Electric Vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a cornerstone of global climate action, but their true potential lies beyond mere electrification. For EVs to become genuine climate catalysts, three critical elements must converge: clean electrons, circular batteries, and bankable business models, all underpinned by interoperable standards. India’s transition to electric mobility must embrace this holistic vision to deliver environmental benefits, economic resilience, and consumer confidence.
The climate advantage of EVs depends on the source of electricity. Charging EVs with coal-heavy grids dilutes their emissions benefit. India’s strategy must prioritise renewable energy integration into the charging ecosystem. Solar-powered charging stations, decentralised microgrids, and green hydrogen for heavy-duty transport can ensure that every kilometer driven is genuinely clean. This synergy between clean power and clean mobility might amplify carbon abatement and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Batteries are the beating heart of EVs, but they also pose sustainability challenges. Mining critical minerals like lithium and cobalt has environmental and geopolitical implications. A circular battery economy–focused on reuse, recycling, and second-life applications–can mitigate these risks. India needs robust recycling infrastructure and incentives for manufacturers to design batteries for longevity and recyclability. Circularity not only reduces resource strain but also creates new economic opportunities in battery refurbishment and material recovery.
For EV adoption to scale, business models must be financially sustainable. This means moving beyond subsidies to innovative solutions such as battery-as-a-service, leasing options, and energy-as-a-service platforms. These models lower upfront costs, enhance affordability, and attract private investment. Public-private partnerships can accelerate infrastructure deployment, while carbon credits and green financing can make EV projects more attractive to investors.
Fragmentation in charging protocols and battery technologies can slow adoption. Interoperable standards for charging connectors, payment systems, and battery swapping are essential to create a seamless user experience. Standardisation also fosters competition and innovation, enabling consumers to access services across networks without compatibility concerns.
India’s mobility landscape is diverse, spanning premium buyers, mass-market users, and public transport operators. A one-size-fits-all strategy will not work. Instead, a multi-pathway approach is needed: premium segments should focus on performance EVs with advanced features and fast-charging capabilities to attract early adopters; mass-market solutions must prioritise affordable two-wheelers and compact cars powered by efficient batteries and supported by widespread charging infrastructure; and public transport electrification should target buses and shared mobility fleets to maximise emissions reduction per rupee spent.
This approach ensures inclusivity while keeping the spotlight on abatement per rupee–a metric that balances climate impact with economic prudence. Simultaneously, electrification strengthens energy security by reducing oil imports and leveraging domestic renewable resources.
