China’s electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) revolution began nearly two decades ago and has since evolved into a dominant global force. With a strong focus on vertical integration, battery technology, and unwavering government support, China has set a benchmark in the EV industry. Companies like BYD, Wuling, Tesla, and Geely lead passenger EV sales, with Chinese brands surpassing their European and American counterparts.
India was a late entrant to the EV space, and its market remains relatively small. Until recently, Tata Motors was the sole frontrunner in the segment. With battery technology evolving rapidly, both consumers and automakers initially adopted a cautious approach. In fact, a few years ago, a leading manufacturer publicly stated that it had no roadmap for EVs and would focus only on hybrids and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Yet today, the same company has launched a battery electric vehicle (BEV)!
This raises an important question: Did India falter in its EV policies?
The landscape is changing. With some aggressive product launches and strategic marketing, Mahindra & Mahindra is making brilliant strides in the EV market. Other players in the two-wheeler and four-wheeler segments—such as Ola Electric, River, Ather, TVS, Bajaj, Hyundai, Tata Motors, and new entrants to Indian market like VinFast—are rolling out EVs at an accelerated pace.
Despite its late start, India has an opportunity to leverage the latest battery technologies, enabling competitive pricing for EVs against ICE vehicles. Increased investment in battery R&D and localized battery pack manufacturing will be key drivers in surpassing ICE sales in the coming years. The recent customs duty exemption on materials and capital goods for lithium-ion battery production further strengthens this outlook. State governments—including Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat—are competing to offer incentives and foster a robust EV manufacturing ecosystem.
India’s EV policies were not flawed—just slow and cautious in implementation. But now, the momentum is shifting, and the nation is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the global EV landscape.
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