Abstract:

India recently overtook China to be the most populous country in the world. With economic growth, India has witnessed a massive increase in urbanization. In this light, during the thematic track, Mr Sameer Pandita said, “Not many OEMs are making diesel hybrid vehicles or electrical vehicle trucks. Electrification of LMV is not an issue but for the major contributor of GHG emission (HDV), the technology and skilled force are still not there. Until and unless we have technology in HDV, tailor-made for Indian cities, we are not moving ahead.”

There is a gap on the financial side in the trucking segment. Pilot projects can act as a solution to give the confidence to financing companies. “Financing will remain a major issue in the absence of endorsement by OEMs. The government could act as a consumer, as seen in the electric bus segment. We should look for such options in the trucking segment as well, as it will give a great push to creating demands for OEMs,” said Mr N Mohan. “Also, a trial for trucking segment can be run. It will lower the burden of investment among stakeholders and challenges can be identified,” added Ms Trupti Deshpande.