Industry insiders predict a mix of hurdles and potential growth for India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector in the upcoming year. Concerns about regulations, technology limitations, and market dynamics cast shadows over the industry’s trajectory, even as positive indicators promise advancement, IANS reports.
Key figures within the sector acknowledge the challenges lying ahead. They identify regulatory uncertainties as a primary impediment, citing the absence of a coherent policy framework and inadequate charging infrastructure as barriers to the sector’s expansion. Ayush Lohia, CEO of Lohia Auto Industries Ltd, emphasized the urgency for technological advancements to improve battery efficiency and decrease costs.
The discontinuation of government subsidies under the FAME II scheme also adds to the sector’s unpredictability. H. S. Bhatia, Managing Director at Kelwon Electronic Pvt Ltd, highlights the necessity for stable policies to enable strategic planning for EV stakeholders.
Moreover, financial limitations hinder consumer adoption, with public sector banks hesitant to finance EVs, leaving only private lenders as viable options. Bhatia underscores the urgency for diversified financing to broaden consumer accessibility.
However, amidst these challenges, there are signs of optimism. Lohia points to increased investments by both domestic and international automakers in EV infrastructure and manufacturing as a driving force for EV adoption. He also notes the decreasing cost of EV batteries and the introduction of incentives as favorable factors for potential buyers.
Some industry experts advocate for a shift away from subsidy-driven approaches, urging a focus on cost reduction and technological innovation to compete globally. Anirudh Ravi Narayanan, CEO of BNC Motors Pvt Ltd, stresses the need for competitiveness against international products, pushing for reduced costs through supply chain localization.
The discussion on subsidies remains divided. While initial incentives jumpstart adoption, the long-term sustainability of EVs hinges on technological advancements and reduced dependency on subsidies. Government policies favoring charging infrastructure and research and development will play a critical role in shaping the sector’s future, according to Lohia.
Meanwhile, established two-wheeler manufacturers like TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto are gradually gaining EV market share due to their extensive distribution networks. However, pure EV players remain confident in advanced technology to offset this competitive disadvantage.
Lohia emphasizes the need for a balance between innovation and customer-centric services to ensure sustained growth, while Bhatia highlights the importance of affordable yet superior technology to attract younger consumers.
As the EV industry in India braces for a transformative year ahead, the interplay between policy, technology, and market dynamics will significantly shape its trajectory.