Media Dossier
Accelerating Clean Transport: Kolkata Launches Eastern India's First-of-its-kind Electric Truck Pilot to Revolutionize the Road Freight Sector
26th June 2024 Kolkata, West Bengal
Event Details
In a significant step towards decarbonizing India's road freight sector, SwitchON Foundation and KPMG in India, successfully conducted the flag-off event for the pioneering e-truck pilot demonstration in Kolkata. The event aimed to address the pressing need for transitioning from emission-intensive ICE vehicles to zero-emission alternatives, particularly focusing on medium and heavy goods vehicles (MHGVs).
The event was organized against the backdrop of India's ambitious goal of becoming a USD 30 trillion economy by 2047. The road freight sector, crucial to this growth, currently contributes to ~12% of India's energy-related CO2 emissions. Within this sector, MHGVs have a disproportionate impact, accounting for ~45% of transport sector emissions despite being only ~2% of the on-road vehicle stock. Recognizing the critical imperative to decarbonize this segment, the pilot aims to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of e-MHGVs in India.
The event featured a roundtable discussion where leading experts from government, industry, and academia deliberated on accelerating the deployment of electric trucks. The discussions covered policies, programs, and solutions needed to promote the adoption of e-trucks as well as the deployment of charging infrastructure along key economic corridors. Perspectives from freight operators, corporates, and other stakeholders were shared, providing a comprehensive understanding of the interventions required to transition the road freight sector towards sustainability.
By demonstrating the use of e-MHGVs in 'first-success applications' and offering critical real-world data and evidence, the project aims to drive demand and investment in this segment. By addressing the current uncertainty around e-MHGVs, the pilot aspires to catalyze momentum for their adoption, significantly reducing emissions and India's reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Edition : The Times of India
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ONLINE COVERAGE
The Times of India
Ei Samay
https://epaper.timesgroup.com/eisamay/article-share?article=29_06_2024_004_015_esamk_EiSamay
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