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Mint
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- Mint
EV vs Petrol: Electric vehicles prove cheaper to run in India, says CEEW study
As India's vehicle population is set to more than double by 2050, a new study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) has highlighted a significant shift in cost competitiveness between electric and petrol vehicles. The research shows that electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in the two- and three-wheeler categories, now offer a markedly lower total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to their petrol counterparts, a trend that could redefine the future of personal and commercial mobility in the country. According to the CEEW, electric two-wheelers are already the most economical option on Indian roads, costing just ₹ 1.48 per kilometre to operate, compared to ₹ 2.46 for petrol-powered versions. The advantage is even starker in the three-wheeler segment, where EVs cost ₹ 1.28/km versus ₹ 3.21/km for petrol-driven models. Commercial taxis, where operating costs heavily influence purchasing decisions, also stand to benefit significantly from the EV transition. 'Electric two- and three-wheelers are not just greener, but cheaper to run than petrol models. These segments are ripe for rapid electrification,' said Hemant Mallya, Fellow at CEEW. 'Cost advantages, especially in daily-use scenarios, will likely drive adoption faster in states that offer supportive policies.' The report attributes the shift in TCO dynamics to a combination of declining battery costs, supportive state-level incentives, and improved charging infrastructure. However, the cost competitiveness for private electric cars remains mixed across regions. Variations in state subsidies, electricity tariffs, and initial vehicle prices continue to affect affordability, the study notes. Despite the strong performance of EVs in the lighter vehicle categories, the report finds that electrification in heavier commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, lags behind. In 2024, electric medium and heavy goods vehicles remain costlier than those running on diesel, CNG, or LNG. With LNG expected to remain the cheapest fuel option for heavy transport until at least 2040, the study stresses the need for targeted research, infrastructure investments, and cost-reduction strategies to enable a transition in this segment. Without significant progress in electrification and green fuel adoption, diesel is projected to remain dominant in India's road transport sector until the late 2040s. Under a business-as-usual scenario, diesel demand would peak only by 2047, while petrol demand could peak earlier around 2032. Dr Himani Jain, Senior Programme Lead at CEEW, emphasised the broader implications: 'India's transport sector is at the crossroads of an energy, emissions, and urban planning challenge. Rising ownership and usage patterns will only increase congestion and environmental impact if we don't act now. We must prioritise clean, efficient, and cost-effective transport systems.' To manage the evolving cost landscape, the study recommends enhancing access to EV financing, particularly through public banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). Innovative battery rental or EMI-based models could make upfront costs more manageable. In parallel, better data on vehicle ownership at the district level—especially via the VAHAN portal—will help target incentives and infrastructure planning more effectively. As India steers towards a low-carbon future, aligning fuel economics with sustainability goals will be key. The CEEW's Transportation Fuel Forecasting Model (TFFM), which enables granular projections of vehicle stock and energy demand at the district level, is expected to be a critical tool for policymakers, automakers, and energy providers alike.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Electric two-wheelers in India: the affordable choice over petrol bikes
If you're still riding a petrol two-wheeler in India, you might be paying more than you need to. A new report by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) finds that electric two-wheelers are already the most affordable ride on the road—costing just ₹1.48 per kilometre, compared to ₹2.46/km for petrol models. That's not a small difference—it's a financial win for millions of Indian riders, from students to gig workers and city commuters. And with India expected to see over 350 million two-wheelers by 2050 (nearly 70% of the automobile market), that cost advantage could have a massive impact on both household budgets and national fuel use. EVs take the lead The CEEW report highlights how electric vehicles, especially two- and three-wheelers, are already cost-competitive across key segments. In the case of two-wheelers, the numbers speak for themselves: Electric two-wheelers: ₹1.48/km Petrol two-wheelers: ₹2.46/km Beyond the fuel savings, EVs come with lower maintenance costs, longer lifespan, and growing support through governtment subsidies and incentives like the PM E-Drive Scheme. "Electric vehicles (EVs) are already cost-competitive across key segments—especially two- and three-wheelers, taxis, and private cars in states with supportive EV policies," said the report. Why this matters: Cleaner, cheaper, smarter With a growing push toward cleaner energy and reduced oil dependency, the affordability of EVs could become a powerful lever for change—especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad, where vehicle density is highest. To make the most of this shift, CEEW recommends a three-pronged approach: expanding EV charging infrastructure , particularly in urban and peri-urban areas; improving financing models—such as EMIs or battery rental options—to make electric vehicles more accessible; and bridging data gaps through platforms like the VAHAN portal to enable smarter, more targeted policy and planning at the district level. "India's transport sector is grappling with a trifecta—energy security, congestion, and emissions. We need walkable, efficient, low-carbon urban transport systems," said Dr Himani Jain, Senior Programme Lead, CEEW. A massive market on the move In addition, the report noted that India's love affair with two-wheelers isn't ending anytime soon. By 2050, the number of two-wheelers on Indian roads is expected to soar to over 350 million, comprising nearly 70% of all vehicles in the country. This projection is based on GDP and population growth trends, and it underscores the central role of two-wheelers in India's transport ecosystem—especially in northern and western states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
Time of India
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Still riding petrol? Electric two-wheelers cost you just Rs 1.48/km, study says
If you're still riding a petrol two-wheeler in India, you might be paying more than you need to. A new report by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) finds that electric two-wheelers are already the most affordable ride on the road—costing just ₹1.48 per kilometre, compared to ₹2.46/km for petrol models. That's not a small difference—it's a financial win for millions of Indian riders, from students to gig workers and city commuters. And with India expected to see over 350 million two-wheelers by 2050 (nearly 70% of the automobile market), that cost advantage could have a massive impact on both household budgets and national fuel use. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo EVs take the lead The CEEW report highlights how electric vehicles, especially two- and three-wheelers, are already cost-competitive across key segments. In the case of two-wheelers, the numbers speak for themselves: Live Events Electric two-wheelers : ₹1.48/km Petrol two-wheelers : ₹2.46/km Beyond the fuel savings, EVs come with lower maintenance costs, longer lifespan, and growing support through governtment subsidies and incentives like the PM E-Drive Scheme. "Electric vehicles (EVs) are already cost-competitive across key segments—especially two- and three-wheelers, taxis, and private cars in states with supportive EV policies," said the report. Why this matters: Cleaner, cheaper, smarter With a growing push toward cleaner energy and reduced oil dependency, the affordability of EVs could become a powerful lever for change—especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad, where vehicle density is highest. To make the most of this shift, CEEW recommends a three-pronged approach: expanding EV charging infrastructure , particularly in urban and peri-urban areas; improving financing models—such as EMIs or battery rental options—to make electric vehicles more accessible; and bridging data gaps through platforms like the VAHAN portal to enable smarter, more targeted policy and planning at the district level. "India's transport sector is grappling with a trifecta—energy security, congestion, and emissions. We need walkable, efficient, low-carbon urban transport systems," said Dr Himani Jain, Senior Programme Lead, CEEW. A massive market on the move In addition, the report noted that India's love affair with two-wheelers isn't ending anytime soon. By 2050, the number of two-wheelers on Indian roads is expected to soar to over 350 million, comprising nearly 70% of all vehicles in the country. This projection is based on GDP and population growth trends, and it underscores the central role of two-wheelers in India's transport ecosystem—especially in northern and western states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
India's vehicle ownership to hit 500 million by 2050, led by two-wheelers and passenger cars
A latest study finds that the Indian vehicle ownership is on the path to rise to 500 million by 2050. (Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times) Check Offers India's vehicle ownership is projected to more than double by 2050, rising from 22.6 crore in 2023 to nearly 50 crore, according to new studies released by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW). The research highlights two-wheelers and private cars as the major drivers of this growth, with wide-ranging implications for fuel demand, infrastructure needs, and urban mobility challenges. Two-wheelers to dominate growth By 2050, two-wheelers are expected to account for nearly 70% of India's total vehicle stock, over 35 crore vehicles, under a business-as-usual scenario based on projected GDP and population growth. Private car ownership is also set to rise significantly, nearly tripling to reach around 9 crore units. This surge in vehicle numbers will place additional pressure on cities already struggling with congestion, emissions, and inadequate infrastructure. Growth concentrated in northern and western states Most of the vehicle stock growth will be concentrated in states like Uttar Pradesh, which alone could have more than 9 crore vehicles by mid-century. Other states likely to see significant growth include Bihar, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. In contrast, southern states may experience a slowdown in vehicle growth due to declining population growth rates. Urban and peri-urban centres, such as Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Thane, and Ahmedabad, will remain major vehicle hubs, collectively accounting for about 10% of the projected total vehicle stock. EV two-wheelers are cost-competitive The studies find that electric two- and three-wheelers already offer lower running costs compared to their petrol counterparts. The total cost of ownership (TCO) for an electric two-wheeler is ₹ 1.48/km, compared to ₹ 2.46/km for a petrol model. For electric three-wheelers, the cost is ₹ 1.28/km versus ₹ 3.21/km for petrol. Electric vehicles in the taxi and private car segments are also becoming competitive, though cost advantages vary depending on state-level EV incentives, upfront costs, and charging tariffs. In states with supportive EV policies, electric cars can offer savings, but the economics remain inconsistent across the country. Commercial transport still dependent on fossil fuels In contrast to smaller vehicles, electric trucks and buses remain significantly more expensive than diesel, CNG, or LNG models. LNG is expected to remain the cheapest option for medium and heavy vehicles until at least 2040. Without major improvements in electric vehicle affordability and charging infrastructure, diesel use in commercial transport is projected to continue into the 2040s. The study estimates that under a business-as-usual scenario, diesel demand would only peak by 2047, while petrol demand could plateau earlier, around 2032. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 17 Jun 2025, 15:26 PM IST
Mint
6 days ago
- Climate
- Mint
In charts: Beyond heatwaves, how warmer nights are making summer unbearable
India is once again grappling with dangerous heatwave conditions, particularly across its northern, north-western and central regions, after an early monsoon briefly brought relief. Temperatures are around or above 40 degrees Celsius in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi and Haryana, among other places. Though India is no stranger to extreme heat, warmer nights – an insidious climate pattern – are making summers agonising. A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), a policy think tank, found that not only is India experiencing warmer nights, but nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime heat, creating conditions that prevent the human body from recovering from daily heat stress. Also read | Crisis alert: Careless water management poses an existential threat to India An analysis of CEEW data, shared exclusively with Mint, shows that over a third of Indian districts analysed had five or more additional 'very warm nights' during 2012-2022 compared to historical trends during 1982-2011. Around 10% of these districts saw an additional 10 days of very warm nights during the decade to 2022. CEEW defines 'very warm nights' as periods when both minimum and maximum temperatures exceeded what was normally observed 95% of the time during 1982-2011. Moreover, 'very warm nights' outnumbered 'very hot days' in about 26 years of the 1982-2022 period, with the longest streak witnessed between 2005 and 2018. While there have been more 'very hot days' than 'very hot nights' since 2019, both their numbers are significantly higher now. Years that witnessed El Nino, a climatic phenomenon that causes less rainfall, saw a spike in the number of very hot days and very warm nights, but the impact was more pronounced for very warm nights. Also read: The world has already breached a dangerous level of warming, and India isn't prepared Region-wise, districts in eight states—Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Telangana—experienced more than 10 additional very warm nights each summer in 2012 and 2022 relative to 1982-2011. In February 2025 the India Meteorological Department (IMD) included 'night temperature above normal' in their daily releases for the first time, Down to Earth reported. The weather agency regularly includes updates on warm night conditions in their daily releases, underlining the severity of the problem. The pattern of extreme heat during days—with little or no relief during nights—brings severe health risks. 'Warmer nights prevent the human body from cooling down after intense daytime heat. This significantly increases health risks such as heat strokes and worsens non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension," CEEW said in the report released last month. Also read: Changes in western disturbances may adversely affect food security, crop productivity Warmer nights are being observed in countries such as the UK and the US as well. According to an article published in The Conversation, warm nights have doubled in 50 years in Oxford, UK. Similarly, an analysis of 247 major US cities by Climate Central found they are currently experiencing about 27 warmer-than-normal days compared to the 1970s. These trends are in line with the risks of climate change being seen around the world, with temperatures rising each passing year and heat conditions lingering longer than before. With global temperatures expected to keep rising—after hitting a record 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900) in 2024—conditions are likely to worsen.
