Every year on September 9th, the world comes together to celebrate World EV Day—a moment to reflect on how electric vehicles (EVs) are redefining mobility, energy consumption, and the fight against climate change. Launched in 2020 by sustainability advocate Ade Thomas through Green.TV, in collaboration with ABB, the initiative has grown into a global platform that highlights how EVs are transforming the way we move and live.

For India, this day holds special significance. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies grappling with urban air pollution, carbon emissions, and energy security challenges, the transition to electric mobility is more than a technological shift—it’s a critical step toward safeguarding public health and the environment. World EV Day serves as a reminder that adopting EVs is not just about cleaner vehicles; it’s about committing to a more sustainable way of life.

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India’s EV Landscape: Powering Up for the Future

India’s EV sector is witnessing unprecedented momentum. The market, valued at $54.41 billion this year, is projected to more than double to $110.7 billion by 2029, growing at a healthy compound annual rate of 19.44%. This surge is a reflection of rising consumer interest, evolving infrastructure, and a supportive policy framework.

The government’s push for EV adoption has been unwavering. The FAME II scheme, with its allocation rising from ₹10,000 crores to ₹11,500 crores, continues to incentivise both vehicle purchases and the expansion of charging networks. Complementing this is the PM E-DRIVE programme, which is dedicated to building public charging infrastructure in both urban and rural regions, backed by a ₹2,000 crore (~$233.8 million) investment. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme further accelerates domestic manufacturing, with a ₹3,500 crore ($70 million) allocation in FY25—a move aimed at reducing import dependency and boosting the Make-in-India vision.

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State governments are also playing a pivotal role. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that Madhya Pradesh is the first state in the country to formulate an electric vehicle policy, and it is ready to represent the future of EV transportation. He stated, “The state is getting ready to represent the future of electric vehicle transportation. Madhya Pradesh is the first state to formulate an EV policy. Achieving the country’s EV manufacturing targets under the global mandate to fight climate change and the leadership of Prime Minister Modi is Madhya Pradesh’s priority.”

Tamil Nadu, too, is emerging as a key player. Recent strategic agreements, including a ₹7,500 crore investment from the UK-based Hinduja Group, are focused on enhancing the state’s EV ecosystem, particularly in battery storage, with the potential to create over 1,000 new jobs.

Consumer response reflects this growing momentum. In FY24-25, Ola Electric led the pack with 3,59,502 units sold and a 29.7% market share, while TVS Motors, Bajaj Auto, and Ather Energy each crossed the 100,000-unit milestone. The ecosystem is maturing, offering consumers wider choices and boosting trust in EV technology.

Learning from Norway: A Roadmap for the Future

While India charts its path, global experiences offer valuable lessons. Norway, for instance, is on track to become one of the first countries with near-total EV adoption. In 2024, EVs accounted for nearly 89% of new car sales—a dramatic leap from 82% the previous year. By 2025, the nation aims for full electrification of its passenger vehicle fleet.

What has driven this success is not just incentives or infrastructure—it’s the convergence of long-term vision, policy stability, and consumer trust. Norway’s early efforts to remove financial barriers, such as VAT exemptions, import duty waivers, and registration fee cuts, made EVs financially viable for a broader population. Additionally, its commitment to renewable energy—especially hydroelectricity—has ensured that EVs remain environmentally beneficial, not just cleaner on paper.

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Public awareness campaigns and consumer advocacy have further strengthened the ecosystem, making EV ownership feel accessible and desirable. Crucially, these policies were underpinned by consistent, stable governance, which reassured both consumers and investors that the shift to EVs was not a passing trend but a fundamental transformation.

For India, the lesson is clear: targeted incentives can lower the cost of ownership, robust charging networks can ease range anxiety, and long-term policy roadmaps can build investor confidence. Moreover, aligning EV growth with renewable energy projects will ensure that the environmental benefits are real and measurable. Public-private partnerships and awareness campaigns will be vital in bridging the gap between policy intent and consumer adoption.

Accelerating Towards a Sustainable Future

India’s journey toward electric mobility is gathering momentum, powered by government initiatives, private investment, and consumer enthusiasm. With clear targets—such as achieving 30% EV adoption by 2030—and an expanding infrastructure ecosystem, the country is well-positioned to lead the global transition toward cleaner, smarter transportation.

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On World EV Day 2025, we celebrate not only the progress made but also the opportunities that lie ahead. The path forward demands collaboration, innovation, and persistence. By drawing on global best practices, fostering homegrown solutions, and committing to long-term sustainable action, India can shape a future where mobility serves both people and the planet.

The road ahead is electric—and the possibilities are brighter than ever.