Transitioning to electric vehicles: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract

The rapid improvements in India’s financial status and the inadequate transport system have significantly contributed to the surge in cars and two-wheelers. However, these motor vehicles, which predominantly run on petrol and diesel, pose a severe threat to the environment as they emit greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, carbon monooxide , Methane , sulphur oxides, and nitrous oxides and particulate matter etc.. These emissions contribute significantly to air pollution, posing a grave threat to human health, especially in urban areas. It is imperative to take action now to safeguard the planet from future catastrophes and ensure a safer environment for both current and future generations. One significant step we can take is transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), which have far less environmental impact compared to those running on petrol and diesel. The Government of India has initiated several initiatives to promote EV usage. According to Statista, as of March 2023, there were 225,103,000 units operational EVs of all types in India .Electric vehicles emit significantly lower carbon emissions than gasoline vehicles, making them a crucial part of reducing environmental harm. According to recent studies, by 2030, EVs are expected to reduce nitrogen oxide by 17%, particulate matter by 18%, carbon monoxide by 18%, and carbon dioxide by 846.3 million tons. This paper high lights the transitioning towards zero emission public transport and the positive impacts of Electric vehicles on environment and the challenges before EV industry.