Electric vehicle registrations see a big jump in Karnataka – EQ Mag
BENGALURU: The state has seen a nearly 1,500% increase in e-vehicle registrations in three years, as per statistics from the ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH). While 6,150 EVs were registered in 2019, the number hit 95,856 in 2022.
Last year, monthly registrations of EVs crossed 10,000 in October (10,787) and November (10,960). There are 2.9 crore vehicles in the state, of which 1.5 lakh are EVs, including 1.3 lakh two-wheelers and 9,831 cars.
The colossal rise in the EV population is a good sign. But only two-wheelers and cars running on batteries won’t help reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Road transport corporations, including BMTC and KSRTC, should replace fuel-guzzling buses with electric ones to cut operational costs and minimise impact on the environment. The government must look into providing assistance to autorickshaw drivers keen on making the switch. However, the transition will be sustainable only when the number of charging stations is increased. Scientific disposal of batteries is another challenge that needs to be addressed by the authorities.
Experts say soaring fuel prices, lower maintenance cost, increased awareness and availability of more models from different manufacturers are behind the spike in e-vehicle registrations.
Pawan Mulukutla, director (energy technology and green mobility) at World Resources Institute India, an NGO, said: “Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, is always an early adopter of new technology. In fact, Bengaluru is a startup hub and also home to several e-mobility firms. People are more aware and environmentally conscious. Also, battery-run two-wheelers are now available at a lower cost than petrol-run ones. Many RWAs/highrises are also setting up charging infrastructure.”
According to Mulukutla, the government should now focus on encouraging auto drivers to convert their vehicles into electric vehicles ones.
In March 2016, the state government exempted all EVs from paying road tax. But many other states/UTs offer financial…Read More…
Source: PTI
