India’s air quality is deteriorating, and the country is shifting towards clean mobility. While electric vehicles (EVs) are a crucial part of this strategy, they alone cannot address the country’s diverse pollution and energy challenges. The government aims to have EVs make up 30% of vehicle sales by 2030, but the transition faces structural constraints, such as the reliance on coal-based power generation and limited charging infrastructure.
A broader approach that includes alternative fuels like ethanol, auto LPG, biodiesel, compressed biogas, and green hydrogen is essential. Ethanol, for instance, can reduce emissions by 15-20% and decrease reliance on crude imports. Biodiesel and compressed biogas also offer significant reductions in particulate and gaseous pollution. Auto LPG can cut particulate pollution by up to 80% and lower nitrogen oxide emissions, making it a near-term option to curb urban smog.
Green hydrogen, produced from renewable power, can support sectors that batteries struggle to serve, such as heavy freight and rail. India’s mobility needs are diverse, with 1.4 billion people, varied terrain, and uneven power availability. A practical roadmap includes electrification where feasible, biofuels for legacy and medium-duty vehicles, and hydrogen for long-haul transport.
To achieve this, key policy levers include expanded R&D support, incentives for retrofits and flex-fuel engines, accelerated rollout of alternative-fuel retail infrastructure, and clear long-term regulatory signals. A multi-fuel pathway could reduce oil imports by nearly one-fifth, enhance energy security, and generate significant rural employment in decentralized fuel production.
India’s clean mobility transition will not be a single-technology shift. It requires a balanced portfolio of EVs, biofuels, gaseous alternatives, and hydrogen, deployed where each performs best. This mixed approach can help India meaningfully reduce emissions, cut costs, and build a resilient, sustainable transport future. The Indian government and industry must work together to create a diversified transition strategy that addresses the country’s unique challenges and opportunities.
The benefits of a diversified transition strategy include reduced oil imports, enhanced energy security, and significant rural employment opportunities. Additionally, turning crop residue and organic waste into fuel can channel economic value back to farm communities. By adopting a multi-fuel approach, India can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, decrease emissions, and create a more sustainable transport sector. Ultimately, a balanced portfolio of clean mobility solutions is essential for India to achieve its climate goals and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.