Opinion: MaaS-tering corporate mobility

In modern business, efficiency is the driving force behind productivity. In the pursuit of this elusive efficiency, a new player has entered the corporate arena: the electrification of corporate mobility fleets. 

Imagine a scenario where companies can reduce emissions, cut costs, and enhance their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals – all while continuing to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. It's like hitting two birds with one stone, and this ingenious solution comes in the form of corporate mobility, specifically, electric corporate mobility.

The landscape of corporate e-mobility is rapidly evolving, and India is right at the heart of this transformation. Electric Mobility as-a-service (EMaaS) offers companies a chance to revolutionise the way their employees commute. As the world adjusts to a post-pandemic reality and the concept of 'work from office' takes centre stage once again, companies are collaborating with EMaaS providers to create a tangible impact on tailpipe emissions. This collaboration doesn't just tick the box of environmental responsibility; it's a strategic move to meet ESG goals and make a meaningful contribution to a greener, less trafficked world.

The key lies in embracing electric, shared mobility. Picture a fleet of electric vehicles silently weaving through the urban landscape, leaving behind cleaner air and reduced carbon footprints. It's not just about adopting the latest trend; it's a shift that can drastically affect a company's bottomline. By choosing electric vehicles for their fleets, companies are not only reducing operational costs but also paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Developments in India around Electric Mobility

India, known for its rapid economic growth, is at a crossroads. With approximately 300 million petrol and diesel vehicles currently on the roads and a projected annual addition of 30 million more, the need for change is palpable. The shared mobility market is poised to grow at an impressive CAGR of 56.8 percent by 2025. This growth, when aligned with the electrification of fleets, can lead to a significant transformation in the way we commute and conduct business.

Reducing Traffic Woes and Boosting Productivity

As bustling cities grapple with traffic congestion, the problem goes beyond mere inconvenience. Take, for instance, the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway in the National Capital Region or the Outer Ring Road in Bengaluru. These once-smooth roads have turned into bottlenecks of frustration, affecting not just individuals but also the economy at large. Bengaluru's staggering loss of nearly Rs 20,000 crore annually due to traffic woes is a glaring example of the toll that congestion takes on business.

Tech parks, once symbols of progress, have become breeding grounds for traffic nightmares, contributing to the city's gridlock chaos. The expansion of the IT sector has led to an explosive growth in population and vehicle numbers, further exacerbating the problem.

A Future Beyond Gridlock

In the quest for corporate mobility, the benefits are abundant and irrefutable. It's not just about reducing emissions and putting fewer cars on the road; it's about steering businesses towards intentional ESG goals. By lessening the time employees spend in traffic, companies can improve productivity, leading to a more efficient work environment. The fusion of corporate mobility and electric vehicles has the power to reshape the business landscape, allowing companies to contribute positively to the environment while safeguarding their interests.

The road ahead is clear – it's a journey towards sustainability, efficiency, and a greener world. As corporations embark on this voyage, they are not just 'mastering' corporate mobility; they are shaping a future where business and planet thrive together, with a focus on balance.

Rahul Pravindra is the Founder of O2 Mobility. Rahul Pravindra, Founder, O2 Mobility. Views expressed are those of the author.