Electric Vehicles in India are growing rapidly. It is a demand to go green and save the environment with sustainable development. In this way, alternative fuel vehicles are in global demand. Electric vehicles are the most popular and adopted way to go green globally. In India, many Indian manufacturers as well as foreign investors have already launched many brands in the Indian Market.
India is growing their EVs market in all segments like two-wheelers, Three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and commercial buses & trucks.
Indian Government has supported electric vehicles with several rebates like manufacturing rebates to the producers and tax rebates to the customers.
Despite that, there are still electric vehicles are still facing many challenges.
# Challenges for Electric Vehicles:
1. Mindset of the Consumers for Electric Vehicles:
The majority of Indian Customers are unaware of the impact of emissions on the environment and the after-effects of the same on future generations, so they are not very sensible to stop the pollutants and make their environment clean and green.
2.Affordability of EVs:
Even after government incentives and tax rebates, still electric vehicles are costlier compared to gasoline-engine vehicles. The running cost of these electric vehicles is less but the initial cost of purchasing the vehicle is high. The Indian government has reduced costs with FAME 2 incentives. The two-wheelers and three-wheelers can achieve cost uniformity and even reduce cost in the long term for vehicles operating in commercial activities. But we are behind in achieving this equality for four-wheeler segments.
3.Charging Anxiety with EVs:
Even though the electric vehicles market in India is growing and the consumer base is increasing day by day. Still, there is a fear in the mind of the electric vehicle driver of getting discharged their car vehicles in between trips. The charging infrastructure is not growing very rapidly in India; we have only 20,000 public charging stations to date. Many major players are in the field to develop the charging infrastructure but it will take a long time to come into existence.
4. Range of EVs:
The average range of Indian electric cars is around 350 to 400 k.ms and this is good for the city and around-the-city movement but in the end, there is always a fear of being discharged, during the trip.
5. Convenience: Charging a vehicle takes time to get it fully charged and is not as easy as re-filling the fuel in the vehicle. Even though the public charging stations are not very close around out of the city, it is also a tough job to get your vehicle fully charged. It takes a minimum of 30 minutes to 2 hours to get it at its full charge.
6.Regulatory Challenges:
The government policies and regulations are not very clear and consistent. The well-defined regulations, clear tax incentives & rebates, and setting clear targets for electric vehicle adoption can encourage investment and innovation in the sector.
#Opportunities of Electric Vehicles in India:
Apart from all the challenges with electric vehicles in India, there are many opportunities also associated with this like:
1. Government Support to Electric Vehicles:
The Indian government is committed to the development and promotion of alternative fuel vehicles and electric vehicles as part of these initiatives comes under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) Scheme. The FAME is the financial scheme supported by the Indian Government to provide financial incentives for the adoption of Electric Vehicles.
2. Growing Market:
The urban population of India is growing rapidly and this population is of literate people, who are more concerned about environmental issues. As the awareness of a clean and green environment rises, more consumers are willing to switch to alternative fuel vehicles and electric vehicles are one of the best available choices to date.
3. Job Creation:
The electric vehicle development and growth create many employment opportunities in the fields of research and development, design, manufacturing, sales, service, and various sister concerns.
4. Innovations:
The Indian electric vehicle market provides opportunities for innovations in different areas like battery technology innovations, charging infrastructure development, and electric mobility solutions for the country’s special needs and challenges.
5. Rural Electrification:
The rural electrification initiative will be geared up with the adoption of electric vehicles, as this will accelerate initiatives like solar-powered charging stations. This could bring clean transportation options to remote areas.
6. Partnership and collaboration:
The Indian government, industry players, and academia can come together and in collaboration, they can drive innovations and accelerate the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem. Partnerships with international players can provide new innovative technologies and even foreign investments.
7. Export Potential:
India has the potential to become a manufacturing hub for electric vehicles with a cost-effective and skilled workforce.
Conclusion:
This is the new era of alternative fuel vehicles and electric vehicles are one of the most popular globally. There are many of government support to promote electric vehicles in India. The government is providing many rebates and tax relaxation. FAME is employed to promote the faster manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles throughout India. Even though, there are many challenges in the expansion of electric vehicles unawareness of Indian consumers, less and undeveloped Infrastructure like charging networks, High initial cost of the vehicles, etc.
Despite all the challenges, we should come forward to sustainable development to provide a clean and green environment for future generations.
Cold weather causes challenges for electric vehicle owners. Electric Vehicles are getting frozen in cold weather. It is experienced by many electric vehicle drivers and even experts say that cold weather is causing a 30% loss in battery range and an increased charge time (approx. Triple) for electric vehicles.
Electric vehicles are facing problems like fall in performance, less battery life, bigger charge times, etc.
In a city like Pennsylvania in the United States, cold weather is causing serious problems for electric vehicle owners. In winter weather at extreme cold, the batteries of electric vehicles are going discharge faster and take much extra time to recharge it again.
An electric car owner at a Tesla charging station near Chicago shared that “I was at 50% when I got here and usually it takes 10 to 15 minutes to charge from 50 to 80, 90% but now in the cold it is taking an hour and 20 minutes for the same.
Reason for Battery-Troubles of Electric Vehicles in Cold:
Source: Tricky_Shark/Shutterstock.com
The experts of electric battery and fuel cells states the cold weather is causing organic chemical reactions within the chemical substances of the electric battery and that slows down its performance exponentially. The experts say battery range for electric vehicles can be reduced by up to 30% in the cold and at zero degrees can lose 10 times the amount of power. The re-charging of the batteries can take double and even triple times in the cold.
As told by the battery & fuel cells specialist and Chair Professor at Penn State’s Department of Material Science and Engineering, Mr. Chao- Yang Wang, told, “The chemistry in the battery will slow down almost exponentially with the decreasing temperature”.
As of now, the current electric vehicle charging infrastructure is less in number and at are far in distance which is also a trouble for the electric vehicle owner to go for a long in the cold.
The characteristics of lithium-ion batteries are very sensitive to excess temperature in cold weather. The battery-making companies are working continuously to develop better technology to nullify the existing defects and improve the performance of electric vehicles for all climates.
Electric vehicle (EV) batteries can experience challenges in cold weather due to several factors:
Most electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries, which are sensitive in case of excess temperatures. The efficiency of the lithium-ion batteries decreases in cold weather and the capacity to provide and accept the charge weakens. The chemical reactions within the battery become slower in colder temperatures and decrease the overall performance.
2. Reduced Energy Storage Capacity:
The energy storage capacity of lithium-ion batteries is minimal in cold weather. And when the temperature drops, the internal resistance of the battery rises, and it creates difficulty for electrons to move within the cells and the overall energy output of the battery decreases.
3. Increased Internal Resistance:
The internal resistances of the batteries are high in cold temperatures, which causes higher losses during the charging and discharging processes. This internal resistance can cause the battery to heat up during the process and this may further reduce the overall efficiency of the battery.
4. Charging Limitations:
In cold weather during charging the battery, gets overheated, and due to this reason, it takes longer time to charge the battery of the electric vehicles.
5. Range Reduction:
In cold, the battery energy of electric vehicles is used for heating the systems, which affects significantly the driving, range of the electric vehicles.
Solution of Electric Vehicles Battery Low Charge in Cold Weather:
Battery pre-conditioning:
To overcome the impact of cold weather on electric vehicle batteries, many electric vehicles are now coming with the facility of battery pre-conditioning systems. These systems are used to heat and the battery before starting the vehicle, which improves the performance of the battery.
Experts suggest using the pre-condition setting offered in some electric vehicles to optimize the battery performance in cold weather. Drivers should also ensure a full charge and keep their electric vehicles in warmer condition when not in use as possible.
Whenever electric vehicle drivers notice that their vehicles are performing less in the cold, They should know to practice some necessary tips to maximize the battery life and better performance.
Conclusions:
The electric vehicle market is growing globally and many different players like Tesla, BYD, Toyota, Hyundai, Mercedes, and many more are involved in manufacturing and R&D.
Despite, the current battery technology has trouble in combating the issue; however, innovations are going on by different institutions. The scientific solution to this problem is available but it will take time for the automobile industries to implement it practically. It is expected that within four to five years this problem will go away completely.
By the time, a basic preparatory work is required to do before you make a trip, like checking you’re a battery at its full charge capacity, and pre-heating of the vehicle.
During January 8-14, the second week (W2) of the year 2024, China’s electric vehicles market showed mixed development, with some brands continuing to decline while others already started growing, especially the major manufacturers like Li Auto, Aito, and Tesla. BYD was down by 09%, Tesla was up by 130%, and Nio was down by 43% from the week before. A surprise lift and lead over Li Auto was held by the electric vehicle startup Aito.
Source: Li Auto, Based on Insurance registration
A weekly sale data published by Li Auto based on the weekly insurance registrations of the cars sold. The numbers present new energy vehicles i.e. BEVs, PHEVs, and EREVs (Range extenders electric vehicles).
BYD Electric Vehicles:
BYD got the first spot, registering 40,300 electric vehicles, and is still lagging by 9.23% from 44,400, the week before. In the first half of the month i.e. during 1st-14th January, BYD sold 84,700 in China.
The sole model on sale of BYD’s Brand was YangWang, a 1.089 million yuan i.e 153,000 U.S dollar, dedicated SUV YangWang U9, registered 1060 vehicles and was 16.9% less than the week before.
Another brand of BYD, Fang Cheng Bao (FCB), also has a sole model known as Bao5 was on sale, it was registered for 1060 vehicles and was 5% less than the week before. Fang Cheng Bao is also a premium brand but is much cheaper than the number one brand YangWang. Bao 5 UV is priced around 300,000 yuan i.e. 42,000 U.S dollars.
The third brand of BYD is Denza, which was formerly a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz, which came into control of BYD in 2021. It ranked above BYD Badged cars but is below the brand Fang Cheng Bao (FCB). A total number of 1500 cars were registered Denza which was 6.25% lower than the 1600 cars the week before. In the first half, i.e. during 1st-14th January, Denza sold 3100 cars in China.
Source: Li Auto, Based on Insurance registration
Tesla Electric Vehicles market In China:
The total number of EVs registered by the Brand Tesla was enormously high and was a total of 7400 electric vehicles, up by 131.25% from 3,2000 the week before. In the first half of January 2024 i.e in the period 1st to 14 January, Tesla sold a total number of 10,600 electric vehicles in China.
Source: Li Auto, Based on Insurance registration
Nio EVs Manufacturer:
The other manufacturer Nio, registered a total number of 1,700 EVs, and was less by 43.33% from 3000 the week before. In the first half of the month of January 2024, Nio sold only 4,700 EVs in China.
Source: Li Auto, Based on Insurance registration
Huawei’s Aito:
Huawei’s Aito, got a second-time first spot among the startups for Electric Vehicles, registering a total number of 6,800 vehicles which is 15.25% up from 5900 vehicles the week before. In the first half of the month of January 2024, i.e. from 1st to 14th, Aito sold a total number of 12800 vehicles in China. Aito manage to sell both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and Range extenders electric vehicles (EREVs).
A big surprise of 2023 is the sales figure of Aito, as Huawei got tired of its struggling sales and used its deep pocket to introduce radical price cuts and various benefits, and surprisingly it worked. Aito jumped from 2K-3K monthly sales to almost 25000 vehicles sold in the month of December 2023 and became a relevant player in the tight China Electric Vehicle race.
Source: Li Auto, Based on Insurance registration
Li Auto:
Li Auto gave a very close fight to Huawei’s Aito, as it was closely second in electric vehicles startup sales and it registered 6800 vehicles which is around 58.14% from 4300 the week before. From the 1st to the 14th of January, in the first half of the month, li Auto sold 11,000 vehicles in China. Li Auto sells only Range Extenders electric vehicles (EREVs).
The third position was grabbed by Changan’s Deepal, which makes 3300 vehicles and is less by 2.94% from 3400 the week before. From the first to 14 January, in the first half of the month, Deepal sold 6700 vehicles in China. The two models SL03 sedan and S7 SUV of Deepal comes in battery electric vehicles(BEVs), Range Extenders electric vehicles (EREVs), and Fuel cell electric vehicles(FCEVs).
Volkswagen sold 3500 electric vehicles and is down by 7.89% from 3800, the week before. From the first to 14 January, in the first half of the month, Volkswagen sold 7300 electric vehicles in China.
Conclusion:
The electric vehicles market in all around the world is booming and the China market is all time high for alternative fuel vehicles specially for the electric vehicles manufacturing and the sells. in the first half of the month January 2024 , the Chinese manufacturer BYD response is comparatively good and is the major seller of all electric vehicles. And Li auto is just behind the BYD.
An electric vehicle (EV) is an automobile that makes use of one or more electric power system to propel the vehicle. The electric vehicles are powered by the energy stored in a collector system of an extravehicular source. Even they could be powered independently by using a battery (every so often charged with the aid of solar panels, or with the aid of changing gasoline to energy the use of gasoline cells or a generator).
Electric vehicles comprise street and rail motors, submerged vessels, electric-powered spacecraft, and planes. Electric vehicles were first introduced in the late nineteenth century, while energy became a few of the desired strategies for motor automobile propulsion. Internal combustion engines have been the main propulsion technique for automobiles for the last hundred years, whereas, electric-powered energy has remained common in different automobiles like trains and smaller motors.
Different Types of Electric Vehicles are:
1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV):
A battery unit charged by electricity solely powers the battery electric vehicle. The battery electric vehicles entirely depend on the electricity stored in the battery, for power to run the vehicles and there is no internal combustion engine to propel or give power to the wheels of these vehicles.
The battery electric vehicles are charged by plugging into an electric power source at home or the charging station.
Figure 1 Battery Electric Vehicle
Component of Battery Electric Vehicle:
1. Electric Motor:
Electric motor is the primary propulsion system in the battery electric vehicle. The electric motor converts battery electrical energy into mechanical energy to the wheel of the vehicle.
2. Battery Pack:
The battery pack is the collection of individual cells that store electrical energy. These cells are usually lithium-ion batteries. The size and capacity of the battery pack determine the range of vehicles.
3. Power Inverter:
In electrical vehicles, the alternating current (A.C) powers the electric motor. The direct current (DC) from the battery is converted into alternating current by the power inverter.
4. Charging Port:
In battery-electric vehicles, there is a charging port, which is provided to recharge the battery through an external power source. There may be different types of connectors depending on the charging infrastructure.
5. Onboard Charger:
The onboard charger converts the AC power from the external source into DC power suitable for charging the battery.
6. Thermal Management System:
The thermal management system is essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures of both the battery and the electric motor. This system helps to ensure the long life and effectiveness of electrical components like the battery and the motor.
7. Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) and Battery Management System (BMS):
The vehicle control unit manages various vehicle functions and the battery management system monitors and manages the state of charge, temperature, and the overall health of the battery.
Working Principles of Battery Electric Vehicles:
The working principles of battery electric vehicles can be described as explained below:
1. Charging:
The battery electric vehicle is charged by plugging it into an external power source. The onboard charger converts AC power from the source into DC power to charge the battery.
2. Battery Storage:
The battery stores the electrical energy into chemical form. The energy is later converted back to electricity to power the electric motor.
3. Discharging:
When the driver accelerates the vehicle, the VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) sends signals to the power inverter, which converts DC power from the battery into AC power for the electric motor.
4. Propulsion:
The electric motor uses this electrical energy to generate mechanical energy, driving the wheels and propelling the vehicle.
5. Regenerative Braking:
During braking. The electric motor can act as a generator, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy. This energy is then fed back into the battery, enhancing the overall efficiency.
2. Fuel –Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV):
A fuel-cell electric vehicle is an electric vehicle that uses a fuel cell to generate electricity on board. These vehicles generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell.
The hydrogen and oxygen in water produce electricity and release heat as a byproduct. A fuel cell vehicle also known as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle operates on a different principle compared to battery electric vehicles.
The most common type of fuel cell used in FCEVs is the proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell.
Figure 2.a. Hydrogen Fuel Electric Vehicle Layout
Figure 2.b Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Block Diagram.
Component of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles:
1. Fuel Cell Stack:
The fuel cell stack is the heart of an FCEV. It consists of multiple individual fuel cells that use a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. The most common type of fuel cell for FCEVs is the proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell.
The chemical reaction is 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O + electrical energy.
2. Hydrogen Tank:
The fuel cell electric vehicles store compressed gas in high-pressure tanks. The hydrogen is then delivered to the fuel cell stack when needed.
3. Power Control unit:
The power control unit manages the flow of electrical power between the fuel cell stack and the electric motor. It may include power electronics to regulate the voltage and current for optional performance.
4. Electric Motor:
These fuel vehicles are equipped with an electric motor that is powered by the electricity generated in the fuel cell stack. This motor drives the wheel of the vehicle.
5. Battery (optional):
In some FCEVs, a small battery can be included to store excess energy generated by the fuel cell stack. This battery can provide additional power during acceleration or other high–demand situations.
6. Air Intake:
For the electrochemical reaction with hydrogen, the FCEVs pull the atmospheric air through the air intake system to provide the necessary oxygen to the fuel cell.
7. Water Vapour Release:
The byproduct of the chemical reaction in the fuel cell is water vapor, which is released as part of the vehicle’s emissions.
Working Principles of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles:
1. Hydrogen Intake:
Compressed hydrogen gas is taken from the high-pressure storage tank and fed into the fuel cell stack.
2. Electrochemical Reaction:
In the fuel cell stack, hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the air to produce electricity, water vapor, and heat. The generated electricity that powers the electric motor.
3. Electricity Generation:
The electric motor uses the generated electricity to propel the vehicle. The electric motor works like that of battery electric vehicles.
4. Water Vapor Release:
The only emission from a fuel cell vehicle is water vapor, making it a clean and environmentally friendly option.
5. Regenerative Braking:
Similar to battery electric vehicles, some Fuel cell electric vehicles incorporate regenerative braking, where the electric motor acts as a generator during braking to recover energy and charge the battery if present.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles are considered environmentally friendly because they produce zero emissions at the tailpipe, and their only byproduct is water vapor. However, challenges include the development of a hydrogen infrastructure for refueling and the energy-intensive process of producing hydrogen.
3. Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle:
A plug-in hybrid vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle that combines features of both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and battery electric vehicles. Plug-in hybrid vehicles have the ability to operate on electric power alone for a certain distance and can also use an internal combustion engine for longer journeys. The key feature of a PHEV is its ability to be charged by plugging into an external power source.
Figure 3 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Component of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
1. Electric Motor:
PHEVs are equipped with an electric motor that can propel the vehicle using electricity stored in a battery. The electric motor works in tandem with the internal combustion engine.
2. Battery Pack:
PHEVs have a larger battery pack compared to traditional hybrids, allowing them to store more electrical energy for extended electric-only driving. The battery is typically charged by plugging into an electric power source.
3. Internal Combustion Engine:
PHEVs also have a traditional internal combustion engine, usually powered by gasoline or diesel, which provides additional range when the battery is depleted.
4. Charging Port:
PHEVs are equipped with a charging port that allows the vehicle to be connected to an external power source, such as a standard electrical outlet or a dedicated charging station.
5.Onboard Charger:
The onboard charger converts AC power from the external source into DC power suitable for charging the battery.
6.Power Control Unit (PCU):
The PCU manages the power flow between the electric motor, the battery, and the internal combustion engine, optimizing efficiency and performance.
7. Regenerative Braking:
PHEVs often feature regenerative braking, where the electric motor acts as a generator during braking to convert kinetic energy back into electrical energy, which is then used to charge the battery.
Working Principle of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles:
1.Electric-Only Mode:
In electric-only mode, the PHEV operates using electricity stored in the battery. This mode is suitable for shorter trips and can be used for commuting or driving in urban areas.
2. Hybrid Mode:
When the battery charge is depleted or additional power is needed for high-demand situations, the internal combustion engine kicks in, and the vehicle operates in a hybrid mode. In this mode, both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine work together to provide power to the wheels.
3. Charging:
PHEVs can be charged by plugging into an electric power source. The battery can be charged overnight using a standard electrical outlet or more quickly using a dedicated charging station.
4.Fueling:
For longer trips or when the battery is depleted, PHEVs can be fueled like traditional vehicles at gas stations, using gasoline or diesel.
PHEVs offer a balance between the benefits of electric-only driving and the flexibility of a traditional internal combustion engine, making them a suitable choice for drivers who want to reduce their fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing the convenience of longer driving ranges.
3. Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle
A Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) is a type of hybrid vehicle that incorporates a small electric motor to assist the internal combustion engine. Unlike full hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles, MHEVs cannot operate on electric power alone for an extended period; instead, the electric motor provides support to the conventional engine. The primary purpose of the electric motor in MHEVs is to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Figure 4 full Hybrid and mild hybrid vehicles
Components of Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle:
1.Electric Motor:
MHEVs have a small electric motor that assists the internal combustion engine during acceleration and other high-demand situations. This motor is generally not powerful enough to propel the vehicle on its own.
2.Battery:
MHEVs feature a small battery, typically with a lower capacity than the batteries in full hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles. The battery stores energy captured during braking and deceleration, which is then used to assist the engine.
3.Start-Stop System:
Many MHEVs are equipped with a start-stop system, where the internal combustion engine turns off when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights. The electric motor helps restart the engine quickly and smoothly when needed.
4. Regenerative Braking System:
MHEVs often employ regenerative braking, similar to full hybrid vehicles. The electric motor acts as a generator during braking, converting kinetic energy into electricity, which is then used to charge the small battery.
5. Power Assistance:
The electric motor provides additional power during acceleration, reducing the load on the internal combustion engine and improving overall fuel efficiency.
Working Principle of MHEVs:
1. Idle Start- Stop:
When the vehicle comes to a stop, the internal combustion engine is automatically turned off to save fuel. The small electric motor helps restart the engine quickly when the driver releases the brake or presses the accelerator.
2. Acceleration Assistance:
During acceleration, the electric motor provides additional power to assist the internal combustion engine, reducing fuel consumption.
3. Regenerative Braking System:
When the driver applies the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator, capturing energy during deceleration. This energy is used to charge the small battery.
4. Battery Assistance:
The stored electrical energy in the small battery is used to provide additional power to the electric motor during acceleration or other situations where extra power is required.
MHEVs offer fuel efficiency benefits without the need for external charging. They are often positioned as a cost-effective and simpler alternative to full hybrids or plug-in hybrids, providing some of the advantages of electrification without significant changes to the vehicle’s overall design or driving experience.
Present Scenarios of Alternative Fuel Vehicles In India
Factors Driving The Shift To Greener Mobility
Affordability & Maintenance
Conclusions
Introductions:
Alternative fuel vehicles may be defined as a vehicle that is powered by any fuel other than conventional petroleum fuels (diesel or petrol).The term “alternative fuel,” as defined by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Energy Policy Act of 1992, refers to-:
biodiesel,
electricity,
ethanol,
hydrogen,
natural gas,
propane,
and new fuels, still under development
Why Alternative Fuel Vehicles:
India is the third-largest user of transport automobiles in the world and 70% of its transport energy need is fulfilled by importing fossil fuels.
“The aim is to gradually shift to fuels, which are import substitutes, cost-effective, indigenous and pollution-free.
Conventional Fuels are limited and depleting.
The conventional fuel (gasoline) is not renewable and a day will come when our vehicles will be useless with an empty stomach as there will be no fuel to fill in. Therefore, it is necessary to go for an alternative solution.
Alternative Fuels are Pollution-free
Alternative fuel vehicles do not emit harmful exhaust gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide as well as ozone-producing emissions.
Protect against global warming
Burning fossil fuels causes a temperature rise in the earth’s atmosphere i.e. global warming.
To Save Money
Alternative fuels are less expensive in terms of the cost of fuel and maintenance of the vehicle.
Present Scenarios of Alternative Fuel Vehicles In India:
As per the Economic Times Report, 20% of cars sold in metros run on alternate fuels; sales doubled in the last 3 years.
Present Scenarios of Alternative Fuel Vehicles In India:
The Economic Times report said that the market share of alternative vehicles increased to reach 12.95 percent in urban centers this year. And this was only 4.68 percent in 2020.
Rural areas have also seen a shift on similar lines where the market share for vehicles operating on alternate powertrains rose to 8.39 percent from 3.75 percent during the same period,
Certainly, this growing acceptance of hybrid and electric vehicles hit the combined share of diesel and petrol vehicles and has gone down by 8.27 percent in Urban and 4.64 percent in rural markets.
Factors driving the shift to greener mobility:
Government push and rebates to both the manufacturers and the end users, resulted in the car manufacturers launching more electric-powered vehicles, along with the expansion of CNG dispensing stations and growing charging infrastructure for EVs, which are driving the shift away from conventional fossil fuels.
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid and) Electric Vehicles (FAME) – I and II:
FAME, or Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid and) Electric vehicles, is currently India’s flagship scheme for promoting electric mobility
In its 2nd phase of implementation, FAME-II is being implemented on 1st April 2019 with a budget allocation of 10,000 Cr.
Two Wheeler: Rs 15000/- per kWh up to 40% of the cost of vehicles
Two Wheeler: 2 kWh
2.
Three Wheeler: Rs 10000/- per kWh
Three Wheeler: 5 kWh
3.
Four Wheeler : Rs 10000/- per kWh
Three Wheeler: 15 kWh
4.
E Buses: Rs 20000/- per kWh
E Buses: 250 kWh
5.
E Trucks: Rs 20000/- per kWh
E Truck: 250 kWh
The government has initiated work on the third phase of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME-III) financial support scheme, which is likely to encompass alternative fuel vehicles,
According to a senior government official, there is a proposal to incorporate vehicles powered by alternative sources such as hydrogen and biofuels along with electric vehicles in the upcoming phase of FAME.
“The objective is to shift away from conventional polluting vehicles, and the incentive for alternative fuels aims to encourage the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) to cleaner technology,” government officials observed
As per the ET report, the Managing director of Tata Motors passenger vehicle and Passenger electric mobility, “Diesel in any case is declining.
He added that for us, we are very clear that we have defined our net zero in 2040, which means a very fast acceleration of EVs.”
Affordability & Maintenance of Electric Car:
Running Cost of Tata Tiago Electric Car:
Monthly Charging Cost Rs. 750
Daily Charging Cost Rs. 25
Per KM charging Costs Rs. 0.5
This cost is calculated based on charging the vehicle at a rate of 6.5/ units of electricity and assuming a daily run of 50 kilometers.
Maintenance of Electric Car:
As there is no internal combustion engine and no moving parts, the wear and tear is zero, hence no need to keep regular maintenance like filling mobile oil, coolant, etc.
Only periodic Tyre and battery maintenance is required in all-electric vehicles.
Conclusion:
Many Indian manufacturers like Maruti and Tata Motors are working towards doubling their EV portfolio and offering different electric vehicles in the next few months.
The share of diesel vehicles has dropped to 15 percent from the peak of 88 percent,
The share of electric vehicle sales has risen to 14-15 percent.
The EV share is likely to grow further to 25 percent by 2027 and 50 percent by the end of the decade.
The number of Electric Car consumers are increasing, and various convincing opinions are there in favor of this revolutionary trend. However, some people hold a negative perception of the electric vehicles and claim that these vehicles are not fit for daily use.
As more Electric car charging stations are being established throughout cities and highways across the world, people’s perceptions are changing and they are looking forward to electric vehicles.
Source: Image by Senivpetro on Freepik.
The electric cars have numerous benefits over a gasoline powered vehicles.
The following 10 economical and environmental reasons why we should go for an electric vehicle:
1. Safety features of Electric Car:
Electric cars are equipped with many advanced safety features, which ensures that EV owners keep themselves, their belongings, and others on the road to be safe.
As per the report from the Institute for Highway Safety, the electric vehicle injury claims are substantially less than the gas vehicles.
Electric Cars are generally come with the following safety features:
Adaptive Cruise Control in Electric Car:
The adaptive cruise control system monitors the objects in front of the vehicle using the sensors or cameras. If your vehicle is just about to rear end of someone, the adaptive cruise control technology will instantly engage your brakes to prevent a collision.
Automatic High Beam Deactivation in Electric Car:
This is a camera based system that deactivates the high beams when detects a close distance between two vehicles.
Forward Collision Warning(FCW)System in Electric Car:
The forward collision warning system uses sensors to identify a potential accident when your vehicle approaches a vehicle or other things ahead. The FCW system informs you when you are going too fast and recommend you to slow down to avoid an accident.
Lane Departing Warning(LDW)System:
This system is a camera-based technology that senses and detects whether the driver is about to drift out of their lane using onboard camera.
Lane Keeping Assistance:
The lane keeping assistance pushes the vehicle back into its lane when a driver fails to respond the lane-departure warning.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
This monitorstraffic in the adjoining lanes and indicates if a vehicle approaches from either side.
Surround View Camera:
The facility supports in parking by providing the driver with 360- degree picture of the vehicle and its surroundings
2. Instant Torque and Acceleration of Electric Car:
The twisting force, torque is the important features, which makes electric vehicles different from the fuel-powered vehicles or gasoline vehicles. The electric motor’s allows instantly moving away when you press the pedal in a hybrid or electric vehicles.
The major difference between electric and gas powered vehicle is that the electric vehicles does not need any transmission system. In electric vehicles, by pressing the acceleration pedal, the car’s motor immediately sends power to the wheels and develops an instant torque and the acceleration.
In gasoline-powered vehicles, the engine power can be delivered to the wheels after an operation of multi-gear downshift. And in case of electric vehicles, only a simple connection to the battery is required to power the wheels.
Source: Image by Fanjianhua on Freepik.
3. Silent and comfortable Features in Electric Car:
In electric vehicles, as there is no engine and very few moving parts, the noise is negligible. Thus, the silence and the comfort is the two basic things that people look for in their car, and gets in an electric vehicles.
The electric vehicles are equipped with all the modern features like air-conditioning, heating and other amenities, which provides all comforts to the passengers.
4. Less Maintenance:
As there is no engine and transmission system and very few moving parts in electric vehicles, there is no friction and hence no wear & tear. No need to do periodic maintenance of changing mobile oil, coolant, brake oil, gear oil etc. Only battery charging is required and a periodic rotation of tires is necessary.
5. Cheaper in fuel:
The initial purchase cost of an electric vehicle is little higher than the gasoline powered vehicles. However, the after purchase maintenance and fuel cost is lesser than the conventional gasoline powered vehicles. There is no need to fuel electric vehicles as it runs on battery-powered electric motors.
The battery can be charged free of cost or with minimal charge on public charging stations.Even you can charge your car at your home itself.
Source: Image by Freepik
6. Buyers’ Incentives:
There are government incentives and tax rebate available on the purchase of the electric vehicles. To promote the electric vehicles, make a clean and green environment the consumers are motivated with many incentives to go for the pollution free transport facilities.
There are number of financial measures designed to incentivize consumers for purchasing the electric vehicles by the European Union.
7. Tax Cuts:
To encourage the electric vehicles sales, government has implemented a plan to increase the tax burden on conventional gasoline powered vehicles with greater emission and give relaxation in tax to those vehicles like electric and hybrid vehicles with lower emissions.
Norway is the best example of the highest attention of electric vehicle sales in the world. Here the new car buyers save 25% on an electric vehicle purchase since from starting as because of exemption in VAT.
In Germany, also the electric vehicles are free from vehicle tax for up to 10years.
The United States also give tax relaxation for purchasing electric vehicles. Even, the national federal taxes based on fuel usage, including the gas tax and car registration costs are exempted.
Source: Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
8. Less Depreciation Value:
It is important to think about the depreciation value and the rate of depreciation while purchasing your vehicle. However, it depends on many variables including kind, model, age and condition of the vehicles.
As per the scientific studies, the value of electric vehicle is more stable than that of the conventional gasoline vehicles. An analysis by Autolist shows that the Tesla model S has more retention value than its gas powered competitors like Audi A8. Mercedes S-class and BMW 7 Series.
9. Zero Emission:
Electric vehicles are better for planet. The electric vehicles have no emission, as there is no tail pipe.
In EVs, there is no combustion as in internal combustion engine vehicles. A gasoline-powered vehicle emits various harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, ozone and particulate matters. These pollutants affects badly to human health and the climate.
However, the electricity used to power the electric vehicles comes from the coal power stations, it is still the electric vehicles emit less global warming pollution than the conventional gasoline vehicles.
Again, for no impact on world’s carbon footprint, the solar powered electric vehicles are good for zero emission. Because there is no pollution or waste involved in the process of powering your vehicle, this is the most environmentally responsible way to drive a car.
10. Unlimited Access to City Centers:
Many polluting vehicles are restricted in city centers of major European cities. However, the electric cars have unlimited access to city centers and low emission zones.
Many cities like Paris, Barcelona, Madrid and London have their own vehicle entry regulations. And these cities have low-emission zones to reduce the air pollution by barring certain types of vehicles from entering specific areas at all times or on specific days of the week.
In Paris, for example, you can only drive your car into the city center if it is electric or has been adapted for disabled people.
In London, there are different rules depending on how old your car is; newer cars can enter the center without issue, but older vehicles may be required to pay a fee.
Source: Image by Freepik
11. Conclusion:
Now it is very important than ever to take an action to protect the environment. There are various ways to protect and make your environment clean and green and pollution free. It is our responsibility to give a better atmosphere and safe life for our coming generation.
One of the various ways is to switch for alternative fuel vehicles and the electric cars are the best option. The electric cars does not demand to sacrifices your comfort or safety. Nowadays the electric vehicles are widely demanded and opted by the drivers who are looking for the new technologies and even don’t think to pay little extra for getting high technology cars with all comforts and environmental friendly.
The whole world is changing rapidly and opting the new generation technology in every fields and we too need to change with the upcoming generation and the technologies. There are enormous benefits of opting the new generation electric cars. It is not only beneficial for a person or for his/ her family but for the whole planet.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, if you think to do something for the climate change and want to make a bright and clean future for our next generation; you should go for the alternative fuels and the electric cars.
Now you too can buy electric vehicles. It’s now myth that the electric cars are only for the very rich people. Think once again.
In February,2023, the average U.S non-luxury cars including both gas and electric were retailed for about $44,700. Even though there are at least 10 electric cars that cost less than that price and even three electric cars are under $30,000.
The Federal, state and local rebates and incentives can also help to reduce thousands of dollars in electric vehicles buying price.
Even the leasing of an electric vehicle can make you eligible for a greater federal tax rebate than buying that EV.
Here are the 10 cheapest electric vehicles to buy in your budget:
Chevrolet Bolt:
Price: $27495
Federal Tax Benefit: $7500 Fedral Tax Credit
Estimated Rang: 259 Miles
Fun to Drive with great range.
2. Chevrolet Bolt EUV:
Price: $28795
Seating Capacity:For Five
Federal Tax Benefit: $7500 fedral Tax Credit
Estimated Rang: 247 Miles
Larger version of GM’s original Chevy Bolt.
3. Nissan Leaf S:
Price: $29135
Estimated Rang: 149 Miles
Leaf S is a great option for those who drives shorter distances and charge primarily at home.
4. Mini Electric Hard Top:
Price: $31895
Estimated Rang: 114 Miles
A Zippy import, the Mini Electric gets agile handling and quick acceleration.
5. Hyundai Kona Electric:
Price: $34885
Estimated Rang: 258 Miles
One of the best electric vehicle under $50,000
6. Nissan Leaf SV Plus:
Price: $37135
Estimated Rang: 212 Miles
Second generation Leaf gets high marks for safety and its practicality from the consumers.
7. Volkswagen ID.4 Standard:
Price: $40290
Estimated Rang: 209 Miles
Offers Ample cargo space and three years of electrify charging at America’s fast charging Network.
8. Kia Niro EV Wind:
Price: $40875
Estimated Rang: 253 Miles
Comes with driver assistance and wireless smartphone charger.
9. Hyundai Ioniq 5:
Price: $44235
Estimated Rang: 220 Miles
Compelling choice for anyone moving first swing towards Electric vehicles.
10. Nissan Ariya:
Price: $44525
Estimated Rang: 216 Miles
Nissan Ariya is a Crossover SUV, comes with important safety features like blind spot monitoring and automatic braking.
Conclusion:
There are various automakers and new upcoming startups in the field of electric and hybrid vehicles manufacturing are coming to the market and new inventions are creating more opportunities for the players. This definitely creates more possibilities to reduce the manufacturing cost and then the selling price.
Even the tax incentives and government rebates are the key point of discussion for the price relaxation in all electric vehicles.
So the average and common people should rethink before purchasing their new car and can think of any budget Electric Vehicles.
The market share of new electric cars surpassed 7% for the first half of the year 2023 , moving past a critical tipping point for mass acceptance. In the last few months, all-time sales capped 3 million.
Electric Vehicles Market Growth Analysis:
However, perhaps the most remarkable of all is the accomplishment of a record-hot pace of almost one (01) million new Electric Vehicles per year. According to an analysis of Bloomberg Green, in the last 12 months through June, Americans bought 977,445 cars that run solely on electricity.
In the U.S., it took approx. 10 years to sell its first million fully electric vehicles, two years to reach the second million, and just over a year to reach the third. By the time the up-to-date quarter’s records are checked up over the next month and is supposed that the country should be well on its way to a fourth million EVs.
A 12-month rolling sales of electric vehicles is another way to look at the yearly pace of EV purchases, which reveals unexpected progress. For this attitude, each new calendar quarter displays the year of EV purchases leading up to that point. It smooths out periodic variations that can disguise longer-term trends.
During the period during the start of the pandemic, the only time 12-month Electric vehicle sales declined was during a brief stretch beginning in the third quarter of 2019. That is when Tesla for the time being exported a substantial share of its American-made Model 3 inventory to kick off overseas sales.
The story of U.S. electric vehicle acceptance has so far been the tale of two leading actors: the state of California and Tesla Inc. The crucial EV tipping point of 5% of new car sales among the first top 10 worldwide auto market was reached only by California. Tesla recently removed Toyota as the top-selling vehicle brand, electric or otherwise, in the state
Conclusion:
Markets need to branch out for Electric Vehicles to become truly mainstream across the U.S., and for the Detroit auto industry to continue the changeover. Geographically, this happens with California losing some of its U.S. EV shares to states like Texas, Florida, Washington, and New Jersey. Tesla, however, is still very much in the driver’s seat, responsible for 61% of EVs ever sold in the US.
The analyst Corey Cantor of Bloomberg looked at a similar 01 million electric vehicles milestone that included plug-in hybrids. As per the result of the analysis, if you include all cars that come with a plug, he found, that Americans are already buying a million EVs every nine months.
India is the fastest-growing and one of the world’s largest auto marketplaces and has a big population with millions of electric vehicle owners. There is a significant impact of environmental consciousness for the transition from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric vehicles throughout the globe and India is leading in the adoption of green fuel energy sources and electrical vehicles.
As per the IEA report, more than 90% of India’s 2.3 million electric vehicles are cheaper and are two & three-wheelers, motorbikes, and E-Rickshaws.
Analysts say that because of last decay’s enormous rise in fuel and consumers’ awareness of cost benefits, the government has announced a $1.3 billion federal plan to encourage electric vehicle manufacturing and to provide rebates for customers.
Have a look at how the government incentives and cost-conscious customers have given a boost to an electric vehicle boom in India:
1. Government Incentives for Electric Vehicles:
Policy Framework:
In the year 2015, the government of India has launched FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (& Hybrid) Vehicles scheme. This scheme is to provide incentives for the purchase and usage of electric and hybrid vehicles.
Tax Incentives:
The Indian government has reduced the GST (Goods & services Tax) on electric vehicles as lowered as 5% only whereas the same on gasoline-powered vehicle is 28%.
Charging Infrastructure:
The Indian government is very much focused on creating a robust infrastructure of Electric Vehicles charging systems. The plan is to set up electric vehicles charging stations on highways and within the cities at a regular interval.
State Incentives:
All the states of India have their own policies of electric vehicle and they are offering some additional incentives, subsidies, and extra waivers to both the manufacturers and the consumers. For manufacturers, the state government provides land and electricity at subsidized rates, and for consumers, they may provide rebates in road taxes and rebates in the registration fee of the electric vehicles.
Promotion of Local Manufacturing:
The government has introduced the ‘Make in India’ initiative to support and boost local manufacturing. The goal is to make India a global hub for electric vehicle manufacturing in view of creating jobs for local people and also to reduce production costs.
2. Cost- Conscious Customers:
Lower Total Cost of Ownership:
However, the initial cost of purchasing the electric vehicles are comparatively high, but the total cost of ownership i.e. the cost of fuel, maintenance and other costing for the lifetime of the vehicles are comparatively lower in electric vehicles.
Economies of Scale:
The demand of electric vehicles are increasing day by day and subsequently it results the more production of the electric vehicles. This brings down the low cost of the manufacturing and resulting the lower market price of the electric vehicles.
Increase in More affordable Models:
During the initial stages of manufacturing the electric vehicles, the most available models were only in the premium segments. However, with the increase in demand of the electric vehicles and because of local manufacturing, more affordable models are coming in the market and it is more convenient to select and opt for the customers.
Environmental Awareness:
Swatch Bharat and Clean & Green Movement for pollution-free atmosphere is the major concern of everywhere. The increase in awareness among the consumers about the environment leads to electric vehicles.
Enormous Rise in fuel cost:
The consistent rise in fuel cost i.e. increasing cost of petrol and diesel in the major reason to shift towards alternative fuel and the electric vehicles.
Conclusion:
The collaboration of government policies along with the essential financial and environmental benefits of electric vehicles has created a rapid adoption of electric vehicles in India and even throughout the globe.
If the present trends continues and innovations & the technologies advances then India will definitely see a major transformation in the transportation sector and the automobile market.
The price range of electric vehicles depends on the battery size of the vehicle, the ability of the motors to power the vehicle and increase the range, the charging capability of the vehicle, and other additional features like infotainment or interior and exterior features.
The major factors that can affect the overall costs of owing an Electric Vehicles are:
1. Cost of Electric Vehicles Compared to Gas-Powered Vehicles.
Electric vehicles generally come with a higher price tag than gas-powered vehicles as per your choice of the make and model you want to drive.
However, few small and compact electric vehicles with acceptable range for city driving or small travels usually retail for a lower label price than many gas-powered SUVs or mid-size sedans.
Electric vehicles require less maintenance and no cost of periodic oil changes after every three to five thousand miles as required for gasoline-powered vehicles. However, the electric parts are more expensive to repair or replace in case of wear and tear and accidental damages, though the life of lithium-ion batteries is generally around 10 years. The wheel tires of an electric vehicle are of the same life as those of gas-powered vehicles.
Because of a unique structure and higher cost of repairs of an electric vehicle, the insurance premium cost is greater as compared to the gasoline- powered vehicles.
2.Costs of Powering an Electric Vehicles:
What makes Electric Vehicles so appealing to drivers beyond the eco-accommodating emanations is the capacity to control a vehicle exclusively on electric battery power. Electric vehicles run on the energy produced by an electric engine, which is estimated in kilowatts. Higher kilowatt yields equivalent to more ability to speed up and support the EV.
Like the idea of a gas-powered motor, the more power you feed your vehicle, the more speed and taking care of you get from the vehicle. Rather than searching for an all-the-more impressive motor filled by gas, EVs convey power in light of the vehicle’s battery limit in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which lets you know how much energy a vehicle stores in the battery pack.
3. Basic Charging Costs:
The expense of charging your EV in light of kilowatt-hours will likewise affect the general cost of an electric vehicle. The most costly charge comes from public quick charging stations, however assuming that you plan out your charging timetable to routinely re-energize at your home, you’ll bring about insignificant energy costs.
You can find out about the genuine expense of running an EV in light of the amount it expenses to re-energize the battery. For instance, utilizing a normal 120-volt power source (a similar one you’d use to connect your toaster oven) takes a normal of 40-50 hours to completely charge an electric battery at the most minimal power level. With the typical expense of power at 15 pennies for every kWh, you’re still just paying $7.50 max to charge your vehicle.
Most EVs offer a level 2 charging connector you can equip for your home. These regularly run 240 volts, diverting seriously charging capacity to the battery. Level 2 charges top off your battery power in a normal of 4-10 hours, bringing your costs down to $1.50 or less. Kilowatt-hour rates differ broadly by state, yet utilizing the public typically assists you with computing a good guess of how driving an EV puts on your electric tab.
4. Costs for Fast Charges:
As an EV driver, you are probably spending significantly less to control up as opposed to filling your vehicle. Yet, maneuvering into a quick charging station builds your energy costs.
That is because the advantageous quick charge costs more each kilowatt-hour, frequently twofold or more than the normal cost you would pay at home. For instance, EVgo, from one side of the country to the other, quick charging station, charges non-individuals 34 pennies for each kWh or 29 pennies for fundamental-level individuals in addition to expenses.
To try not to pay something else for a battery re-energize, plan to control up for the time being, saving quick charges for times when it is very important, like startling traffic or during a long excursion.
5. Conclusion:
The electric vehicles are the future of the road conveyance and transportation system. These alternative fuel vehicles are the demand of next generation for a sustainable growth and clean & green environment. Thus people should be come forward to think and adopt the new era vehicles and the electric vehicles are the best option in this way.
The electric vehicles are a little costlier as compared to the gas-powered vehicles but with the innovations and the upcoming developments, the EVs will be more compatible and cheaper with many government incentives and rebates, which are already offered in many states and countries.
