Ankit Sharma

India’s New Electric Vehicle Policy Expected to Attract Major Global Players The Indian government has set its sights on attracting major automobile companies to its electric vehicle (EV) sector through a new policy unveiled in March. This ambitious move is part of a broader strategy to position India as a global hub for EV manufacturing. Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), expressed optimism about the policy’s potential to draw interest from several global players, including the renowned U.S.-based EV manufacturer, Tesla. Singh shared these insights at the annual business summit organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). He highlighted that while Tesla is often the focus of discussions, the government expects numerous responses from various companies to this forward-thinking policy. Approved on March 15, the policy introduces a series of tariff adjustments designed to encourage EV manufacturers to set up operations in India without incurring additional costs. Key Provisions of the EV Policy Under the new policy, companies that invest a minimum of USD 500 million to establish manufacturing units in India will be eligible for significant duty concessions. These companies will have a three-year window to set up their manufacturing facilities and start commercial production of electric vehicles. Furthermore, they must achieve a domestic value addition (DVA) of 50% within five years. A notable incentive is the reduced customs duty on imported vehicles. Companies establishing EV manufacturing units in India can import a limited number of completely built units (CBUs) at a reduced customs duty of 15% on vehicles priced at USD 35,000 and above. This concession is valid for five years from the date of the government’s approval letter. Currently, CBUs imported into India are subject to customs duties ranging from 70% to 100%, depending on the engine size and the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of the vehicle. Encouraging Domestic Manufacturing and Investment The policy’s primary aim is to transform India into a significant player in the global EV market by fostering domestic manufacturing and attracting investments from leading global EV manufacturers. The government has already secured investment commitments in the tire sector from two major multinational companies. Singh revealed that these companies approached the government with requests to import certain products that were on a restrictive list. In response, the government agreed to allow these imports, provided the companies committed to manufacturing those product lines in India. After receiving these commitments, the government granted the necessary relaxations. India has implemented compulsory quality control standards for specific types of tires and included some in the licensing list to promote domestic manufacturing. Singh emphasized that such measures, along with prudent use of tariff and non-tariff policies, can help achieve the goals outlined under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for investments. Free Trade Agreements and Future Trade Policies Singh also discussed the free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which was signed in March. This agreement, involving Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, includes significant investment commitments. India has secured an investment commitment of USD 100 billion over 15 years from this agreement, which also allows for lower or zero duties on various products, including Swiss watches, chocolates, and cut and polished diamonds. Singh noted that several FTA negotiations are currently underway, and he anticipates a more open stance from India regarding these agreements. He advised the industry to prepare for a future with reduced tariff and customs duties, while also addressing any distortions and inversions in the tax regime that affect the competitiveness of Indian industries. The inverted duty structure, where inputs are taxed at higher rates than finished products, can lead to accumulated credits and increased costs, impacting the export abilities of Indian manufacturers. To address these issues, DPIIT is conducting a cross-sectoral study aimed at rationalizing the duty structure through the GST Council and the finance ministry. The goal is to remove these inversions and improve the competitiveness of India’s manufacturing sector. Conclusion India’s new electric vehicle policy represents a significant step towards establishing the country as a global manufacturing hub for electric vehicles. With attractive incentives and a focus on promoting domestic manufacturing, the government is confident in its ability to draw interest from major global players. As the policy begins to take effect, India is poised to become a key player in the global EV market, driving innovation and investment in this rapidly growing sector. (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

Government to Restore Financial Support to Selected Electric Two-Wheeler Manufacturers The Indian government may reinstate financial support to electric two-wheeler manufacturers such as Revolt Motors, Greaves Electric Mobility, and Amo Mobility under the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024).  However, other manufacturers like Hero Electric, Okinawa Autotech, and Benling India might be excluded from all future government schemes, according to an official statement. This decision follows the return of wrongfully claimed subsidies by Revolt, Greaves, and Amo, whereas Hero, Okinawa, and Benling have yet to comply and have instead pursued legal action against the government. An initial investigation into violations of vehicle localization norms under the Faster Adoption & Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) scheme led to the government issuing notices to recover ₹469 crore in subsidies distributed between 2020 and 2023. Hero, Okinawa, and Benling have contested these recovery notices. “The process is underway to blacklist these errant companies from all government schemes. They have already been debarred from all schemes under the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI),” the official stated. “We have filed a writ petition in the Delhi High Court to recover our outstanding FAME II dues of upwards of INR 425 crore, and our case is subjudice. Okinawa Autotech has always complied with the scheme guidelines, as observed by MHI’s committee headed by Joint Secretary Mukta Shekhar.” A spokesperson for Okinawa mentioned. Okinawa also stated that they have not availed incentives since the beginning of the last financial year and believe the electric two-wheeler industry is now self-sufficient.  However, MHI officials have noted that the report by Joint Secretary Mukta Shekhar has not been accepted by the Centre, prompting a fresh probe into the FAME scheme. Hero Electric and Benling India also refrained from commenting on the ongoing legal matters, citing the subjudice status of their cases. Regarding the restoration of subsidy benefits to certain manufacturers, the official indicated that the heavy industries ministry is awaiting approval from the finance ministry.  “The process to reintegrate these companies under the subsidy scheme is underway,” the official added, noting that Revolt, Greaves, and Amo Mobility have collectively repaid around INR 170 crore to the government. The FAME scheme, launched in 2015 with a budget of ₹895 crore and expanded in 2019 with an outlay of INR 10,000 crore under FAME II, aimed to support the sale of locally produced electric vehicles (EVs). Subsidies were linked to a phased manufacturing program (PMP) designed to progressively increase localization levels.  However, several companies reportedly did not adhere to the PMP, undermining the scheme’s objectives. Despite these challenges, FAME II supported the sales of nearly 1.4 million electric two-wheelers, 161,000 electric three-wheelers, and 20,556 electric four-wheelers. (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

ZELIO Ebikes Unveils Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Hisar, Haryana ZELIO Ebikes, a notable startup in the electric vehicle two-wheeler sector, has inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Ladwa, Hisar, Haryana. This advanced plant, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, boasts an annual production capacity of 72,000 vehicles per shift. This launch marks a significant milestone in ZELIO Ebikes’ commitment to fostering sustainable transportation solutions in India. Spanning 6 acres, with 3 acres under roof, the new facility represents a substantial financial investment of 50 to 100 crores. This investment will significantly enhance ZELIO Ebikes’ production capabilities and generate numerous employment opportunities. Mr. Neeraj Arya, Chairman of ZELIO Ebikes, officiated the inauguration alongside senior company officials. The manufacturing unit will focus on producing a diverse range of e-scooters designed to meet the varied needs of Indian consumers. ZELIO Ebikes’ products are celebrated for their stylish design, powerful features, and exceptional mileage, offering great value for money and an excellent riding experience. “Our new manufacturing unit signifies our commitment to advancing sustainable mobility solutions in India. It will enable us to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles and contribute to reducing our carbon footprint. In the coming years, we aim to establish this facility as a major hub for the design, development, and manufacturing of electric two-wheelers in North India.” Kunal Arya, Co-Founder & Managing Director of ZELIO Ebikes, stated. “The facility is meticulously designed to produce our current product lines as well as upcoming products. With a strong emphasis on R&D, a deep understanding of products and consumers, and decades of manufacturing expertise, we are dedicated to the Make-In-India and Make-For-India initiatives. I also want to express my gratitude to my team for their dedication in bringing this vision to life.” He further added. About ZELIO Auto Pvt Ltd Founded in 2021, ZELIO Auto Pvt Ltd is a 100% Indian electric two-wheeler manufacturing company, dedicated to driving the present towards a sustainable future. With over 200,000 satisfied customers, ZELIO Ebikes is known for its innovative, easy-to-handle, and environmentally friendly products, backed by reliable customer service. The company’s extensive R&D efforts and customer-centric approach ensure that ZELIO Ebikes continues to lead in the electric mobility sector. (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

Maruti Suzuki’s Most Affordable Electric Car: eWX EV Design Patented in India At the Auto Expo 2023, Maruti Suzuki, which has a history of being conservative when introducing new technology, unveiled its eVX electric SUV concept. Parent firm Suzuki unveiled the eWX concept EV at the Bangkok International Motor Show; it was later on show at the Japan Mobility Show. Suzuki recently submitted an Indian patent application for the eWX concept. The Suzuki eWX is primarily an electric hatchback, even though Suzuki labels it an EV mini-wagon. Compact and Compliant: The eWX Concept The eWX concept, measuring just 3.4 meters in length, adheres to Japan’s Kei car restrictions. Its boxy, tallboy design takes cues from the Wagon R but is even smaller than the S-Presso sold in India. As a concept, the patented version lacks headlamps, features a curved windshield extending beyond the A-pillars, and omits B-pillars. It also includes body cladding and fully covered wheel caps.  Anticipated Specifications While Suzuki hasn’t disclosed the eWX’s detailed specifications, it is expected to feature a standard single-motor setup. The company previously suggested that this concept could achieve a range of 230 km, which positions it as a practical urban vehicle. Launch Details Maruti has yet to announce specific details about the eWX’s launch in India. However, Autocar previously reported that an eWX-based hatchback would join Maruti’s lineup around 2026-27. This hatchback, designed to compete with the Tiago EV and MG Comet EV, will be built on the heavily localized K-EV platform. Upcoming EV Models In addition to the eWX-based hatchback, Maruti is developing the eVX mid-size electric SUV. This model will be Maruti’s first EV offering in India, aiming to directly compete with the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV. Production of the eVX SUV has been rescheduled to February 2025, a delay from the initial target of September 2024. (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

India Competes with China in Underwater Mineral Exploration for EVs and Solar Panels Mineral resources are essential for the production of solar panels and electric vehicles, and India and China are essentially engaged in an underwater race for them. The Times of India reported that India has applied for a license to search for minerals like cobalt and manganese in the Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount (ANS) and Carlsberg Ridge, two areas at opposite ends of the Indian Ocean. The license application was made to the International Seabed Authority (ISA) of the United Nations. Batteries for solar panels and electric cars are made from these materials. China reportedly shown interest in looking into mineral possibilities in the Indian Ocean. “We are aware that these territories are being eyed by China and other nations. Thus, to us, it is not just about mineral resources but also strategic significance,” Ministry of Earth Sciences Secretary M Ravichandran told TOI. At the moment, India has permits to investigate two areas of the Indian Ocean. The first licence, which was signed on March 25, 2002, and runs out on March 24, 2027, permits the investigation of polymetallic nodules at a depth of 6 km in the central Indian Ocean, some 6,000 kilometers off the Indian coast. The Rodriguez Triple Junction in the southern Indian Ocean, where three tectonic plates converge close to Mauritius, is the site of the second license, which was signed on September 26, 2016, and expires on September 25, 2031. It allows for the investigation of polymetallic sulphides there. According to Sunil Kumar Singh, the director of the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), during the 1980s, 300,000 square kilometres of the 71 million sq km Indian Ocean region have been mapped. The ISA received these surveys, which cover a region of 150,000 square kilometres and contain polymetallic nodules, or potato-shaped seabed minerals, including copper, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and iron hydroxide. “In the belief that one day there may be technology to investigate these locations, we engaged scientists to examine polymetallic nodules in the Indian Ocean in the 1980s,” adds Singh. Thamban Meloth, Director of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, states that ship-based studies are the first step in the exploration process, which is then followed by preliminary sampling, autonomous underwater vehicle studies, and remotely operated vehicle research. The biological life in the ocean and the effects of mining on the ecosystem are evaluated in a separate study. Within the two locations under investigation, a portion of the 75,000 square kilometers allocated for the Indian study of polymetallic nodules, or 18,000 square kilometers in the Central Indian Ocean, have seen the start of test mining by Indian researchers. This entails creating and evaluating machinery for mineral harvesting and extraction that does not harm the environment. The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), situated in Chennai, is creating an integrated mining system that consists of a crawler, crusher, and pumping system that are all five meters long. Within the 75,000 sq km area in the central Indian Ocean, NIO researchers have found 380 million tonnes of polymetallic nodules, 1.5 million of which include cobalt.   India now imports a significant amount of minerals, including cobalt, from China, Norway, and the United Kingdom. The only remaining choice may be to extract high-quality minerals from the mainly unexplored oceans, as the demand for essential minerals is rising. Content Credit: ET Auto (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

Motovolt Mobility Partners with FuturElectra to Deploy 2K E-Scooters in India Motovolt Mobility, a leading e-mobility brand in India, has partnered with FuturElectra to launch 2,000 of its flagship M7 electric scooters. This collaboration represents a significant leap forward in promoting sustainable transportation solutions across India. The partnership highlights a shared commitment to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) for various delivery needs, paving the way for a more sustainable future in urban mobility and last-mile logistics. The M7 electric scooter, known for its robust features, is set to revolutionize last-mile deliveries, ensuring efficiency while prioritizing eco-friendliness. FuturElectra is at the forefront of developing an EV lifecycle management platform tailored for EV two-wheelers. “Our objective is to make EV adoption affordable, accessible, and seamless for all prospective owners. Our platform facilitates OEMs to list their vehicles and enables customers to select vehicles with our customized financing solutions. We aspire to create a mutually beneficial solution for financial institutions, OEMs, and dealer partners within the EV ecosystem.” Akash Deep, Founder & CEO of FuturElectra, stated. The M7 electric scooter offers unparalleled range, reliability, and innovative features, boasting an impressive range of up to 166 km on a single charge. Equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry and an IP67-certified battery, the M7 comes with an attractive warranty, ensuring user peace of mind. “Through this strategic partnership with FuturElectra, our aim is to foster the adoption of EVs for diverse delivery requirements. The M7 e-scooter signifies a significant stride towards a more sustainable future in urban mobility.” Tushar Choudhary, Founder & CEO of Motovolt Mobility, remarked, Echoing this sentiment, Akash Deep, Founder & CEO of FuturElectra, added, “We are committed to revolutionizing the future of mobility. Together, we can drive innovation, sustainability, and electrification in the two-wheeler industry.” The M7 electric scooter seamlessly blends Indian aspiration with German engineering, offering a host of amenities such as an inbuilt IoT tracker, IP67-certified battery pack, remote lock-unlock, anti-theft alarm, USB charger, drum brakes, and an LCD display. As a sustainable mobility solution, the M7 contributes to emission reduction and advocates for a cleaner future. With its convenience, efficiency, and sustainability, it is poised to transform urban commuting and last-mile logistics for individuals and businesses alike. (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel) Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights

Attero to Invest Over Rs 8,000 Crore in the Next 5 Years to Expand E-Waste and Battery Recycling Capacity Attero, a firm that recycles batteries and electronic waste, expects to invest about Rs 8,300 crore over the next five years in order to increase capacity, according to CEO and co-founder Nitin Gupta. Up to 1,44,000 tonnes of electronic garbage, or “e-waste,” and 15,000 tons of lithium-ion batteries can currently be recycled annually by the company. “In the next five years, we will obviously be investing roughly around USD 1 billion overall, including all forms of capital—debt, equity and sort of other non-diluted forms of capital,” Gupta told PTI. According to him, the business is expanding its capacity progressively while experiencing 100% yearly growth. “A greenfield facility in Europe will come up in Poland. Work has already started there. In India, we are building another greenfield facility. We are finalizing the space in Andhra Pradesh/Jharkhand. Our e-waste (recycling) capacity will get to roughly around 4,15,000 tonnes per annum. Our battery (recycling) capacity will broadly reach around 50,000 tonnes per annum in a year,” Gupta said. By 2027, the company hopes to generate revenue of over USD 2 billion, or over Rs 16,500 crore. “Industry is growing at roughly around 30 per cent per annum. We are growing at more than 100 per cent YoY. We had revenue of around Rs 285 crore in financial year 2023 and Rs 440 crore in FY24. This year we expect to cross Rs 1,000 crore in revenue. To achieve the USD 2 billion target, we just need to invest a few hundred crores to ramp up capacity,” Gupta said. According to him, every other Indian business creates an intermediary product that Attero or businesses outside of India refine further. “Globally, our competitors are sitting at less than 75 per cent extraction efficiency, whereas we are at 98 per cent. Our capex requirement for extraction is around USD 3,250 per tonne, whereas the global capex per tonne is between USD 5,500 to 10,000. We have the lowest opex in the world,” Gupta said. In comparison, the closest competitor of Attero, according to him, has a market share of less than 10%, while Attero’s is 25% and expected to reach 35% the following year. Content Credit: The Economic Times Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights (You can now subscribe to our All India EV WhatsApp channel)

E-Fill Electric to Participated in Franchise India Expo 2024 E-Fill Electric has announced its participation in the upcoming Franchise India Expo 2024, scheduled to be held on May 18th and 19th, 2024, at IICC Yashoboomi, Dwarka, New Delhi. Showcasing Diverse EV and EVSE Products At the event, E-Fill Electric will present its diverse range of EV and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) products, including the Muver+, X1, X2, X3 chargers, and the robust 60 kW charging solution. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, E-Fill Electric aims to revolutionize the EV charging landscape, offering efficient, reliable, and user-friendly solutions for both residential and commercial applications. Premier Platform for Networking and Collaboration The Franchise India Expo is a premier platform that brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors under one roof, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business expansion. CEO’s Vision for the Expo “We are excited to be a part of the Franchise India Expo 2024, as it provides us with a valuable platform to showcase our latest EV charging solutions and connect with potential franchisees and dealers. As the demand for electric mobility continues to soar, strategic partnerships and collaborations are key to accelerating the adoption of EV technology. Through our participation in this event, we aim to foster new relationships, drive brand awareness, and pave the way for a sustainable future.” Speaking about the company’s participation in the Franchise India Expo 2024, Mayank Jain, CEO of E-Fill Electric, expressed his enthusiasm. Opportunities with E-Fill Electric For aspiring franchisees and business enthusiasts visiting the expo, E-Fill Electric presents an exceptional opportunity. Partnering with E-Fill Electric isn’t just about owning a franchise; it’s about becoming a vital part of a movement dedicated to revolutionizing the EV charging landscape. Franchise Model and Business Benefits E-Fill Electric’s franchise model is intricately designed to bolster local economies while leveraging the advantages of a globally expanding brand, providing a distinctive fusion of local insight and international proficiency. Comprehensive Support System The company isn’t just selling products; they are building a comprehensive support system for the entire EV ecosystem. They offer dealerships for electric vehicles, giving customers a convenient way to buy and maintain their EVs. For those interested in EV charging infrastructure, E-Fill Electric has a scalable franchise model. This allows entrepreneurs to participate at a level that suits them, with options for both state-level Master Franchises and district-level Unit Franchises. High-Quality Charging Solutions Their manufacturing focuses on high-quality charging solutions ranging from 3.3kW to 120kW AC & DC chargers. This focus on manufacturing directly supports the growing needs of the EV industry, especially Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Charging Point Operators (CPOs) looking to build a strong charging network. Additionally, they provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to their franchisees, along with milestone rewards and the promise of long-term income. This partnership-driven approach fosters mutual success for E-Fill Electric and its partners. Join All India EV Community Click here for more such informative insights