World EV Day is observed annually on 9 September to promote electric mobility and encourage the shift towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation. The global campaign was launched in 2020 and has developed into an international platform for discussions on electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable transport.
Why EVs Matter for India
India’s EV transition is linked to several national priorities:
- Reducing dependence on petroleum imports and improving urban air quality.
- Strengthening domestic EV and battery manufacturing and creating new industrial supply chains.
- Increasing the use of renewable energy in transport.
- Generating employment and supporting India’s long-term climate commitments.
According to FADA data reported in August 2026, CNG, hybrid and electric passenger vehicles together accounted for around 42% of passenger-vehicle sales, slightly higher than petrol vehicles at about 41%.
Major Types of Electric Vehicles
| Type | Key Feature |
| BEV – Battery Electric Vehicle | Runs entirely on electricity stored in a rechargeable battery. |
| HEV – Hybrid Electric Vehicle | Uses an internal combustion engine and electric motor; the battery is generally charged through the engine and regenerative braking. |
| PHEV – Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle | Combines an internal combustion engine with a battery-electric drivetrain and can be externally charged. |
| FCEV – Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle | Generates electricity through a fuel cell, commonly using hydrogen. |
PM E-DRIVE Scheme
India’s major EV-support programme is the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme.
- Original outlay: ₹10,900 crore
- Government initially allocated ₹4,391 crore for 14,028 electric buses, along with support for other vehicle categories.
- Covers e-2Ws, e-3Ws, electric buses, electric ambulances, electric trucks, public charging infrastructure and upgradation of vehicle-testing agencies.
- The scheme has been extended up to 31 March 2028 for applicable segments.
- Incentivisation for the e-3W L5 segment was closed after its target was achieved.
EVs and India’s Climate Goals
At COP26, India announced the Panchamrit climate commitments, including the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Transport electrification can support this target, particularly when EV adoption is combined with renewable energy, energy storage, public transport, green hydrogen and energy efficiency.