World EV Day 2024: Powering The Global Shift To Electric Mobility

What began as a niche segment in the auto industry has now grown into one of its most dynamic areas, with electric vehicles driving the charge toward sustainability. Governments worldwide are implementing strict emissions regulations and offering tax incentives, pushing manufacturers to accelerate their transition from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric powertrains.

However, the road to full electrification isn’t without its challenges. Charging infrastructure remains a significant bottleneck. While the number of charging stations is growing exponentially, the gap between the number of EVs on the road and charging points remains wide. In many emerging markets, inadequate infrastructure is holding back EV adoption and India is no different. 

As the auto industry undergoes its most significant transformation in over a century, this World EV Day is a reminder to build a sustainable future and here’s what the Indian EV Industry said on this World EV Day: -

Electric Four-wheeler Manufacturer

Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India, said "World EV Day is more than a celebration; it’s a global commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. At Volvo Car India, we fully embrace this vision with our C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge cars that deliver zero tailpipe emissions and use recyclable materials to reduce environmental impact. Our goal is to become climate-neutral by 2040, leading the way towards sustainable mobility. Together, with the power of innovation and shared responsibility, we are paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow”

Electric Two-wheeler Manufacturer

Manu Saxena, Senior Vice President, EV Business, TVS Motor Company, said “World EV Day is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and the exciting future that lies ahead in green mobility. India is poised to lead the world in electric vehicle innovation, driven by our strides toward ‘atmanirbhar’ design, engineering, and supply chain excellence. This day celebrates India’s growing prowess in creating world-class EVs that set new standards in performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.”

“In celebration of World EV Day 2024, Zelio Ebikes reaffirms its commitment to advancing electric mobility and environmental sustainability. Since we entered the market in 2021, we have been dedicated to developing innovative electric two-wheelers that combine cutting-edge technology with practical design. On this special day, we celebrate our achievements and remain committed to driving progress toward a greener, more sustainable future,” said Kunal Arya, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Zelio Ebikes.

“The electric vehicle revolution is not just a technological shift but a critical step towards a cleaner, greener future. At GT Force, we're proud to be at the forefront of this movement, offering innovative and cost-effective electric two-wheelers that cater to the diverse needs of the Indian market. Our focus on local manufacturing, rigorous safety standards, and continuous technological advancements reflect our dedication to delivering reliable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. We believe that through collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a sustainable future, we can drive meaningful change in the industry and beyond.” said Mukesh Taneja, CEO and Co-founder of GT Force.

Electric Commercial Vehicle Manufacturer

Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VECV, said, “The government has set an ambitious program to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles including electric commercial vehicles (E-CVs). To make this a reality and promote EV adoption, various policies such as FAME, PM e-bus seva, and PLI schemes have been introduced. As India moves towards its Amrit Kaal, electric vehicles will play a crucial role in the journey towards a carbon-neutral nation.

Aligning with the government's efforts to promote sustainable transportation, VE Commercial Vehicles offers modern and sustainable transportation solutions to customers through the Eicher and Volvo brands in India. To enable efficient asset utilisation, all Eicher and Volvo trucks and buses are supported by a 100 per cent connected ecosystem with AI-based diagnostics, which enables us to deliver on our promise of increased productivity and uptime for our customers. We anticipate an increase in customer adoption of electric and clean technology vehicles as charging infrastructure expands and green energy becomes more accessible."

Rampraveen Swaminathan, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Logistics, said “The logistics sector is at a pivotal juncture, with a significant opportunity to reduce carbon emissions, especially in last-mile operations. India's target of achieving 100 per cent electric last-mile logistics by 2030 is not just an ambitious goal—it also represents a transformative shift for the industry and the environment. As part of our Green Logistics ecosystem – Edel, we have deployed over 1,600 EVs across more than 20 cities along with 70+ charging infrastructures in the last-mile delivery segment.

In people and enterprise mobility space, we are witnessing and supporting a rapid increase in EV adoption, particularly in metropolitan areas. We have launched fully electric sites in the enterprise mobility segment for our clients while continuing to expand our electric fleet for airport taxi services. Furthermore, as part of our commitment to sustainability, we are investing INR 360 million in additional EVs and charging infrastructure. To achieve true electrification, collaboration between the industry players and the government is essential to accelerate the development of an interoperable fast-charging network, thereby driving larger EV adoption. On World EV Day, we urge to lead India’s electric transition collaboratively and set a global standard for sustainable logistics.”

Hyder Khan, CEO & Director of Godawari Electric Motors, highlighted the importance of expanding the focus beyond passenger vehicles. “On World EV Day, we celebrate the strides made toward a sustainable future, but we recognize that focusing solely on passenger vehicles won’t suffice in achieving carbon neutrality,” Khan remarked. Godawari Electric Motors is set to launch the Eblu Cety, an e-rickshaw designed to make a significant environmental impact. Khan emphasized that their vision extends beyond product creation, aiming to inspire the industry to adopt a more comprehensive approach to green mobility.

Devndra Chawla, MD & CEO, GreenCell Mobility, said "On World EV Day, GreenCell Mobility reaffirms its commitment to India’s bold promise of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing us today and the transport sector is the largest contributor. Buses are the backbone of India’s mass mobility system, yet electric buses contribute to only 1 per cent of the total fleet. Transitioning existing diesel buses to electric will significantly reduce carbon emissions, enhance passenger comfort, and lower overall urban pollution. GreenCell Mobility has been enabling this transformative journey, electrifying both intra-city and inter-city travel across India. We are building a platform to provide Electric Mobility-as-a-Service (e-MaaS) and delivering the core value proposition of non-polluting on-demand shared transportation. We are creating a comprehensive ecosystem for electric mobility, with our own charging infrastructure, bus depots, maintenance facilities and guest lounges. Since inception, our electric buses have avoided over 130 million kgs of CO2 emissions. NueGo has also emerged as India’s largest intercity electric bus brand. In just two years, NueGo has achieved over 45 million emission-free kilometers, transporting over 5 million passengers across 110+ cities.

Looking ahead, the electrification of India’s bus fleet will be a game changer in our quest for a sustainable, zero-emissions future. With continued government support and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders, we are confident that India will lead the global EV revolution. Electric vehicles are a testament to our shared responsibility in combating climate change and ensuring a cleaner, greener planet for future generations.

EV Component Maker

Shradha Suri Marwah, President, ACMA & CMD, Subros, shared her thoughts on the evolving role of auto component manufacturers in the electric vehicle space. She quoted "On World EV Day, we recognise the transformative role our auto component industry is playing in shaping India’s journey toward sustainable mobility. The transition to electric vehicles is more than just a technological shift—it is a redefinition of how we move, with a deep commitment to the environment. India’s auto component manufacturers are leading this charge, pioneering essential innovations in EV-specific components such as batteries and motors.
In the past year, our industry achieved a remarkable turnover of ₹6.14 lakh crore, with the EV segment contributing ₹36,840 crore, representing 6 per cent of our total output. These figures are a testament to our industry’s dynamic growth and potential. As we continue on this path, prioritising research, innovation, and strategic partnerships will be key to navigating challenges and seizing global opportunities.

With the right support and focus, India is poised to become a global leader in producing world-class EV components, reinforcing our unwavering commitment to a greener, more sustainable future."

Sunjay J Kapur, Chairman, Sona Comstar & Deputy Chairman, CII Northern Region, has shared his thoughts on the future of electric mobility and India’s potential in driving this transformation. Please find his quote below for your consideration:

“On this World EV Day, we celebrate the global momentum towards electric vehicles—a crucial step in our journey towards sustainable mobility. The drive for an electrified ecosystem is more than a mere trend; it represents a global commitment to reducing carbon emissions and building a greener planet. India is at a pivotal juncture, with the potential to become a leading global hub for EV manufacturing, provided we continue to prioritise innovation supported by a robust policy framework.

Strategic partnerships will be essential in overcoming structural challenges, improving efficiencies, and accelerating EV adoption by establishing a comprehensive charging infrastructure and expanding public EV transport networks. Equally important is the development of indigenous technologies to drive the growth of India’s EV sector. By 2030, the EV market in India could represent over 40 per cent of the automotive industry and generate more than $100 billion in revenue. The road ahead is promising, with tremendous opportunities and the right fundamentals in place for India to become a key player in the global EV value chain.”

Ravi Mehra, Deputy Managing Director of Uno Minda, said, “As we celebrate World EV Day, it's imperative to acknowledge the pivotal role electric vehicles play in shaping a sustainable future for the automotive industry. India, with its vast population and growing economy, stands at the forefront of this transformative shift. The country's ambitious electric vehicle adoption targets, coupled with favorable government policies and growing infrastructure, are driving significant progress. Beyond the immediate environmental benefits, the transition to EVs presents a unique opportunity for India to establish itself as a global leader in electric vehicle technology and manufacturing. By embracing electric mobility, the nation can not only reduce its carbon footprint but also create new economic opportunities, foster technological advancements, and improve air quality for its citizens.

We, at Uno Minda stand at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) technology. With a commitment to driving innovation and reducing carbon emissions, our company has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge components and systems that power the EV revolution. From advanced battery management systems to intelligent charging solutions, our solutions are designed to enhance the performance, efficiency, and reliability of electric vehicles. 
As the world collectively strives to mitigate the impacts of climate change, electric vehicles offer a tangible solution that aligns with the broader sustainability goals of the automotive industry and the planet.

Alagesan Thasari, Director of Automotive Business at SKF India and Southeast Asia, said “The EV megatrend in the country has created immense opportunities for SKF to thrive and offer innovative solutions to meet the growing demand. We are working closely with leading OEMs, developing systems that focus on sustainability and minimal carbon emissions. Our advanced technologies, like the SKF Hybrid Ceramic bearing and Conductive brush ring, are key to overcome challenges such as electrical erosion and current leakage in high-performance EV powertrains.

We are also driving material innovation, with green steel and bio-based lubricants as key examples of sustainable alternatives being used in our applications. We are optimistic about the penetration of EVs in the Indian automotive market and excited to be an integral part of this monumental shift in the industry.”

Charge Point Operators

Shailesh Saraph, EVP & Global Head ER&D, Tata Technologies, said “Tata Technologies is accelerating the transition to sustainable mobility by delivering comprehensive, end-to-end electric vehicle (EV) solutions to global OEMs. Our suite of turnkey product development solutions and accelerators empowers OEMs to bring competitive EVs to market faster. Whether through our lightweighting frameworks, electric Vehicle Modular Platform (eVMP 2.0), NPI processes, or smart manufacturing innovations, we partner with manufacturers to optimize cost, quality, and time-to-market. With deep expertise across the EV value chain—from concept and design to validation and aftersales—we drive innovation, ensuring a sustainable, greener future for the industry and the world.”

Maxson Lewis, Founder & CEO, Magenta Mobility, said “On this World EV Day, we reflect on the growth of India's electric vehicle market, which has come a long way from its early stages and is steadily moving towards becoming a key player globally. The shift towards electric vehicles, especially in logistics, is an important step in supporting the country’s Net Zero goal by 2070. At Magenta, we are focused on providing businesses with sustainable logistics solutions that not only reduce carbon footprints but also enhance operational efficiency. By integrating cutting-edge EV technology into our fleet, we help companies achieve their sustainability goals while maintaining reliable and cost-effective delivery operations. As we move forward, we are committed to partnering with businesses to drive greener, smarter logistics for a more sustainable India.”

Harry Bajaj, Founder and CEO, Mobec, said "For World EV Day on 9th September, I want to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve embarked on with electric vehicles, a journey that represents more than just a shift in how we move from point A to point B. It’s about rethinking our relationship with energy, sustainability, and the future of our planet.

At Mobec, we are driven by a vision of a world where transportation is not only efficient and innovative but also environmentally conscious. The transition to electric mobility is not just an industry trend; it’s a global movement towards a greener, more sustainable future. Each EV on the road represents a step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a cleaner environment for future generations.

However, this movement is only as strong as the infrastructure that supports it. That’s why at Mobec, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with our portable charging solutions. Our goal is to make EV ownership as convenient as possible, whether you're charging at home, on the road, or anywhere in between.

But our vision doesn’t stop there. We see a future where every electric vehicle is a part of a larger, interconnected ecosystem—where renewable energy sources, advanced technology, and user-centric solutions converge to create a seamless experience for EV owners. This World EV Day, let’s celebrate how far we’ve come, and also recognize the road ahead. It’s an exciting time for the EV industry, and at Mobec, we’re proud to be at the forefront, driving innovation, sustainability, and a brighter future for all."

Sirajuddin Ali, Founder and CEO, Malitra India, said “The electric vehicle (EV) sector in India is witnessing steady growth, mirrored by advancements in the EV charging ecosystem. With the government pushing forward on the implementation of the FAME 3 subsidy, the country is poised for substantial progress toward its 2030 sustainability and green goals. Additional support for 'Make in India' charger initiatives is expected to further accelerate the adoption of EVs across the nation.”

EV Battery Maker & Recycler

Pratik Kamdar, CEO and Co-Founder, Neuron Energy, said "On World EV Day, we celebrate the power of electric mobility and reaffirm our commitment to driving innovation in EV battery technology. I am optimistic about seeing electric vehicles becoming an integral part of our lives rapidly, marking a significant leap toward a greener future. At Neuron Energy, we are dedicated to creating sustainable and efficient energy solutions that power the future of transportation, reducing our carbon footprint and paving the way for a cleaner, greener world. Infact, as per a recent report by JMK Research & Analytics, India's electric vehicle (EV) sales surged to 1,752,406 units in FY2024, marking a robust year-on-year (y-o-y) growth of 40.31 per cent compared to the previous fiscal year. So, we aim high and keep driving the future of e-mobility forward." 

Ankit Sharma, Co-Founder & Director, Vidyuta Materials, said “At Vidyuta, we drive the future of sustainable mobility with our cutting-edge cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries. Our vision embraces both innovation in battery technology and the creation of employment opportunities through targeted skilling initiatives. We believe that a sustainable future is built on the pillars of advanced technology and a skilled workforce.

As India’s EV industry continues to grow, the need for a strong domestic supply chain becomes increasingly critical. With over 90 per cent of battery components currently imported, we are committed to reducing this reliance by strengthening India’s domestic supply chain. By leveraging advanced technology and strategic partnerships, we are at the forefront of this transformation, fostering a robust and geographically diverse EV ecosystem in India.

On this EV Day, we celebrate our role in advancing electric mobility and our contributions toward a circular economy. We are minimizing waste and lowering the environmental impact of battery production and disposal through efficient recycling and material recovery—essential steps towards a sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Looking ahead, we are poised to play a pivotal role in India’s mobility evolution. We are dedicated to contributing to the nation’s goals of import substitution and self-reliance, ensuring that India leads in electric mobility and sustainable energy. We look forward to policies that will support our vision and help create a thriving ecosystem for EVs in India.” 

Utkarsh Singh, Co-Founder & CEO of BatX Energies, said “Energy materials crucial for renewable technologies and battery storage are pivotal for India's national energy security. As India transitions to sustainable energy sources like solar, wind, and electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for lithium, cobalt, and nickel surges. These materials, essential for batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines, are vital in reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. By focusing on domestic sourcing and recycling, India can lessen its dependence on foreign imports and mitigate risks from global supply chain disruptions. For instance, BatX Energies is advancing battery recycling to recover valuable materials and foster a closed-loop system, enhancing India's self-reliance. Developing a robust domestic supply chain will not only reduce vulnerabilities to global price fluctuations but also support the clean energy transition and long-term sustainability. For the EV sector, a reliable domestic supply of these materials is transformative, enabling accelerated manufacturing, reduced costs, and broader accessibility of EVs. Recycling used EV batteries ensures a sustainable material source, minimises environmental impacts, and drives adoption, aligning with India's goals for a greener, cleaner transportation system.”

Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEO of Himadri Speciality Chemical, said "As electric mobility becomes an integral part of global sustainability goals, it's clear that innovation in battery technology will be a driving force in this transformation. With India's EV market surging to 1.5 million units in 2023—an impressive 50 per cent rise from the previous year—there is no doubt we are at a pivotal moment. Two-wheelers, making up nearly 90 per cent of EV sales, highlight the immediate impact on everyday mobility.

At Himadri, our focus on developing high-performance battery materials aligns with the growing demand for cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions. As the gap between EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles narrows, we must ensure that sustainability extends across the entire value chain, from material sourcing to recycling. The success of electric mobility relies on continued collaboration between industries, governments, and consumers, and we are committed to playing our role in advancing a cleaner, more sustainable future."

Rajesh Gupta, Founder & Director, Recyclekaro, said "As World EV Day approaches, it's a call for us to rethink how we travel and how we can do our bit for the planet. In India, where our transportation sector plays a major role in carbon emissions, the shift to electric vehicles isn’t just about embracing new technology—it's about making a conscious choice for a sustainable future. I am happy to see Government initiatives like public transport like buses moving towards EVs as well as incentives to boost the adoption of private EVs.

Electric Vehicles represent an opportunity for us to reduce our carbon footprint, but they also bring with them the chance to create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen our economy. This transformation is essential if we want to leave behind a healthier planet for our future generations. At Recyclekaro, we understand that moving to electric mobility comes with its own set of responsibilities. It's not just about driving cleaner vehicles, but also ensuring that the batteries and electronic components are recycled in a way that truly supports a greener future".

Electric Aggregator

Akash Gupta, CEO & Co-founder of Zypp Electric, emphasized the collective effort needed to drive forward the transition to green mobility. He quoted “On World EV Day, we celebrate the collective efforts toward a more sustainable future and recognize that our journey is far from over,” Gupta stated. Zypp Electric’s commitment is reflected in their substantial impact, supporting 22,000 Zypp Pilot families through their platform. Gupta’s vision is to touch one million lives over the next four years, powered by innovation and the ZyppX franchise model, which aims to broaden the reach of electric vehicles into tier 2-3 towns across India. “Together, we wish to move closer to a carbon-neutral future, one delivery at a time,” Gupta added.

Aditya Singh Ratnu, CEO & Co-Founder of ZEVO, said “World EV Day is a strong reminder of our pledge to the world for greener transport and the future of mobility,” Ratnu said. He celebrated the progress in EV technology and infrastructure while acknowledging ongoing challenges such as expanding charging networks and reducing battery costs. Ratnu emphasized the collective effort of governments, manufacturers, and consumers in driving the shift towards electric transportation and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering innovation and large-scale EV adoption.

Rohan Dewan, Co-Founder & CEO of LeafyBus, said "EV’s are growing in all sectors across India with high penetration in Commercial segments driven by Govt initiatives. With the opening of various charging infrastructure across Highways and multiple innovative startups coming in to accelerate the transition, India will soon be leading the Electric vehicle transition accross the world.

The key drivers to attain this will surely be:-

1. Govt policies & subsidies for ev’s that will play a major role in the initial phases

2. ⁠Innovative startup’s that use technology to enlighten the path for sustainable mobility across all channels

3. People becoming more conscious of their carbon footprint and the adapting EV’s for a better tomorrow"

EV Financing Companies

Sameer Aggarwal, Founder & CEO of RevFin, said “As India accelerates its efforts towards becoming a global leader in EV adoption, the focus on sustainable fleet mobility and infrastructure development is more critical than ever.” Aggarwal highlighted the role of policies like FAME 3 in reinforcing the commitment to green mobility through widespread charging infrastructure. RevFin is dedicated to providing innovative financial solutions that address the challenges of EV adoption, aligning with government initiatives to support the sector’s growth.

Others

Jitendra Patil, Managing Director of ARENQ, spoke about the ongoing evolution of electric vehicles and the commitment to making them a mainstream choice. He quoted “On World EV Day, we celebrate not only the remarkable evolution of electric vehicles but also the burgeoning momentum towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future,” Patil stated. ARENQ is dedicated to advancing battery technology, making EVs more affordable, and expanding charging infrastructure. Patil’s vision is to transform electric vehicles from a niche market into a mainstream choice, contributing to a healthier planet through collaboration and innovation.

Veer Singh, CEO, Lord’s Automative, said “As World EV Day comes to a close, it is clear that the journey towards a sustainable future is one of collective action and unwavering commitment. The combined efforts of industry leaders and stakeholders underscore a shared vision of a cleaner, greener world, where electric vehicles play a central role in reducing carbon footprints and driving positive environmental change.

World EV Day serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of electric vehicles (EVs) in shaping a sustainable future. As the global EV fleet continues to grow at a remarkable pace, it is clear that electric mobility is no longer a niche, but a movement driving significant environmental and economic change. The shift to EVs presents a critical opportunity to reduce global carbon emissions, with road transport responsible for 75 per cent of transportation-related CO2 output. Electric vehicles can cut these emissions in half over their lifetime, contributing to the global push towards climate goals.

Moreover, the rapid advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure are addressing consumer concerns like range anxiety and affordability, making EVs a more accessible choice for millions. The collaboration between governments, automotive manufacturers, and tech companies has been pivotal in driving this progress.

India, with its ambitious target of electrifying 30 per cent of its vehicle fleet by 2030, is a key player in this transition. The commitment to building a comprehensive EV ecosystem underscores the country's role in the global EV revolution. On this World EV Day, we not only celebrate the progress made but reaffirm our dedication to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles, ensuring a cleaner, greener future for all."