Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India recently engaged in a conversation with Industry Outlook and shared his views on the current state of electric mobility in India, highlighting recent trends, government initiatives, and emerging technologies shaping the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Vikram is a corporate executive with over three decades of experience in corporate strategy, business expansion, and SBU management. He has previously held key roles at BMW Group Australia and NZ, Harley-Davidson India, and Honda Cars India Ltd, specializing in profit center management and strategic optimization.
Climate neutrality has become a central concern, uniting people to drive meaningful change. Individuals are increasingly focused on reducing their carbon footprint, and when exceptional product features combine with eco-friendly solutions, the appeal grows stronger. Young achievers, in particular, are driving the demand for electric luxury cars in India by prioritizing sustainable choices.
The demand for premium electric vehicles in India is set to rise, supported by regulatory policies that encourage adoption. Incentives like lower taxation and subsidies make luxury EVs more attractive. The development of reliable public charging infrastructure, bolstered by private investments, will further boost market growth. Urban consumers currently lead the demand, but emerging markets are gaining momentum. Cities like Chandigarh, Lucknow, and Kochi are increasingly contributing to EV sales.
Both the Indian automotive sector and the government are taking strategic measures to expand charging infrastructure. Government schemes provide incentives for the establishment of EV charging stations across the country. State governments have introduced their own EV policies, offering incentives for setting up charging infrastructure, including land allocation and tax benefits as well as guidelines for installation in residential and commercial buildings. Collaborations with private companies, power utilities, and energy providers are crucial in building a widespread network. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can be a viable model to accelerate the deployment.
For BMW Group India, the development of one of the largest fast-charging networks in 35 cities is vital to the leading position in the luxury e-mobility space. Serving customers’ charging requirements beyond home and office, DC fast charging is available at 51 BMW dealer locations with up to 50kW charging capacity. To encourage e-mobility, our charging network is open to all EV users regardless of brand or make.
All BMW and MINI EVs come with a complimentary home charger (22 kW AC Type 2) and installation. An end-to-end solution with site survey, commissioning, and maintenance is done at no additional cost. The company also extends support for additional charger setup at work or other locations.
Government initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme and the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) have significantly contributed to the growth of EV adoption in India. They provide financial incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, making them more affordable for consumers. This has directly boosted EV sales across the country.
Apart from cost incentives, FAME supported the establishment of EV charging stations, addressing one of the critical barriers to EV adoption. It promoted the electrification of public transport, including buses and three-wheelers, which has had a broader impact on reducing emissions and increasing EV visibility.
The NEMMP provides a comprehensive roadmap for the adoption of EVs in India, setting targets for penetration and establishing the framework for policy support. The plan encourages R&D in technologies, helping local manufacturers develop competitive solutions.
With the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, the government is providing additional incentives for domestic production of EV components, such as batteries and electric drivetrains, that will help reduce costs along the supply chain.
Increasing the number of fast chargers, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, would further support EV adoption. Encouraging the use of renewable energy sources in charging infrastructure will enhance the sustainability of EVs and reduce their overall environmental impact. Simplifying the approval process for setting up charging stations and offering clear guidelines for infrastructure development would encourage more private-sector participation. Most importantly, a stable, long-term, and clear policy and taxation framework is a must to ensure a continued increase in EV adoption.
Though electric mobility is a clear driving force for the future, it is important to follow a ‘Technology Open’ approach. There are no old or new technologies, only future-proof ones. Technology openness pays off. It’s crucial to continue to invest consciously in various technologies. Ultimately, this is the most intelligent and fastest way to effective climate protection.
At BMW Group, customers have the power of choice to go for a drivetrain of their choice whether petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric. Thanks to our flexibility, we can react quickly to changing requirements in the markets at any time and in any situation.
As an upcoming alternative for the future, hydrogen fuel cell drivetrains combine the best of both worlds: the advantages of an emission-free e-drive with the fast-refueling people are used to. That’s why hydrogen as an additional alternative drive technology could make a lot of sense in the mid to long term. But in the short term, it will not replace EVs completely.
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is currently on a world tour, undergoing real-life testing. It is very well received, everywhere it goes. The pilot fleet is raising awareness of hydrogen's role in the energy transition – both for mobility and across industries.
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology will play a pivotal role in the integration of smart grids and renewable energy. As EV adoption increases, V2G will enhance grid stability by allowing vehicles to store and return excess renewable energy, balancing supply and demand. V2G aligns with the commitment to sustainability, offering customers a premium driving experience while enabling active participation in the energy transition. In India, V2G can accelerate smart grid development, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and support the country’s renewable energy goals, shaping a more sustainable future.
The Indian luxury electric market is still at a nascent stage but has immense potential with a population of over a billion. The customer base has evolved tremendously in the last few years. There is immense opportunity and headroom to grow and we are confident that the story of growth in this decade will be transformational. With continued support from the government, widespread availability of electric products across segments, and a strong charging infrastructure, electric mobility adoption will increase significantly.
