In 2024, EVs accounted for over 20% of new cars sold globally (17 million units). It increased by over 25% in 2024. EVs accounted for 7.5% of India’s total vehicle sales in 2024.
Rapid Growth of EV
China, Europe, and the USA account for around 95% of all sales.
In Southeast Asia, sales grew nearly 50% in 2024.
Brazil doubled its sales to 125,000 units
Africa remains under 1% share, though sales more than doubled in 2024
India’s EV Targets by 2030
80% EV adoption in 2 & 3 wheelers
40% EV adoption in buses
30% EV adoption in private cars
Electric Vehicles Contributing to Reducing Carbon Emissions
Zero tailpipe emissions – EVs emit no CO₂, NOx or particulate matter during operation, unlike petrol/diesel vehicles.
Lower life-cycle emissions when powered by renewable sources (solar, wind, hydro)
Higher energy efficiency – EVs convert 85–90% of energy into motion, compared to 20–30% in ICE vehicles.
Less demand for petrol and diesel lowers emissions from mining, refining and transportation of fossil fuel.
Accelerating grid decarbonisation – EV charging encourages higher renewable power capacity.
Recycling and reuse of batteries reduces emissions from raw material extraction.
Key Benefits of EVs Compared to Traditional Combustion Engine Vehicles
Environmental Benefits
Reduction in urban smog and air pollution
Helps achieve climate and SDG targets (SDG 13 & SDG 11)
Economic Benefits
Lower running and maintenance costs
Reduces oil import bill and saves foreign exchange
Generates green jobs in battery, EV, and charging sectors
Energy Security Benefits
Cuts dependence on imported crude oil
Promotes use of domestic renewable energy
Public Health Benefits
Decline in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
Improved urban air quality
Technological Benefits
Boosts battery innovation, smart grids and V2G technologies
Strengthens Make in India and PLI manufacturing ecosystem
Urban & Social Benefits- Eg- Less noise pollution
Challenges
High Initial Cost (20–30% costlier), limiting affordability for middle and lower-income groups.
Insufficient Charging Infrastructure – India has 1 public charging station per 135 EVs
India imports over 90% of its lithium-ion batteries, mainly from China.
Regulatory Uncertainty – Frequent policy shifts create confusion. Eg- Changes in import duties and tax regimes
Limited driving range leads to “range anxiety” among consumers.
Limited awareness of EV benefits and technology slows adoption.
Way Forward
Invest in advanced battery R&D such as solid-state and sodium-ion batteries.
Leverage National Critical Mineral Mission to boost domestic lithium exploration.
Expand Charging Infrastructure through PPP
Learn from Global Best Practices – Eg- Germany’s ELISA project
Integrate with global EV supply chains. Eg- lithium supply from Argentina
EVs are a cornerstone of low-carbon mobility and represent civilisational shift towards sustainability.