New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in India, with Chandigarh, Goa and Delhi leading the way in terms of EV and charging infrastructure development, followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka, a report said on Monday.
The annual EV Index released by HERE Technologies and SBD Automotive found Chandigarh leading with an impressive score of 81.9.
Chandigarh’s success can be attributed to its comprehensive zero emission vehicle (ZEV) deployment plan, which focuses on the procurement of electric vehicles and setting up of charging infrastructure.
This strategic approach has resulted in Chandigarh not only securing the top position overall but also having the highest number of battery electric vehicle (BEV) chargers per state, with 148 chargers for 179 BEVs, the report said.
In terms of fleet penetration, Rajasthan has the highest percentage of BEVs in its vehicle population reaching 0.049 per cent.
Uttar Pradesh, on the other hand, has the largest BEV fleet in the country with around 18,300 EVs currently on the road, underlining the state’s key role in driving electric mobility adoption at the national level.
Automakers, energy companies and governments are investing in developing charging infrastructure, which is essential for the future of electric mobility.
“This difficult effort requires coordination not only among industry players, but also among consumers to ensure that EV demand is balanced with the supply of vehicles and charging options,” said Robert Fisher, Head of Electrification and Sustainability at SBD Automotive.
With approximately one charger every 12.5 km of road, Delhi ensures that EV drivers have easy access to charging facilities, addressing one of the major barriers to widespread adoption of EVs – range anxiety.
Chandigarh once again ranks first among states with adequate number of chargers, with 148 chargers having an average power capacity of 46 kW, making it a model for other regions looking to improve their charging infrastructure.
Abhijeet Sengupta, Senior Director and Business Head for India and Southeast Asia, Here Technologies, said the index empowers policymakers, industry leaders and consumers to make data-driven decisions that will accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in the country.
–IANS
AKS/GKT
