Introduction
India is steering towards a greener and more sustainable future in transportation, with advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), flex-fuel technologies, and alternative fuels like ethanol and methanol. Speaking at the Green Bharat Summit in New Delhi on December 13, Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, outlined the government’s initiatives to address challenges such as EV range anxiety and the push for alternative fuels.
EV Range Anxiety: A Problem of the Past
Nitin Gadkari assured that concerns about EVs running out of charge mid-journey, known as “range anxiety,” are no longer valid. Modern EVs now offer a range of 250-300 km on a single charge. To further support EV adoption, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has established 770 roadside amenities, including EV charging stations, ensuring that charging infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
Flex-Fuel Vehicles: A Promising Future
The minister emphasized the growth of flexible fuel vehicles in India. These vehicles, capable of running on gasoline blended with ethanol or methanol, are poised to transform the automotive industry. Several automakers are already preparing to launch flex-fuel vehicles, supported by government policies promoting alternative energy sources.
Methanol as a Game-Changer
Gadkari highlighted methanol as a low-cost, low-carbon fuel alternative. Produced from high-ash coal, agricultural residue, and CO2, methanol costs just a quarter of diesel. With government plans to introduce 15% methanol-blended diesel, this fuel is expected to revolutionize the trucking industry by significantly reducing costs and emissions. Methanol trucks are already gaining traction in India, and the policy framework is being developed to scale up adoption.
Focus on Green Hydrogen and EV Buses
Green hydrogen was also identified as a key solution to curb pollution in the transport sector. The government has ambitious plans to deploy 1.5 lakh EV buses, though manufacturing capacity currently stands at 50,000 buses per year.
India’s Path to Green Transportation Leadership
India’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond vehicles. Gadkari announced plans for road development worth ₹75 lakh crore, which will position the country as a global leader in green transportation infrastructure. Moreover, the government is working towards making India the top manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, further supporting the EV ecosystem.
Conclusion
With robust policies and infrastructure investments, India is making significant strides in adopting green fuels and technologies. From EVs to flex-fuel vehicles and methanol-powered trucks, the country is moving closer to its vision of sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation. As Gadkari puts it, India is well on its way to becoming a leader in green transportation and battery manufacturing.
