India is on the brink of a transportation revolution that could reshape its cities, economy, and environment. According to a landmark study by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), a nationwide switch from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) in 44 major Indian cities could save the country a staggering $106.6 billion (₹9.07 lakh crore) in oil imports by 2035.
But the benefits of the India EV switch go far beyond just financial savings—this transition could dramatically reduce air pollution, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.
Table of Contents
Why the India EV Switch Matters
India’s urban centers are grappling with severe air pollution, much of it caused by outdated, fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The TERI report highlights that by replacing these old vehicles with EVs, India could avoid importing over 51 billion litres of petrol and diesel.
This move would not only save money but also reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil, making the economy more resilient to global price shocks.
But the India EV switch is not just about economics. The environmental impact is equally profound. By 2035, India could cut 11.5 tonnes of harmful PM2.5 emissions every single day in its largest cities.
This would translate to a reduction of 61 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, making a substantial contribution to the fight against climate change and improving public health for millions.
Key Benefits of the India EV Switch
| Benefit | Impact by 2035 |
|---|---|
| Oil Import Savings | $106.6 billion (₹9.07 lakh crore) |
| Petrol & Diesel Saved | 51+ billion litres |
| PM2.5 Emissions Reduced | 11.5 tonnes per day |
| Greenhouse Gas Reduction | 61 million tonnes CO₂e |
| New Jobs Created | 370,000+ in renewables |
| Public Charging Stations Needed | 45,000 |
| Vehicle Scrapping Facilities | 130 |
The Pollution Problem: Why Old Vehicles Must Go
Older vehicles, especially diesel buses, are the biggest contributors to urban air pollution. The TERI study warns that the number of such vehicles could rise from 4.9 million in 2024 to 7.5 million by 2030 if no action is taken. These vehicles emit far more pollutants than newer models, worsening air quality and public health.
During winter, the transport sector’s contribution to air pollution in Indian cities can reach up to 24% of PM10 and 37% of PM2.5 levels. Implementing age restrictions on buses and phasing out the oldest vehicles could cut PM2.5 levels by 50% and nitrogen oxide emissions by 80% by 2030, according to the study.
The Roadmap: How India Can Achieve the EV Switch
TERI recommends a phased approach to remove about 11.4 million old vehicles between 2030 and 2035. These should be replaced with electric vehicles or a mix of EVs and CNG vehicles. To support this transition, India will need to build robust EV infrastructure, including 45,000 public charging stations and 130 vehicle scrapping facilities in the 44 largest cities.
If half of the old vehicles are converted to CNG instead of EVs, the country would need 2,655 new CNG stations, but job creation would drop to around 45,000. The study makes it clear: a full commitment to the India EV switch will yield the greatest benefits.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
The India EV switch is not just about cleaner air and energy savings. It’s also a massive opportunity for job creation. The report estimates that more than 370,000 new jobs could be created in the renewable energy sector alone, from manufacturing to infrastructure development.
This transition will require skilled workers for EV manufacturing, battery production, charging infrastructure, and vehicle scrapping, providing a much-needed boost to the job market.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
While the benefits are clear, the India EV switch faces several challenges. Building a nationwide charging infrastructure, ensuring reliable electricity supply, and making EVs affordable for the average consumer are all significant hurdles. Policy support, incentives for EV buyers, and public-private partnerships will be crucial to overcoming these obstacles.
