The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has experienced a remarkable surge in Kerala in the last two years. The number of electric vehicles in Kerala has increased from a mere count of 472 electric vehicles in 2019 to a substantial 39,868 electric vehicles as of 2023.
This spike in EV sales illustrates Kerala’s steady and notable advancement in embracing electric mobility. According to the most recent government data, among the total vehicle count of 1.64 crore in Kerala, approximately 1.48 percent of vehicles operate using non-conventional energy sources.
The data reveals a substantial escalation in the count of registered electric vehicles in recent years. The figures stand as follows: 472 in 2019, 1,389 in 2020, 8,820 in 2021, a significant jump to 39,668 in 2022, and the ongoing count of 39,868 in 2023. Consequently, the cumulative count of registered electric vehicles in the state has now reached 93,179.
Officials have indicated that the government has been actively formulating diverse schemes aimed at promoting electric vehicles, aligning with its commitment to achieve a net-zero emission target by 2050, primarily by progressively curtailing greenhouse gas emissions.
A senior official from the Kerala Motor Vehicles Department commented on these initiatives, stating, “We have introduced various schemes across different departments. These encompass a subsidy of Rs 30,000 for the acquisition of electric autos and an additional Rs 15,000 subsidy for the conversion of diesel-powered autos into e-vehicles through the integration of batteries and motors.”
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has also taken proactive measures to ensure a robust network of charging stations, facilitating seamless travel for electric vehicles across the state. The establishment of over 1,500 charging stations represents a substantial stride in this direction. Furthermore, the adoption of charging via KSEB posts has been extensively implemented. The KSEB app offers comprehensive information about the precise location of charging stations, the availability of charging slots, and the array of payment options.
In conjunction with the KSEB’s efforts, the Agency for Non-conventional Energy and Rural Technology (Anert) is actively contributing to the growth of charging infrastructure by setting up charging stations. Anert has already inaugurated the state’s inaugural solar charging station in Kunnamkulam, with forthcoming plans to establish charging stations at pivotal locations, encompassing cafeterias, washing rooms, and restroom facilities.
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