My friends often ask me if they should trade in their ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle and make a switch to EVs. Being a petrolhead all my life, I often ponder the same question. Is it really time to move on from ICE vehicles?
The EV revolution is no longer a distant dream—it's here, happening now, with backing from major players. The Indian government has set an ambitious target: 30% electric vehicle sales by 2030. That means within a decade, one in three new cars on Indian roads could be electric.
So, before I can answer the question of whether anyone should make the switch, let's take a moment to unpack the electric elephant in the room.
One of the biggest worries for potential EV buyers is range anxiety—the fear of running out of battery power far from a charging station.
The good news is that charging networks are expanding across major cities, and even traditional fuel stations are beginning to offer EV charging points. Companies such as Tata Power, IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, and EESL are working hard to establish a widespread network of chargers nationwide.
Public charging stations in India | Source: Bureau of Energy Efficiency website
Let’s talk about costs—because for most people, affordability is a major factor when considering an EV. There’s no denying that EVs tend to have higher upfront costs compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. The sticker price can feel daunting.
But here’s the good news: EVs are much cheaper to operate over time. You’ll save significantly on fuel expenses since electricity is far more affordable than petrol or diesel. Maintenance costs are also lower because EVs have fewer moving parts and don’t require frequent oil changes or other costly repairs.
To sweeten the deal, the government offers various incentives for EV buyers. Many states provide road tax exemptions and waive registration fees for electric vehicles, making them more attractive to eco-conscious consumers. These measures help offset the initial cost and make EV ownership more financially viable.
EVs are often touted as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles because they produce zero emissions while driving. However, their overall environmental impact depends on how the electricity used to charge them is generated. In India, where much of the electricity still comes from coal-fired power plants, this is an important consideration.
Now, India is making significant investments in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. As the power grid becomes greener over time, so will the environmental benefits of driving an EV. In a country grappling with severe air pollution in many cities, even small reductions in emissions can make a meaningful difference.
Despite some hurdles, the future of EVs in India looks bright. Advances in battery technology are helping reduce costs and improve driving ranges. Domestic manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra are ramping up their EV production efforts, while global automakers are also eyeing opportunities in the Indian market.
With growing awareness about sustainability and government policies pushing for cleaner transportation options, it’s clear that EVs will play a significant role in shaping India’s automotive landscape in the years ahead.
So, should you go electric? The answer depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Right now, there are many apps that can show you the location of the nearest charging station with a single click. The best way forward is doing your own research about which apps provide you the best deal in terms of convenience and coverage.
Ultimately, choosing an EV isn’t just about buying a car, it’s about embracing change and being part of a movement toward cleaner energy and more sustainable living. Whether you decide to switch now or later, one thing is certain: the era of electric vehicles has arrived, and it’s poised to transform how we think about mobility.