Que: Can you tell us what the EV Expo 2024 is all about and how it is going to impact the EV sector as a whole?

Ans: The EV Expo has been organized since 2015, and this is its 21st edition. It is an exclusive event for pure electric vehicles. We do not allow hybrids or any other types of vehicles. The expo showcases electric vehicles, their components, batteries, and battery technology. Batteries are particularly important, as they constitute about 50% of the cost of an electric vehicle globally.

The EV Expo is transformative because the future is undoubtedly electric. Fossil fuels like petrol are expected to last for another 20-25 years, but the world is gradually shifting to power generation from renewable sources like solar and wind. These sources are now referred to as ‘new energy’ rather than ‘renewable energy’ because they are becoming mainstream. As gas and petrol reserves are finite, the transition to electric mobility is essential for sustainability.

Mobility is a crucial part of our ecosystem, and the future of mobility lies in either electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles. While hydrogen technology is still developing, electric vehicles are currently the best solution, especially since electricity is increasingly being generated using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power.

The shift to electric vehicles will significantly reduce pollution, which is a pressing concern. Vehicular pollution is a major contributor, and transitioning to EVs can alleviate this issue. Even the Supreme Court is taking strict measures against pollution. The EV Expo, held annually in December, provides a platform for people to experience and explore the latest electric vehicles and technologies, including electric cycles, motorcycles, rickshaws, autos, three-wheelers, cars, and trucks. It also features components like batteries, motors, and controllers. The primary goal of the expo is to contribute to reducing vehicular pollution and make our country a cleaner place.

Que: What advancements or innovations can we expect to see at this year's expo?

Ans: This year, we are showcasing an electric tractor, as there is a significant focus on agriculture and farming. Additionally, we are introducing rural buses. While large electric buses are already operational in cities like Delhi, this year we are focusing on smaller buses with 18-24 seats designed to connect villages with highways and nearby towns.

One of the key advantages of electric rural buses is that they eliminate the need for long trips to refuel. Unlike petrol or gas vehicles that require a 5-10 km journey for refueling, electric vehicles can be charged locally. India now has surplus electricity, and most villages have access to power, making electric rural transport more feasible.

These rural buses, or RTVs (Rural Transport Vehicles), are a new concept, and the government has shown interest in promoting them. We are optimistic about their potential to revolutionize rural mobility.

Que: What are your expectations from this expo, and are there any breakthrough launches?

Ans: The major breakthroughs at this year’s expo are the rural bus and electric tractor. Additionally, BYD is showcasing their new cars, which have already been launched but are being displayed here for public viewing.

Several companies are also introducing mini electric trucks, and a few are launching large electric trucks. While passenger vehicles like e-rickshaws, e-autos, and e-buses are already widespread in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, the focus is now shifting to the cargo sector. Companies are demonstrating mini and large electric trucks to address this need.

We anticipate that soon, the entire vehicular traffic system will transition to electric vehicles, reducing pollution from diesel, petrol, and gas-powered vehicles to zero, as EVs produce no tailpipe emissions.

Que: What is your perspective on recent government policies like the PM E-Drive, and how will they shape the market?

Ans: The PM E-Drive initiative is aligned with the broader goal of electrification, with a particular focus on commercial vehicles. While the passenger segment has seen remarkable progress, the government is now emphasizing the conversion of cargo vehicles, such as trucks and mini-trucks, to electric.

This policy reflects the shift in focus from passenger vehicles to commercial vehicles, aiming to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility in the cargo and logistics sectors. The initiative is expected to have a significant positive impact on the market by driving innovation and adoption in the commercial EV space.