States should adopt Delhi's commercial EV model, says Euler Motors chief

Saurav Kumar, chief executive of electric three-wheeler manufacturer Euler Motors, has urged state authorities to emulate Delhi's approach to commercial vehicle electrification, citing the capital's policy framework as a model for nationwide adoption.

Kumar highlighted three key barriers hindering commercial EV penetration across India: elevated acquisition costs compared to conventional vehicles, limited access to affordable financing schemes, and inadequate charging infrastructure in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Delhi's comprehensive policy framework, he noted, has begun addressing these challenges through targeted incentives and infrastructure development.

The Euler Motors executive emphasized that state governments hold considerable leverage in accelerating the commercial EV transition. Policies tailored to local market conditions, combined with subsidies and financing support for operators, could significantly improve the economic viability of electric commercial vehicles for fleet owners and individual operators.

Delhi has emerged as a leading market for commercial electric vehicles in India, supported by state subsidies, depot charging infrastructure, and regulatory measures favoring clean mobility. Experts believe similar coordinated policy approaches by other states could unlock substantial growth in India's commercial EV sector, which remains nascent despite growing environmental and economic imperatives.

The push for commercial EV adoption assumes greater significance as India seeks to reduce urban air pollution and meet climate commitments, while operators seek operational cost reductions through lower fuel and maintenance expenses.