How is the EV industry driving India towards a sustainable future?

Changing climatic conditions are profoundly impacting the consciousness of humanity. The cataclysmic weather events—melting polar caps and rising temperatures—have made countries think about reducing greenhouse emissions. In this regard, a sustainable approach has become critical and 191 UN member countries have already agreed to try to achieve the 17 SDGs (sustainable development goals) by 2030. Furthermore, every country, including India, has been proactive in its approach to following the best sustainable practices, and the Indian electric industry has a vital role to play.

EVs in India have emerged as a successful alternative to traditional ICE vehicles that emit harmful emissions into the environment. As a result, the adaptation has also experienced swift growth, especially in E2W (electric two-wheelers).

According to the data of the SMEV (Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles), EV sales in India has crossed the mark of 1 million in 2023, with a 62% E2W market share. EV have emerged as a significant industry that has struck the perfect balance between economic development and environmental protection. Therefore, the development of the EV industry in India is important for its sustainable future.

India’s EV industry: a catalyst for a sustainable future

In metropolitan locations, conventional transport has a significant impact on PM2.5 concentrations. In addition to having an effect on buildings, agriculture, and the environment, ICE vehicle emissions also have an effect on people's health. From an environmental perspective, switching from ICE to EV is regarded as beneficial for the climate because of the anticipated reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2. Therefore, the biggest benefit comes from switching from an ICE to an EV in an effort to reduce local combustion-related pollution.

Zero tailpipe emissions

In India, air pollution is responsible for taking the lives of 1.66 million people per year, according to Statista. Traditional machines working on ICE emit harmful gases from their tailpipes, including CO2, NOx (nitrogen oxide), SOx (sulphur oxide), and more. However, fully electric vehicles do not need a tailpipe and, as a result, do not produce any harmful emissions. The emissions per km from driving electric are far less than those from driving petrol or diesel. According to research by the European Energy Agency, using an EV emits between 17% and 30% fewer carbon emissions than doing so in a petrol or diesel vehicle.

Reduced noise pollution

According to a survey conducted by Earth5R in January 2023, city traffic and road noise are the main causes of noise levels being over 50% above the permissible limit of 50 dB. A troubling degree of noise pollution has developed throughout time as a result of the quick advancement of technology, industrialization, urbanisation, and other communication and transportation systems, and it needs to be managed. The best course of action is to switch to EVs to deal with this dilemma. Particularly when compared to ICE vehicles and exhaust systems, electric motors are relatively quieter and, as a result, generate less noise pollution. The exhaust headers on gasoline and diesel vehicles may include silencers to lessen noise, but they are typically louder than their normal counterparts.

Saves on resources

Electric vehicles lessen reliance on fossil fuels because they do not require diesel or gasoline to operate, in contrast to conventional motor vehicles. Additionally, EVs can convert 60% of electrical energy from the grid, compared to petrol or diesel cars, which can only convert 17% to 21% of stored energy. It is obvious that India's switch to electric vehicles will increase the effectiveness of fuel production and optimisation. Additionally, using and disposing of fossil-based items like motor oil is simply not necessary for EVs. As a result, many automotive fluids and lubricants that can be environmentally problematic in ICE vehicles are not a problem for EVs.

EVs as promoters of green growth

India is making gradual strides towards a development plan that is inclusive and sustainable while also taking into account the pressing needs of its billion-strong population for socioeconomic advancement. This is consistent with the nation's steadfast dedication to reaching the internationally agreed-upon Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Sustainability pertains to both the prudent use of the nation's resources for its own gain as well as the reduction of climate change's negative effects. In this sense, electric vehicles form the foundation of India's economic and sustainable development. By using electricity rather than fossil fuels to power transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) have contributed and will continue to contribute to green growth. With faster adoption of EVs, the nation will be able to cut down on air pollution, reduce noise pollution, and also save resources, which will collectively contribute to a sustainable future.

The article is authored by By Setul Shah, Founder at RunR Mobility