Written by adminAugust 10, 2023

Electric 2 And 3-Wheelers: Transforming India’s Urban Mobility

The introduction of E-vehicles or electric vehicles has become a necessity these days. It is no longer a luxury. The reason is because of increasing pollution resulting in global warming. The Earth, as a whole, has been experiencing rising temperatures in the last few years. Respective governments worldwide are proactively taking steps to curb pollution and reverse the otherwise gloomy situation.

Launch of E-Vehicles  

Electric 2, 3, and 4-wheelers have become popular globally. Governments and manufacturers have kept short-term and long-term goals to replace fossil-run vehicles with green ones. The process is only gaining a significant foothold with time. Developing countries are already ahead in the race to protect the Earth. Developing countries like India have also joined the race.

Alternative transportation services

Many brands have launched two and three-wheelers of different models for personal and commercial use in India. Electric 2 and 3-wheelers are the perfect choice to offer last-mile connections. The reason is they provide affordable, quick transportation services. They are the best choice to address growing pollution concerns in a densely populated country like India.

Overcoming challenges

The increasing population and rapid urbanization have posed challenges while providing sustainable, efficient last-mile transportation solutions. EVs and DC fast charging stations are promising alternatives. Electric 3-wheelers occupy 28% or more space in EV volumes in India. The last-mile transportation segment is witnessing changes beneficial for the country and its citizens. These vehicles ensure controlling pollution while providing decent transportation.

Rapid urbanization

It is the primary cause of the economic growth of the country. Cities are expanding rapidly and absorbing neighboring towns and villages, converting them into 2 and 3-tier cities. However, in urban areas, living conditions are affected gravely by emigration. They face challenges in the form of poor last-mile connectivity. Electric 2 and 3-wheelers are undoubtedly the best choice for the masses as a last-mile transportation option. 

Last-mile connections

For last-mile connections, electric 2 and 3-wheelers are the ideal choice. They offer affordable, quick transportation services. Economics mainly drives last-mile transportation in India, thus ensuring significant cost differences. The electric 2 and 3-wheeler revolution has touched many Indian cities. Public charging stations are installed at key places to provide power to e-vehicles. The mission is to achieve zero-emission.

Improving landscape

EV 2 and 3-wheelers are improving last-mile delivery in the commercial and business landscape. EV sales volume growth in the current fiscal year is satisfactory. With this segment growing fast, last-mile logistics providers should contribute more. For the electric mobility revolution in the country, the shift witnessed is a primary acceleration. EVs enable low-cost operation. They even cover distances similar to conventional ICE vehicles. 

Commercial and Environmental benefits

Since fewer moving parts are present in EVs, it invites lower maintenance costs. Besides, frequent oil changes are not necessary. Electricity is also lesser when compared to petrol or diesel, thus ensuring reduced refueling costs. The Indian government provides tax benefits and subsidies to boost EV adoption. Thus owning 2 and 3-wheeler EVs is attracting investors and drivers in large numbers.

Transforming India’s last-mile transportation

EV 2/3-wheelers have proved to be an environment-friendly, affordable, and sustainable mode of transportation. Its widespread adoption has helped reduce carbon emissions and pollution. At the same time, it has managed to improve livelihoods by generating employment opportunities. Significant environmental benefits are offered over conventional petrol/diesel-powered counterparts. They ensure zero tailpipe emissions, improving air quality, especially in heavily populated urban areas. It also combats climate change.

Supporting Livelihood

EV 2/3-wheelers impact drivers’ livelihoods significantly, especially those belonging to the unorganized sector. It offers affordable transportation means to cover short distances. Moreover, it helps transport passengers and deliver goods to destinations. The low initial investment is necessary to own e-rickshaws, unlike traditional auto-rickshaws. They are accessible easily nowadays and are better options for those seeking additional income sources or self-employment.

Favorable policies and infrastructure

The government has realized the need to install charging stations throughout the length and breadth of the country in all accessible areas of cities and towns. Hence, charging infrastructure is boosted to support the growing demand for EVs. Public and private players are choosing strategic locations to establish charging stations. It includes transportation hubs, residential areas, and commercial hubs. 

Other government initiatives

To promote Electric vehicles among the masses, the government has introduced a ‘Faster EV Manufacturing Adoption’ scheme referred to in short as ‘FAME’. Proactive measures taken can help boost EV adoption through incentives and diverse policies. This scheme offers buyers attractive financial incentives, thus making EVs cost-effective. Ambitious targets are set for electrification to ensure maximum electric-operated vehicles run on the roads by 2030.

Saving the planet

Besides addressing growing pollution concerns, EVs are doing their bit to save the planet. It is successfully transforming India’s urban mobility. The future is all about electric vehicles in all forms and, there is no denying this fact!

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Written by adminMarch 21, 2023

Charging ahead: Getting Indian cities electric-vehicle ready

With the world’s half population residing in cities and growing steadily at a fast pace, the need for a greener planet is felt. Countries from all continents have pledged to reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, developing countries like India have adopted policies to promote Electric Vehicle usage. By 2030, there are expected lakhs of fast chargers to meet the changing demands of an increasing number of EVs.

Increasing population and pollution

By 2050, cities across the globe are expected to witness significant population growth by around 66%. Indian population residing in cities by that time will touch around 60%. However, cities comprise just two percent of the world’s landmass. It is likely to leave behind an enormous footprint concerning climate impact. This will mean, about two-thirds of global energy will be consumed while emitting 70% of carbon dioxide.

Meeting mobility challenges

India is known for its expansive landscape, thus making mobility a major challenge. By 2030, the vehicle population is also expected to witness a significant surge from 160 million units to about 550 million. India relies heavily on crude oil imports. About 80% of oil is imported from other oil-producing countries, thus spending $235 million. The question is how to ensure basic life quality and sustainable living.

Protecting the environment

The other concern is global warming whose effects are already being felt on almost all continents. India’s energy security can be improved by considering vehicular electrification and adopting cleaner transportation methods. This can provide a sustainable progress path, reduce greenhouse gases as well as ensure a conducive environment. Plug-in hybrid and battery EVs are slowly, but steadily gaining prominence as a mode of transportation.

Need for charging infrastructure

The EV segment is projected to have decent growth. It facilitates the development of an accessible and consistent network of charging stations on streets and homes. Electric Vehicles are enjoying increased sales these days due to increasing awareness among the public about their benefits. Also, battery prices are becoming cheaper with the usage of advanced technology. More ev charging stations in India are needed.

Promoting infrastructure

Improved air quality and lower maintenance costs are what attract potential users to capitalize on its benefits. An increased number of EVs on roads, of all types, will mean an increase in the need for public charging stations. Hence, cities should lay the essential groundwork to make the place ‘EV ready’. This way, the challenges of meeting energy demands by increasing the number of EVs can be met. 

Electrifying transportation modes

Developed nations have already started to support electrifying their transportation mode aggressively to counter carbon emissions. Taxis, carpools, and buses are all being electrified. The private sector has been investing in infrastructure development and public charging infrastructure. Parking facilities and commercial buildings are being roped in to support EVs. Favorable policies are desired to drive forward EV technology and battery. 

Increasing global EV sales

When sales of EVs are concerned, China is projected as the leader. 2018’s first quarter saw EV sales touching 142,445 which is a sharp increase of 154% over 2017’s initial quarterly sales. On the other hand, a 48% increase in sales was witnessed in Norway from 35%. Even in the U.K., sales have increased to 11%.

Facilities offered

The above countries are reported to have offered preferential access to EVs to enable safe parking facilities. Also are offered access to toll roads, carpool lanes, and bus lanes. Several cities and countries suffering from air quality issues are stated to exercise greater control concerning access offered to EVs, thereby enabling better promotion. 

Sales in India

India is projected to experience growth of 30% in 2 and 4-wheeler EV vehicles. This will mean these vehicles will require just 3 to 4 percent of the power generation that is used today. There might emerge additional requirements upon the available grids, for which concerns should be identified and sorted out. 

Charging needs

Short-range vehicles such as personal cars need a stable power supply. Hence, they can be charged at the convenience of a home setting. There will be needed proactive planning and analysis to avoid network infrastructure-related issues. Policy changes introduced can help the country to save about 64% of road-based mobility energy demands. Also can be reduced 37% of carbon emissions.

Saving resources

To achieve and surpass the set goals by 2030, the government and private sectors alike have to pursue, a connected, shared, and electric mobility future. It can help reduce annual petrol and diesel consumption by approximately 156 million tonnes. If crude oil is purchased at $52/bbl, then net savings will be roughly around $60 billion (3.9 lakh crore) in 2030.

Researches

Studies conducted have revealed that about 4,900 DCFC (Direct-Current Fast Charging) stations will have to be installed in Indian cities. Only 400 DCFC stations will be desired in interstate corridors. To promote EV sales, seamless charging stations will have to be developed in cities. Indian Cities that have been trying to get the future ready to match the needs of increasing needs of EVs are Mumbai and Delhi. 

Meeting Charging station requirements

There is a growing need to establish charging stations at different strategic locations spread across the city. It includes neighborhoods, highways, business hubs, and popular business hubs. Chargers installed here should monitor the charging status of the car’s battery as well as units consumed during charging. This can help boost EV sales considerably.

Future requirements

In the capital city Delhi, by 2030, there will be needed 300,000 fast chargers considering the increase in EVs by 30%. Taxis are likely to comprise around 12% and are expected to be the main users of these fast chargers. Hence, trying to match this increasing requirement will need an infrastructure investment of about $1 – $1.5 billion. 

Consider the costs

With the low penetration of EVs in the country, investing in fast-charging infrastructure is found to be a costly affair. Besides meeting standard costs such as operating costs and fixed assets, driving range, battery cost, charger cost, and charging technology have a greater say on infrastructure expenses. EV penetration pace in the country can be increased by mixing the ‘push & pull’ strategy.

Supportive government

To ensure an increase in Electric Vehicle sales and promote charging stations, the government needs to adopt a supportive ecosystem. It should also establish stringent regulations considering carbon emissions. There should be boosted both AC and DC charging stations to accommodate all types of Electric Vehicles.

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