10 lakh electric vehicles to be launched within 2022: CM
The target is to launch two lakh two-wheelers, 50,000 three-wheelers, 1000 goods carriers, 3000 buses and 100 ferry boats.
Kochi: With the aim to popularise the use of electric vehicles, E-mobility Conference and Expo 2019 (EVOLVE) started here as part of implementing the electric vehicle policy. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said while inaugurating the expo that 10 lakh electric vehicles will be launched by 2022.
The target is to launch two lakh two-wheelers, 50,000 three-wheelers, 1000 goods carriers, 3000 buses and 100 ferry boats. The draft of the electric vehicle policy was prepared by a committee headed by Madras IIT professor Ashok Jhunjhunwala.
When the National Green Tribunal banned diesel vehicles in six major cities, Kerala had discussed the possibilities of renewable energy sources. Though this verdict was stayed later, Kerala stood firm on the commitment towards the environment and started use of CNG and LNG fuels.
The chief minister said that there are huge chances of investment in electric vehicle sector. Kerala Automobiles Limited (KAL) which was formed for manufacturing electric vehicles target to make 8000 electric autorickshaws every year.
KAL is the first public sector undertaking in India that makes electric autorickshaws. They will also manufacture 3000 e-bus for KSRTC. The chief minister said it is the first e-bus manufacturing project that receives European investment.
The chief minister also virtually inaugurated the charging station started at Edappally Indian Oil Corporation pump and launched the Centre of Excellence at Thiruvananthapuram. The agreement for the electric vehicle production was handed over at the event and received the first application for the subsidy for electric vehicles.
MP Hibi Eden chaired the function. Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, Chief Secretary Tom Jose, Principal Secretary of transport department K. R. Jyothilal addressed the gathering.
Source: english.mathrubhumi
