An article by Anand Mimani, CEO, GreenLine Mobility Solutions Ltd
As the climate crisis escalates, India’s transportation sector—one of the largest sources of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions—is at the cusp of a major transformation. Through a concentrated effort by the government, private industry, and citizens, the country is accelerating its shift toward sustainable mobility. Leading this transition are Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs), two transformative technologies poised to reshape India’s transport ecosystem and play a crucial role in cutting its carbon footprint.
LNG: Greener Fuel for Commercial Transportation
India’s vehicle fleet remains largely dependent on gasoline and diesel, both significant contributors to air pollution. Industry reports indicate that the transport sector accounts for nearly 13% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions, a figure set to rise with increasing urbanization and vehicle ownership. While a full transition to electric vehicles is a long-term objective, LNG emerges as a practical near-term solution, especially for commercial transport.
LNG, which is natural gas in its liquid form, has become a key player in the global energy transition. LNG-powered trucks provide substantial reductions in harmful emissions compared to diesel, with up to a 30% decrease in CO2, a 100% reduction in SOx, up to 59% less NOx, and up to 91% less particulate matter. As a result, LNG vehicles offer an immediate opportunity to reduce pollution in urban areas, which is a growing concern for India’s metropolitan regions.
LNG-powered trucks and buses are increasingly being deployed in India’s commercial fleet, offering the potential for a considerable reduction in carbon emissions. The introduction of LNG-powered vehicles aligns well with India’s goal of reducing its reliance on oil imports and enhancing energy security.
However, challenges remain. LNG refuelling infrastructure across India is still in its early stages, and the cost of LNG vehicles, though gradually declining, remains higher than traditional diesel trucks. Yet, with sustained government support, public-private partnerships, and ongoing technological advancements, LNG has the potential to become a key player in decarbonizing India’s transport sector.
EVs: Driving the Future of Short-Haul Logistics
While the long-term vision for India’s transportation future includes the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across all sectors, the immediate focus within commercial transport lies in the integration of EVs for short-haul applications. Electric vehicles, with their zero tailpipe emissions and potential for cost savings, are already proving to be a game-changer for the commercial vehicle sector, particularly in urban and regional transport.
The short-haul segment, which includes vehicles used for deliveries within cities and between nearby towns, is an ideal starting point for the transition to electric commercial vehicles. In this segment, the relatively limited distance travelled means that challenges related to range anxiety and charging infrastructure can be more easily managed. Electric vans, trucks, and delivery vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in India’s logistics and e-commerce sectors, with many companies opting for electric alternatives to reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs.
As urban areas continue to grow, the demand for goods transportation within cities has surged. At the same time, the environmental impact of diesel and petrol-powered vehicles has become a major concern, leading to stricter emission regulations and a push for cleaner alternatives. Electric commercial vehicles are an attractive option as they help reduce air pollution, lower noise levels, and minimize the carbon footprint of deliveries and services. The government’s support through initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme has played a key role in making EVs more accessible and affordable for businesses in this sector.
However, challenges remain. While short-haul electric vehicles offer a promising solution, the infrastructure for charging these vehicles remains underdeveloped, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Many businesses face logistical challenges when it comes to ensuring that their EVs are sufficiently charged for their delivery routes. Additionally, the initial cost of purchasing electric commercial vehicles can be higher than that of conventional vehicles, though the long-term savings in fuel and maintenance costs can offset this.
Still, the outlook for short-haul electric commercial vehicles in India remains optimistic. As battery technology advances and more charging stations are established, the operational range of electric vehicles will increase, and their cost will continue to decrease. The success of early adopters in the short-haul commercial transport sector will serve as a valuable blueprint for scaling EVs to longer-haul freight in the future.
Towards a Sustainable Transport Future
India’s path to a sustainable transport future is complex, yet the adoption of LNG and electric vehicles provides a viable way forward. As infrastructure expands and technology advances, the cost of adoption will decline, while the environmental and economic advantages will become increasingly evident. Success will depend on collaboration, innovation, and sustained effort. Ultimately, India’s transition to greener mobility is not just about cutting emissions—it is about fostering a cleaner, healthier future for generations to come.
Source: Economic Times
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