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PM E-DRIVE ₹2,000 Crore Incentives for EV Charging Infrastructure

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PM E-DRIVE ₹2,000 Cr for EV Charging Boost

The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme, with an ambitious outlay of ₹10,900 crore, aims to propel the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and their infrastructure across India over the next two years. Notably, ₹2,000 crore from this fund has been earmarked specifically for establishing public EV charging stations, reflecting a significant increase compared to the previous FAME-2 scheme. The final guidelines for disbursing these incentives are expected to be released within a month, according to Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Heavy Industries, as reported by The Indian Express.

The initiative is designed to enhance local manufacturing capacity and attract global investment in the EV sector. Detailed guidelines for the scheme, initially notified in late March 2024, will soon be published to ensure effective implementation. Speaking at a Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) event, Qureshi emphasized the government’s commitment to facilitating investments by fostering a robust policy framework. The draft guidelines, which have undergone stakeholder consultations, are currently under review by state governments.

A key feature of the upcoming guidelines is the establishment of state-level committees, headed by the Chief Secretary, to aggregate demand for EV chargers. Each state will then submit a proposal to the Ministry of Heavy Industries for approval. The allocation of incentives will prioritize factors such as the number of EVs in a city, traffic volume, and the presence of state-level EV policies or additional incentives. Qureshi noted that proposals exceeding the ₹2,000 crore allocation might be received, necessitating a strategic approach to fund distribution.

The guidelines will also address upstream infrastructure requirements, particularly for financially constrained electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs). This focus aims to strengthen the power supply network, a critical element for expanding EV charging facilities.

Additionally, Qureshi revealed plans for releasing comprehensive rules under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) within three to four weeks. This complementary initiative seeks to reduce import duties on luxury electric car models priced above $35,000 from 100% to 15%, provided manufacturers commit at least $500 million to set up local production facilities. Such measures are expected to significantly bolster India’s EV ecosystem and attract leading global players to establish a presence in the country.

The PM E-DRIVE scheme’s enhanced funding for EV infrastructure is poised to accelerate India’s transition to sustainable transportation. By fostering local manufacturing, streamlining policy frameworks, and incentivizing infrastructure development, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy.

Popular EV models like Ola’s S1 Pro (2nd Generation) and S1 Air, as well as TVS’s iQube S, highlight the growing consumer interest in affordable and efficient electric vehicles. Prices for these models range from ₹75,000 to ₹1.56 lakh, making them accessible to a broader audience. As the government’s policies take shape, they are expected to further energize the EV market, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly future for Indian transportation.
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Prashant Sharma

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Tata Motors Targets 50% Market Share in India’s EV Sector

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Tata Motors Targets 50% Market Share in India’s EV Sector

In India’s fast-growing EV space, Tata Motors isn’t just participating — it’s dominating. And now, they’re setting their sights even higher. As per a recent report from ET Auto, Tata Motors is aiming to capture 50% of the country’s EV market in the coming years.

It’s a bold goal. With fresh competition entering from every direction — from global automakers to Indian startups — is Tata biting off more than it can chew, or are they just getting started?

Let’s break down where things stand — and what it’ll take to actually pull it off.

Tata Is Leading — But Not Alone Anymore

Let’s start with the numbers. Today, Tata Motors commands over 70% of India’s passenger EV segment. The Nexon EV is easily the best-selling electric car in the country, and the Tiago EV has made affordable electric mobility more accessible than ever before.

But what’s clear is that this lead won’t last forever unless Tata steps up. Companies like Hyundai, Mahindra, MG, and even BYD are ramping up their presence, and they’re coming in strong.

Tata’s 50% target feels more like a strategic defense plan than a boast.

What’s Driving Tata’s Ambition?

Tata’s not just selling electric vehicles — it’s building an ecosystem. And that’s what gives them a real shot at hitting this ambitious target.

⚡ New Models in the Pipeline

We’ve already seen early teasers of upcoming EVs like the Curvv, Harrier EV, and the futuristic-looking Avinya. Each one is aimed at a different audience — from young professionals to premium car buyers.

🔌 A Charging Network That Actually Exists

Thanks to Tata Power, they’ve already set up over 1,000 public chargers. For buyers in cities, this takes away a big chunk of “range anxiety” and helps make EVs feel like a regular, usable choice.

🔋 Made-in-India Batteries

One of the biggest roadblocks for EVs in India is high battery costs. Tata’s push for local battery manufacturing could solve this, reducing costs, improving availability, and giving them an edge over rivals who still rely on imports.

🛻 Commercial + Government Buyers

Besides private customers, Tata is focusing on commercial fleet buyers and government programs. That’s smart — fleet sales often move in bulk and can push volume quickly.

The Challenges Are Real

No matter how strong Tata’s strategy looks, there are serious hurdles ahead.

  • Charging networks still don’t reach Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities 
  • Battery components are globally volatile, and supply chain issues aren’t fully resolved 
  • Consumer education outside urban areas is still lacking 
  • And let’s be honest: many Indian buyers are still skeptical of electric mobility 

Tata Motors isn’t playing the short game. Their 50% EV market share target is a signal to investors, buyers, and rivals that they intend to stay on top, not just today, but in the next decade.

Will they make it? That depends on how fast India adapts and how well Tata can keep up with expectations.

But if any Indian brand is ready to bet on electric, it’s Tata.

 

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

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Chetak 3001: Bajaj’s Next-Gen Electric Scooter Could Be Your New Daily Ride

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Bajaj Chetak 3001 Launched

The Iconic Chetak Is Evolving—Here’s What We Know

Remember the Bajaj Chetak? If you grew up in India, chances are you’ve seen one buzzing around your neighborhood. Well, it’s back in the spotlight—this time with an electric twist. Bajaj is reportedly working on a new EV called the Chetak 3001, and if leaks are to be believed, it’s already being tested in Ladakh.

The company hasn’t officially confirmed anything yet, but the buzz is real. It looks like Bajaj is gearing up to give its popular electric scooter lineup a fresh new boost, without overcomplicating things.

Chetak 3001 Rumored Specs: Practical and Built for the City

If the whispers are true, the Chetak 3001 is going to come with a 3.1 kW motor and a 3 kWh battery—a setup that should make it ideal for urban commuting. The top speed? Around 62 km/h, which is more than enough for your daily rides to work, the market, or college.

Here’s a quick snapshot of what we might get:

  • 3.1 kW electric motor
  • 3 kWh lithium-ion battery
  • Top speed of ~62 km/h
  • Estimated range close to 100 km

In short, this scooter seems built for practicality, not racing. Perfect if you’re tired of petrol prices and just want something reliable and easy to charge.

What’s New Compared to the Current Chetak?

The current-gen Chetak is already known for being a no-nonsense, dependable electric scooter. But the 3001 version might be a little sharper, a little smarter.

Think of it as a mid-cycle update: maybe better pickup, slightly more battery efficiency, and possibly some smarter tech (without going overboard). It’s not trying to beat Ather or Ola in flashy features—it’s about keeping things simple and functional, but better.

If you’re someone who liked the original Chetak but wanted a little more “oomph,” the 3001 could be your sweet spot.

Features That Could Make It Stand Out

Now, Bajaj hasn’t said much, but based on spy shots and industry trends, the 3001 might include:

  • A refreshed digital dashboard 
  • Bluetooth connectivity 
  • Better weather protection 
  • A slight design tweak—maybe a new headlamp or side panel shape 
  • Possibly improved regenerative braking or ride modes 

Nothing wild—but enough to make a difference in your everyday experience.

Launch Timeline: When Will the Chetak 3001 Arrive?

There’s no official date, but many believe Bajaj could drop a teaser towards end of 2024, with a full launch by early 2025. Given how fast the EV space is moving, they’re probably not going to wait too long.

The EV Scooter You Can Count On?

If you’re not looking for high-end tech and just want a solid, stylish, and easy-to-maintain electric scooter, keep your eye on the Chetak 3001. It’s shaping up to be a commuter’s friend, especially for people who appreciate Bajaj’s legacy of durable rides.

This scooter might not make headlines for speed, but it might just become the EV you see everywhere on Indian roads.

 

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

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Royal Enfield Goes Electric: Flying Flea C6 & S6 Scrambler Spotted Testing in Ladakh

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Electric scrambler motorcycle parked in the Ladakh mountains under a clear sky.

Two Silent Machines Tackle Himalayan Trails: A New Chapter for Royal Enfield

For years, Royal Enfield has been the sound of the open road—literally. That familiar thump of a Classic or a Bullet has echoed across mountain passes and city streets for decades. But now, the brand is headed in a direction many of us didn’t see coming. And it’s quiet. Very quiet.

Photos have surfaced from Ladakh showing two all-electric Royal Enfield motorcycles in testing—the Flying Flea C6 and a Scrambler-style model named S6. No camouflage, no big press release. Just two futuristic-looking bikes riding through some of India’s most unforgiving terrain.

High-Altitude Testing Means One Thing: These Aren’t Just for the City

Ladakh isn’t where you take a bike for basic testing. Thin air, steep climbs, rocky trails—this is where a machine either performs or fails. So the fact that Royal Enfield chose this location says a lot. They’re building these EVs not just for office commutes or showroom appeal, but for real riders.

The Flying Flea C6 looks nimble and light, almost like a city bike with off-road potential. The S6 Scrambler, on the other hand, is chunkier, taller, and built for people who like their rides a little wild. Both bikes keep that trademark Enfield stance—upright riding posture, long forks, and wide handlebars. If you know the RE DNA, you’ll feel it here too.

What’s missing? The sound. That thump is gone. But in its place? Instant torque, zero emissions, and a different kind of cool.

What Do We Know So Far?

Not a lot has been confirmed officially, but here’s what’s being pieced together from what we’ve seen and heard:

  • Flying Flea C6 likely pays homage to the original WWII-era RE “Flying Flea”—a lightweight bike built to be dropped from planes. Its modern EV version looks agile and compact. 
  • The S6 Scrambler is bulkier, with longer suspension travel, high-mounted fenders, and tires that scream trail-ready. 
  • Both bikes are probably built on RE’s new ‘L platform’, which has been in the works for EV-specific builds. 
  • Industry insiders say the range could sit somewhere between 120 to 150 km, depending on the model and battery spec.

No launch date has been announced yet, but a debut in late 2025 or early 2026 seems likely.

Why This Isn’t Just Another EV Launch

Plenty of two-wheeler brands have launched electric scooters and motorcycles over the last few years, but this feels different. Royal Enfield has taken its time, and that might be a good thing.

They didn’t jump in with a commuter EV just to follow the trend. Instead, they’re building bikes that are meant to be ridden hard, explored with, and taken beyond city limits. The kind of bikes Enfield riders expect, just with batteries instead of tanks.

This could be the first proper “touring-capable” electric motorcycle from a mainstream Indian brand. And once it hits the market, it might force the rest of the industry to rethink what an electric bike should be.

Seeing a Royal Enfield test an electric prototype on Ladakh’s harsh terrain is a bit surreal—but also kind of perfect. It’s the brand’s way of saying: “We’re going electric, but we’re doing it our way.”

If the Flying Flea C6 and S6 Scrambler perform anywhere near as good as they look, we’re in for something special. These bikes could be the bridge between tradition and the future, giving loyal RE fans a reason to plug in without giving up the adventure.

Stay tuned—because the next big thump from Royal Enfield might be completely silent.

 

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

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