On the occasion of the World EV Day ( September 9, 2023), we stand at the crossroads of a defining moment in human history – a moment when the wheels of innovation, sustainability and progress converge. As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, air pollution, and the depletion of finite fossil fuel resources, the call for a shift in the approach to mobility has never been clearer. In India, electric mobility is emerging as a game-changer, offering a way to reduce emissions, combat urban pollution and a sustainable transportation ecosystem.Two compelling narratives
While we celebrate World EV Day and focus our synergies on protecting the earth, we must also focus on the two compelling narratives around us.
The first is the development of charging infrastructure, which still is in the early stages in India. The lack of availability of and accessibility to charging infrastructure still restrict the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike gasoline stations, charging stations are not ubiquitous, especially in rural areas. Building a comprehensive and convenient charging network is essential to encourage more people to switch to EVs. This includes fast-charging stations for long-distance travel and home and workplace charging options for daily commuting.
Secondly, despite the advancements in-cell technology, range anxiety still persists among consumers. The fear of an EV running out of charge before reaching its destination or a charging station remains a concern to many potential buyers. Overcoming range anxiety requires not only expanding charging infrastructure, but also improving battery technology, and educating consumers about the actual capabilities of EVs.
Importance of commercial EVs
Smarter and greener solutions are inevitable as India progresses towards fulfilling its environmental commitments by 2030. The needs of an economy poised to grow multi-fold could only be enabled by commercial electric vehicles (CEVs) which act as key drivers in the transition to cleaner and more efficient transportation. And, by embracing CEVs, we can reduce emissions significantly, enhance air quality and pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable mobility future.
CEVs are pivotal in the quest to reduce pollution in cities. These vehicles, including electric buses, delivery vans, and trucks, hold immense promise due to their predictable routes and high daily mileage. By transitioning commercial fleets to electric, we can significantly curb urban pollution. Diesel-powered commercial vehicles are major contributors to air pollution, emitting harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, which have detrimental effects on human health. Electric commercial vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, immediately improving air quality and mitigating health issues. Moreover, they operate silently, reducing noise pollution, particularly during late-night and early-morning deliveries. As cities worldwide grapple with environmental and public health challenges, the adoption of CEVs represents a tangible and effective step toward cleaner, more sustainable urban transportation, benefiting both the environment and the well-being of city dwellers.
Changing consumer priority
Contemporary statistics indicate that the environment is not just a corporate buzzword but a consumer priority. A survey of Gen-Z and millennials in the United States revealed that 69.5% considered environmental impact a critical factor in their decision-making. Likewise, a study conducted in Japan in 2022 found that environmentally aware consumers were willing to pay extra for products manufactured in an ethical and environmentally responsible manner. These insights underline the growing significance of eco-consciousness among consumers, emphasizing the need for businesses to align their strategies with sustainable practices to meet the evolving demands and preferences of today’s conscientious shoppers.
Observations of GreenCell’s consumers have been equally captivating. Since our establishment in 2019, GreenCell has provided e-bus services to several customers through its fleet of 830 electric buses. Impressively, a growing number of first-time riders are joining our e-bus service through word-of-mouth recommendations, and these newcomers are more likely to become repeat customers.
The availability of affordable, dependable, and eco-friendly transportation options is essential to increase trust among the customers and make the transition to electric mobility faster. From an operational standpoint, over the past three years, GreenCell has achieved remarkable savings in diesel and substantial reduction in tail-pipe emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem in India. At GreenCell, we’re changing the way people travel and benefiting the environment.
(Disclaimer: Devndra Chawla is the CEO & MD of GreenCell Mobility.Views are personal)
