest economy wants EV manufacturers and battery makers to create a downstream industry for its supplies of nickel laterite ore, which is used in lithium batteries.

How China became a fertile ground for foreign EV investments?

As the future mobility trend is swiftly gravitating towards electric amidst stringent emission regulations, many global automakers are making inroads into the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market. The reason is the market offers advantage of easy accessibility of resources and open business environment.

US consumers expect changes in energy supplies, autos in 10 years: Survey