Pursuing electric mobility in India: Regional disparities and strategic gaps in sub-national electric vehicle policies

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) are widely promoted to decarbonise road transport and improve air quality. While EV adoption is advancing in the Global North, many developing economies face steep obstacles in transitioning to electric mobility. To build knowledge of governance strategies in the Global South, this study focuses on India, a rapidly growing vehicle market. We employ a policy mapping approach to identify policy implementation trends in four critical market areas: (1) EV adoption, (2) EV production, (3) infrastructure, and (4) restrictions on Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs). Spatially, we find that policies are concentrated in economically and industrially developed regions. In terms of market areas, most policies emphasise EV adoption, with several states also supporting infrastructure development. Few jurisdictions, however, have implemented ICEV restrictions or strategically support local EV-production. The analysis of policy instruments reveals an over-reliance on economic incentives and other soft measures like planning and information campaigns. In contrast, command-and-control measures are scarce. Our study provides the first systematic assessment of India's sub-national policies promoting electric mobility. Additionally, by identifying a deficiency of regulatory measures, ICEV restrictions and strategies to encourage local EV production, findings offer important insights for policymakers in India and other developing economies.