Basavaraj Bommai, Karnataka’s Chief Minister, said that manufacturers should concentrate more on creating affordable electric vehicles for the general public. Bommai launched the EV Campaign 2022 and 152 EV charging stations during the event.
The Chief Minister said, “The battery and motor are the main parts of an eclectic vehicle. It is a matter of pride that they are being produced within the country under the ‘Atma Nirbhar’ mission. The cost of Electric Vehicles should be affordable for the common man. Then only its usage could see an increase. The manufacturers should focus more on this aspect.”
He stated that the new EV policy by the state government has made Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM), the sole agency responsible for setting up EV charging stations in public areas.
He said that battery swapping is an important aspect of electric vehicles, and it would be given more prominence in the coming days.
Bommai highlighted the importance of renewable energies, pointing out that fossil fuels are decreasing and are causing harm to the environment.
“Electric vehicles play an important role in this regard. Right now electric two-wheelers are hitting the roads in large numbers and soon electric cars, buses and even multi-axle trucks would come to the market. More research is needed in alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels soon,” he said.
Bommai stated that the state government will add more electric buses to Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC).
Affordable is a relative term. The Total Cost of Ownership TCO is to be reckoned. It will weigh in favour of EV. The swap stations will further reduce the initial cost of the vehicle , offering Battery As A Service opportunity for a new breed of E – Prenures . Let the Govt assist them in promoting these concepts for general use reducing pollution and dependence on imported oil.