Abstract:

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are viewed as a solution to several problems: reducing emission of greenhouse gases, sustainable economic growth, improving air quality, and reducing fossil fuel imports in India. However, the transition from a fossil fuel-based transport system to an electric mobility system faces variety of challenges. One of the major barriers is the distinct cost disadvantage of EVs vis-à-vis traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The battery in an EV is its most expensive component, accounting for 50 per cent of its total cost; thus, the affordability of EVs is directly proportional to the affordability of a battery. This study identifies strategies that could reduce battery costs and make EVs affordable and improve its uptake in transport and mobility system in India.