Pilot run of electric goods vehicle launched in Kolkata

KOLKATA: A pilot run of an electric medium goods vehicle (e-truck) was launched in Kolkata to assess its commercial viability and environmental impact. Notably, diesel-run goods vehicles contribute 45% of transport sector emissions in the city while constituting only 2% of the on-road vehicle stock.
The e-truck was officially flagged off by S Suresh Kumar, Bengal’s former power secretary and current chairman of Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC).

“The e-truck pilot demonstration marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a sustainable and low-carbon future. By showcasing the potential of electric medium and heavy goods vehicles, we are taking a crucial step towards reducing emissions and paving the way for cleaner, more efficient road freight in India,” said Kumar, an architect of EV policy of Bengal.
SwitchON Foundation and KPMG in India, in collaboration with Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation and Hulladek Recycling, are conducting a techno-feasibility study of the medium e-goods vehicle as part of efforts to decarbonize freight transport. Despite the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) in the personal and small passenger and goods vehicle sectors, there has been limited focus on EVs for medium and heavy goods vehicles (MHGVs).
“The techno-feasibility study may dispel many myths about charging infrastructure, commercial feasibility, and environmental impact. The project aims to drive demand and investment in the segment by providing critical real-world data and evidence,” said Vinay Jaju of SwitchON Foundation.
Saurabh Gupta, partner, power and utilities at KPMG in India, highlighted that the study will also examine the current charging infrastructure, return on investment duration, and other issues such as carbon credits. “The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the economic and environmental benefits of e-trucks,” Gupta said.
Nandan Mall of Hulladek Recycling expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are happy to partner on this medium electric goods vehicle pilot project, which will provide valuable real-world insights and data on the techno-commercial feasibility of electric vehicles for heavy goods transportation.”

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Source: NITI Aayog