The Indian government is planning to phase out diesel & petrol cars by 2034
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced a few days back that the Indian government aims to eliminate diesel and petrol vehicles within the next ten years. Speaking at a public rally in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Gadkari highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles.
“I want to eliminate diesel and petrol vehicles from this country within 10 years. Nowadays, electric scooters, cars and buses have come. While you spend Rs. 100/- on diesel, they consume electricity worth Rs. 4/-,” Gadkari stated.
India has seen a significant rise in the adoption of electric vehicles. Data from the Vahan portal, which tracks vehicle statistics in the country, indicates a steady increase in EV sales from April 2023 to April 2024.
He has previously emphasised his commitment to removing over 36 crore petrol and diesel vehicles from Indian roads. Gadkari proposed reducing the GST on hybrid vehicles to 5 percent and on flex engines to 12 percent, signalling a push towards more eco-friendly transportation options.
The minister has long been an advocate for alternative fuels, including biofuels. He expressed confidence that the automotive industry is moving towards embracing alternative and biofuels, citing initiatives by major companies such as Bajaj Auto, TVS and Hero MotoCorp to manufacture vehicles equipped with flex engines.
Gadkari’s vision extends beyond just automobiles, as he mentioned advancements in other sectors such as hydrogen-powered cars and trucks, as well as bio-CNG factories across the country.
What are your thoughts on the future of automobile industry in India? Do you think electric is the future or petrol and diesel vehicles are here to stay for a long while in the country? Let us know in the comments section below.
