Driven by India’s focus on clean energy goals, electric vehicles (EVs) are one of the main mechanisms being promoted to achieve its net-zero emissions target. Like most new technologies, though adoption in the early years was slow, acceptance of EVs is gradually gaining momentum in the country.
The Role of LFP Batteries in Increasing Trust
One of the main reasons for this growing acceptance is the advancements in EV technology. Earlier, range anxiety was a speed barrier in the smooth sales of EVs. However, improved, safer and long-lasting LFP (lithium ferro phosphate) batteries with greater thermal stability are transforming India’s electric mobility landscape. Moreover, power electronics, connected diagnostics and telematics have ensured EVs are more dependable for daily use.
As a result, top EV manufacturers and domestic battery suppliers are deploying LFP battery technology for EVs at the entry level and mid-range. This is primarily because these batteries offer a fine blend of cost, durability and safety that suits the practical needs of the domestic market. Given the country’s extreme temperatures and clogged city roads, LFP batteries are well-suited for 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers as well as LCVs (light commercial vehicles). Consequently, customer trust in EVs is rising.
By 2030, industry estimates indicate yearly EV sales could touch 10 million units. As auto manufacturers and policymakers strive to boost the popularity of EVs, a key element will lie in selecting the right batteries. This is because batteries can impact the overall ownership cost, the range of vehicles, their safety and the sustainability lifecycle.
Varied Measures to Address Range Anxiety and Boost Trust
But batteries do not address the whole story connected to range anxiety. When it comes to boosting the trust and confidence of EV users, what is equally important is the charging infrastructure. Ample charging stations not only make EV ownership more convenient and smoother but are also instrumental in reducing range anxiety.
Recognising the importance of adequate charging stations, the Government of India announced an EV Charging Infrastructure Policy in 2025. This aims to ensure EV ownership is more practical for millions of citizens by building well-situated charging stations within three kilometres in cities and 25 km apart on highways . Thereby, people can make the transition to EVs without worrying about charging hassles.
Besides increasing the density of charging stations throughout urban and rural zones, the new policy seeks to promote interoperability and standardisation. In the past, diverse charging technologies led to issues of compatibility between different battery makers. The 2025 EV policy will enforce common charging norms, ensuring that EVs of all brands can easily access public charging infrastructure without any problem.
The Shift Towards Mainstream Adoption
Thanks to the series of conducive measures, EV adoption has risen steadily across India. The numbers from JMK Research & Analytics’ report for FY2025 reveal that EVs have crossed the two-million milestone in annual sales. By March 2025, the report noted that the overall cumulative sales reached 61.65 lakh units. It further mentioned that electric 2-wheelers accounted for more than 50% of all EVs sold during this financial year. The rapid 19% year-on-year growth is being propelled by the reliability and affordability of EVs, along with growing urban congestion and rising fuel prices.
There are indications that EVs are progressively moving towards mainstream adoption. Currently, EVs are reported to constitute around 5% of the country’s total passenger car sales, having nearly doubled from 2.6% in the previous year. Though the early movers previously dominated this segment, more mainstream customers are choosing EVs because of softening prices, more model options and greater awareness regarding the long-term benefits of a sustainable mobility mode.
The Central Government’s sustained support through schemes such as FAME-II, plus state-level EV policies, has also been pivotal in spurring more demand. Further, lower road taxes, subsidies on EV purchases and incentives for building charging infrastructure have been crucial in reducing total ownership costs, making EVs more affordable and accessible to consumers.
Additional Factors Facilitating Greater EV Sales
It is worth noting that both public and private entities are investing in new charging stations across cities, commercial hubs and highways. Whether it is the daily commute of users or long-distance drives, a series of charging stations strategically placed at various points is eliminating range anxiety among EV owners. This is undoubtedly the biggest driver for rising EV adoption as it enhances the trust quotient of buyers.
In the coming years, greater collaboration between vehicle manufacturers, energy providers and battery makers will facilitate the development of faster, long-lasting and affordable EV solutions. Considering the ongoing growth momentum, EVs could command around 15 to 20% of the domestic passenger vehicle sales by 2030. When this happens, India will be well-placed to lower its dependence on imported oil while meeting climate change commitments as it moves towards a cleaner automotive landscape.
Apart from the above, consistent product performance, clear-cut warranties and strong service networks will help in driving greater customer satisfaction among EV owners. Additionally, a series of supportive steps and innovative product development will be critical in developing long-term loyalty and trust-driven adoption among EV buyers. In the ultimate analysis, buoyed by an increasingly enabling environment for EVs in India, sales of electric vehicles are bound to rise with every passing year.
Vikas Singh is the MD of Greaves Electric Mobility. Views expressed are the author's personal.