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Electric vehicles (EVs) are all the rage these days. With their promise of lower emissions and smooth, quiet rides, it’s no wonder that the global demand for EVs has been soaring. However, if you live near the coast — or anywhere prone to flooding — there’s a less-talked-about risk that could make you rethink that shiny new electric car parked in your driveway: saltwater-induced fires from flooded EV batteries. <h2>Saltwater and EV batteries</h2>When it comes to EVs, the heart of the vehicle’s power lies in its battery, usually a lithium-ion (Li-ion) pack. These batteries are highly efficient, but they’re also sensitive to water, especially the salty kind. In September and October 2024, the Southeast U.S. was hit by hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused catastrophic flooding. Thousands of homes were damaged, and in a particularly frightening twist, 11 electric cars and 48 lithium-ion batteries caught fire after being exposed to salty floodwaters. Saltwater is a conductor of electricity, which means it can get into the EV battery packs, triggering a dangerous reaction. When water seeps into the battery, it can cause a short-circuit between the battery's terminals, which may lead to overheating, violent fires, and even explosions. In many cases, the fire doesn’t start right away — it can take hours or even days after the exposure before a thermal runaway event occurs, causing a dangerous blaze. Once the fire starts, it’s nearly impossible to put out with regular fire-fighting methods. Firefighters often have no choice but to let the battery burn itself out. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113906136" title="Planning to purchase an EV? Here&amp;#39;s how to ensure it never catches on fire" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In 2022, during Hurricane Ian in Florida, 36 EVs that had been flooded reportedly caught fire, even some that were being towed on flatbed trucks. The problem lies in how lithium-ion batteries react to saltwater. The metal terminals in these batteries, when exposed to salty water, can corrode and build short-circuiting paths that lead to fires days later. The fire hazard remains even in fully discharged batteries, meaning even seemingly "safe" vehicles after flooding could still pose a serious threat. <h2>The risk to coastal cities</h2>This issue is especially concerning for coastal cities where rising sea levels and hurricanes are becoming more frequent. According to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), <keyword id="381751" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicle" source="Orion">electric vehicle</keyword> adoption is growing rapidly in many parts of the world, including India, where EV sales increased by around 50% in the first quarter of 2024 alone. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi are embracing EVs due to their environmental benefits and growing infrastructure support. However, these coastal cities are also at higher risk for flooding, making the combination of increased EV adoption and rising sea levels a perfect storm for potential disaster. In fact, areas prone to heavy rains and floods, like India’s coastal cities, are facing unique challenges. The combination of frequent monsoon floods and rising sea levels presents a scenario where more and more EVs could end up submerged in salty floodwaters, increasing the risk of battery fires in the region. <h2>What does this mean for you?</h2>While electric cars are generally safe under normal conditions, the growing risk of battery fires due to flooding is an important factor to consider if you live in flood-prone areas, especially near the sea. The key takeaway here is that EV owners should take extra precautions when natural disasters loom, particularly hurricanes and floods. Here's what you can do to protect your EV: <ul><li>Move your EV to higher ground: If you're in a flood zone, take your EV to higher ground or evacuate it if possible. This will help prevent it from being submerged in salty water.</li><li>Evacuate early: Be proactive and evacuate before the floodwaters hit. Don't wait for the last minute to move your vehicle to safety.</li><li>After the flood, treat submerged EVs with caution: If your EV has been submerged in water, especially saltwater, it’s essential to avoid using it, charging it, or even moving it until it’s been inspected by professionals. Contact the manufacturer for a thorough inspection of the battery.</li><li>Do not attempt DIY fixes: If your vehicle has been exposed to saltwater, do not try to start it, charge it, or fix the battery yourself. The risks of fire are too high, and professionals are trained to handle such situations safely.</li></ul>

Buying an EV may be a somewhat dangerous move if you live near the sea

Up to 3.72 lakh <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword> will be supported under the four-month <keyword id="20961992" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Electric-Mobility-Promotion-Scheme" source="keywords">Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme</keyword> (<keyword id="20951149" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="EMPS" source="keywords">EMPS</keyword>) being implemented between April and July with an outlay of Rs 493.55 crore, the government said on Tuesday. Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) - 2024 will provide further impetus to the <keyword id="20156633" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-mobility" source="keywords">green mobility</keyword> and development of electric vehicle (EV) <keyword id="20071405" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="manufacturing-ecosystem" source="keywords">manufacturing ecosystem</keyword> in the country. The maximum number of electric vehicles to be supported under the scheme stands at 3,72,215, including 3,33,387 electric <keyword id="20201345" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="two-wheelers" source="keywords">two-wheelers</keyword>, 13,590 e-rickshaws or e-carts and 25,238 electric three-wheelers in the L5 category, according to figures shared by the <keyword id="20021346" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ministry-of-Heavy-Industries" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Ministry of Heavy Industries" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Ministry of Heavy Industries">Ministry of Heavy Industries</keyword>. "EMPS 2024 is fund limited, with restricted number of vehicles and a term-limited Scheme, i.e., the <keyword id="19977665" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="subsidies" source="keywords">subsidies</keyword> for <keyword id="22519910" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="demand-incentive" source="keywords">demand incentive</keyword> are eligible for e-2w and e-3w sold and registered until the funds are available or the number of vehicles supported reaches the maximum number defined category-wise (shown in para above) or until July 31, 2024, whichever comes first," the ministry stated.

Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme to support up to 3.72 lakh EVs: Govt

As the global urgency to combat <keyword id="19907392" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="keywords">climate change</keyword> intensifies, all eyes are on India's <keyword id="19955368" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Budget-2024" source="keywords">Budget 2024</keyword>, as there’s no better way to walk the talk than allocating funds. Speculation is rife about the potential measures the government may introduce to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future — a move that is supremely necessary after the slew of deadly climate catastrophes that we saw last year. India’s Union Budget 2024 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a couple of days, and is expected to reflect the nation’s commitment to achieving <keyword id="21280854" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="net-zero-carbon-emissions" source="keywords">net-zero carbon emissions</keyword> by 2070. Here are some of the key initiatives from the interim budget that was presented in February earlier this year, along with their anticipated impacts! <h2>Rooftop Solarisation</h2>One of the most talked-about initiatives is the ambitious rooftop solar programme, which aims to provide free electricity up to 300 units per month to one crore households. If implemented, this move will help in not only cutting down energy bills — a godsend for the middle- and lower-income folks — but will also give households a chance to generate and even sell their surplus power. <h2>Electric Vehicle (EV) Ecosystem</h2>Charging up the electric vehicle movement, the interim budget included measures to expand EV manufacturing and infrastructure in the country. The move aimed to accelerate the adoption of <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword>, reducing emissions from the transport sector and making your commute cleaner and greener. Additionally, the government seemed keen on encouraging the adoption of electric buses to make urban travel more eco-friendly. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111855546" title="Budget 2024: How will budget affect India’s position in the global space race?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2><keyword id="20495045" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="offshore-wind-energy" source="keywords">Offshore Wind Energy</keyword></h2>Riding the winds of change, the interim budget introduced a viability gap funding for 1 GW of offshore wind energy. As per the Finance Ministry, this initiative aims to harness the power of India’s vast coastline, pushing the envelope on <keyword id="19895602" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="renewable-energy" source="keywords">renewable energy</keyword> and reducing our fossil fuel dependency. <h2><keyword id="22499996" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-green-hydrogen" source="keywords">National Green Hydrogen</keyword> Mission</h2>The interim budget also supercharged the National Green Hydrogen Mission with a massive boost to Rs 600 crore from last year’s Rs 297 crore. The government has continually insisted that Green Hydrogen is set to become the fuel of the future, and this announcement supports its development and adoption, paving the way for cleaner industrial processes. <h2>Coal Gasification and Liquefaction</h2>Switching up the coal game, the interim budget plans to set up coal gasification and liquefaction projects that will be able to process 100 metric tonnes by 2030. These projects aim to make the most out of coal in a cleaner way, especially by reducing our reliance on imported natural gas and slashing emissions. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111827903" title="Union Budget 2024 for Railways: Expectations focused on improving passenger safety, experience, infrastructure" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Bioenergy and Biomass Aggregation</h2>Turning waste into wealth, the interim budget has also promised additional financial assistance for biomass aggregation. This, they explain, will help in creating a sustainable model for managing agricultural waste, promoting bioenergy production and giving farmers a new revenue stream. <h2>Research and Development (R&amp;D)</h2>In a nod to innovation, the interim budget allocated a whopping Rs 1 lakh crore for interest-free financing in “sunrise” R&amp;D for emerging <keyword id="19931192" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-technologies" source="keywords">green technologies</keyword>. If the government follows through on this promise, the funding could catapult a wave of innovation, supporting the transition to a sustainable energy future. By focusing on renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting green technologies, India’s initial budget allocations seem to be taking significant strides towards its net-zero goal. Whether this will ultimately pan out to become a greener and more resilient future for its citizens remains to be seen.

Budget 2024: Key sustainability and energy initiatives that Indian government plans to implement this year

<ul><li><keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">Electric vehicles</keyword> (EVs) are gaining popularity worldwide</li><li>However, concerns remain about their environmental impact</li><li> <keyword id="21881868" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="alternative-fuel" source="keywords">Alternative fuel</keyword> vehicles like hydrogen fuel cells and biofuels are some more alternatives we can tap into</li></ul> Electric vehicles or EVs are in their prime right now, with the demand crossing an all-time high. A trend noticeable around the world, EVs are not only becoming increasingly popular but also fairly affordable. Slowly but surely EVs are overcoming the challenges that crossed them — design, features, safety, and most importantly range. A major credit to this trend can be given to consumer acceptance, policy backing, and improving infrastructure. However, there is a downside to EVs as well. Having featured multiple EVs with our series<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCR3PaYxcmk&amp;t=1s" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> Short Spin, </a>I developed a strong reference point. This made me wonder why are we so heavily reliant on them. Over its life cycle, EVs cannot be termed as particularly environmentally friendly, which has been their main selling point over the past few decades. <h2>The ‘Red’ side of EVs</h2> There is a bit of red within the go-green agenda that EV manufacturers push. EVs as a whole do come with benefits like low maintenance, improved efficiency and ultimately lower fuel emissions. However, <keyword id="21357488" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="EV-production" source="keywords">EV production</keyword> and disposal can have detrimental effects on the natural environment. Here are some socio-ecological concerns over EVs: 1. High carbon footprint in battery production: EV battery production is energy-intensive and often relies on electricity from fossil fuels, leading to a high initial carbon footprint. This is elaborated in a story recently published by Earth Org. 2. Resource constraints and ethical concerns: Particularly with the extensive mining of cobalt and other minerals for EVs, there has been a global outcry. Limited availability of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, shady mining practices long work hours, unsafe work environments, and use of child labour in underdeveloped parts of the world have raised several ethical issues around the sustainability of EVs. This issue can be explored further in this essay by Al Jazeera. 3. Recycling and end-of-life challenges: EV battery recycling is currently inefficient, costly, and poses significant environmental risks, with a huge amount of batteries ending up in landfills. 4. Manufacturing costs and economic barriers: High production costs, especially for batteries, make EVs more expensive than conventional vehicles and require significant investments in new manufacturing facilities and supply chains. 5. Supply chain and geopolitical risks: Critical mineral resources necessary for EV production are concentrated in a few countries. This leads to vulnerabilities in the complex supply chain and often risks disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, or natural disasters. China as of today controls 83% of EV battery production in the world, with a major stronghold on the supply chain. While I am in no way suggesting to drop out of EVs, I believe sticking to just one alternative risks replicating the same mistake we did for ICE vehicles. So, what are the alternatives? <h2>The alternates fuel vehicles (<keyword id="23193800" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AFVs" source="keywords">AFVs</keyword>)</h2> AFVs are a growing segment of the automotive industry that utilize fuels other than traditional gasoline or diesel. These vehicles offer similar potential benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. While EVs are also a form of AFVs, here we will list out other major alternatives like hydrogen fuel and biofuel options. Hydrogen fuel cells: Convert hydrogen gas into electricity, emitting only water vapour. Currently, <keyword id="19906788" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Toyota" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Toyota" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Toyota">Toyota</keyword> and Hyundai are the only hydrogen-based cars in the Indian market. Hydrogen internal combustion engines: These vehicles use hydrogen as a fuel in modified combustion engines. While road-legal vehicles for this fuel type aren’t out, BMW with hydrogen 7 is working on a prototype. Ethanol: This is a renewable fuel made from plant materials, commonly mixed with gasoline. In America, Ford F-150 Flex-Fuel and Chevrolet Silverado Flex-Fuel are utilizing this technology. Biodiesel and renewable diesel: Derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled grease, these fuel types can be used in diesel engines. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Perhaps the most famous alternative for cabbies in Delhi, CNG is in popular demand. Technically it is used in specially modified internal combustion engines, primarily for lower emissions. Propane (Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG): A byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining, used in internal combustion engines. As technology continues to advance, these AFVs are becoming more accessible and affordable, making them a promising option for sustainable transportation. If you are an eco-conscious buyer in today’s auto market, bear in mind that there are options beyond EVs as well. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/mercedes-expands-bev-range-rolls-out-second-locally-produced-model-in-india/articleshow/113388002.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Mercedes expands BEV range; rolls out second locally produced model in India</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/electric-two-wheeler-adoption-in-india-rising-13-share-expected-by-2026-27-jefferies/articleshow/113361787.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Electric two-wheeler adoption in India rising, 13% share expected by 2026-27: Jefferies</a>

EVs are not the only options for alternative fuel — make way for hydrogen and bio-fuel

Luxury car maker <keyword id="19980471" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mercedes-Benz" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Mercedes-Benz" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</keyword> India on Monday expanded its <keyword id="20763359" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Battery-Electric-Vehicle" source="keywords">Battery Electric Vehicle</keyword> (BEV) range in the country with the launch of the locally produced <keyword id="23188212" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EQS-580-4MATIC" source="keywords">EQS 580 4MATIC</keyword>. India is the first country outside the US to start the <keyword id="20805504" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="local-production" source="keywords">local production</keyword> of the seven-seater electric SUV. EQS SUV 580 4MATIC is the second model, after the EQS sedan, to be locally produced at company's Pune-based manufacturing plant. "This will be our sixth EV in India, and the second car to be locally produced in India. We are also proud that India becomes the first market out of the US to locally manufacture the EQS," Mercedes-Benz India Managing Director and CEO Santosh Iyer told PTI in an interaction. The move to manufacture the product locally outlines the company's commitment to electrification and increasing product portfolio offering choices to customers, he added. "EQS SUV's localisation underpins our deep commitment to grow the Indian <keyword id="23188213" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="luxury-electric-car" source="keywords">luxury electric car</keyword> market and reinforce our commitment for a greener and sustainable future," Iyer said. The move also supports the government's vision of Make-in-India, he said. Iyer said local production has led to a significant advantage in terms of pricing the electric SUV. The introductory price of EQS SUV 580 4MATIC starts at Rs 1.41 crore which should also make a lot of customers shift to EVs much faster in terms of transition, he said. When asked about the demand for green vehicles, Iyer said the sales of EVs were growing in the country with even high-end products finding acceptance. "The EQA sedan which was introduced in India around 18 months back, we have sold more than 500 cars. It's a car costing more than Rs 1.6 crore. Our total penetration of EVs is 5 per cent today, it's growing. For sure, customer acceptance is there," he stated. Iyer noted that the company remains committed to offer top-end luxury EV products offering higher range in the market. He noted that there may be more opportunities in the entry EV segment but the focus of the company firmly remains on bringing luxury products in the market. "To bring products at lower price points, that is not our current strategy," Iyer said. The company aims to offer products with higher driving range, a factor that leads to bigger battery and escalation in price, he added. The EQS SUV 580 4MATIC is India's longest range electric SUV with ARAI certified range of 809 kms. Iyer said the company remains committed to the Indian market and has announced an additional investment of Rs 200 crore earlier towards manufacturing operations, new product start-ups and digitisation of manufacturing processes. The company till date has invested over Rs 3,000 crore in India, he added. In the January-September period this year, Mercedes-Benz India has launched three new BEVs ' EQA, EQS SUV 580 and Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV. With the EQS SUV 580 4MATIC, the company now offers the EQA, EQB, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQS sedan and Maybach EQS SUV 680 in the market. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/webstories/arkade-developers-ipo-price-band-to-risk-factors-all-you-need-to-know/slidelist/113384216.cms">Arkade Developers IPO – Price band to risk factors, all you need to know</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/xiaomi-and-samsung-accused-of-colluding-with-amazon-and-flipkart/articleshow/113381204.cms">Xiaomi and Samsung accused of colluding with Amazon and Flipkart</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/motorola-edge-50-neo-with-dimensity-7300-50mp-camera-launched-in-india/articleshow/113386868.cms">Motorola Edge 50 Neo with Dimensity 7300, 50MP camera launched in India</a>

Mercedes expands BEV range; rolls out second locally produced model in India

As the world celebrates World EV Day, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s significant progress in adopting <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword> (EVs) across various categories is commendable, however, there is still a long way to go. The government of India's <keyword id="23096041" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Vaahan-Dashboard" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Vaahan Dashboard" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Vaahan Dashboard">Vaahan Dashboard</keyword> data shows an increasing trend to shift towards green mobility solutions. The most notable trend in EV penetration has been witnessed in the three-wheeler category, where EVs have surged ahead in overall sales. According to the data, 53.61% of all new three-wheeler vehicles purchased this year (2024) were electric, making this segment the leader in <keyword id="20421629" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-adoption" source="keywords">EV adoption</keyword>. The two-wheeler segment has also shown encouraging signs of EV adoption, with electric vehicles accounting for 4.97% of all two-wheeler sales so far in 2024. While the percentage is lower compared to <keyword id="20412606" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="three-wheelers" source="keywords">three-wheelers</keyword>, the two-wheeler category holds significant potential for growth, given its dominance in India's overall vehicle sales market. As more consumers seek cost-effective and <keyword id="20991927" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmentally-friendly" source="keywords">environmentally friendly</keyword> alternatives, the penetration of EVs in this segment is expected to grow further in the coming years. However, in the four-wheeler segment, the adoption of EVs remains relatively low, with electric cars making up just 2.14% of total car sales this year. Despite this, the increasing availability of EV models and government incentives are expected to drive further growth in this segment. Interestingly, the penetration of electric buses is higher than that of electric cars, with 3.20% of all new buses sold in 2024 being electric. This trend highlights the growing importance of sustainable public transport solutions as cities aim to reduce emissions and promote cleaner alternatives in mass transit. "Electric vehicles offer a very compelling solutions because they do not emit any tailpipe emissions so that improves their air quality that reduces their air pollution. It also reduces the carbon emission so it helps India to meet with its climate goals and generally, electric vehicles have lower operating cost as compared to the IC engine vehicles," said Samhita Shiledar, Director RMI to ANI. On a state-wise level, the Vaahan dashboard data highlighted that Goa leads the country in EV penetration, with 14.20% of all new vehicles sold this year being electric. Tripura ranks second, followed by Chandigarh in third place. Delhi also stands out with a 10.72% penetration of EVs in total vehicle sales, showcasing the capital's push towards sustainable urban mobility. On the other hand, Himachal Pradesh reported the lowest EV penetration, with only 1.09% of new vehicles sold being electric. In terms of total number of EV sales across all segments in India, the two-wheeler category dominates the electric vehicle market in India, accounting for approximately 51% of total EV sales this year. As World EV Day highlights the global commitment to cleaner mobility solutions, India's data reflects a promising shift but a long way to go towards electrification across various vehicle segments.

World EV Day: 50%+ three-wheelers, 5% of 2-wheelers, and 2% of cars purchased in 2024 are EVs.

<keyword id="19910508" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amazon-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Amazon India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Amazon India">Amazon India</keyword> on Monday said that it has formed a strategic <keyword id="19900447" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="partnership" source="keywords">partnership</keyword> with electric mobility firm <keyword id="20992233" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Gentari" source="keywords">Gentari</keyword> for its EV deployment programme as it targets a fleet of 10,000 <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword> for last-mile deliveries by 2025. Under the collaboration, Gentari Green Mobility Business will procure and deploy electric vehicles for the company in the next three years besides providing comprehensive fleet management services to the delivery service partners (DSPs) to ensure the seamless operation and upkeep of the <keyword id="20475726" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-fleet" source="keywords">EV fleet</keyword>, Amazon India said. The partnership will provide Delivery Service Providers (DSPs) access to more electric three-wheelers for Amazon deliveries, it added. "We aim to empower our delivery service partners by providing them access to the right electric vehicles, end-to-end vehicle life cycle management services, as well as charging and parking facilities," said Abhinav Singh, VP (Operations) at Amazon India. The company deployed more than 7,200 EVs in India at the end of 2023, and it remains well on track to achieve its goal of deploying 10,000 EVs in the domestic market by 2025, he said. Amazon India has operations across 400 cities in the country. "As we work together to deploy more EVs and contribute to India's net zero targets, I'm confident this collaboration will pave the way for a cleaner and electric future for India's transportation sector," said Nikhil Thomas, CEO of Gentari Green Mobility India. Gentari Green Mobility India offers a comprehensive suite of services including a wide network of EV charging points, EV subscriptions through Vehicle-as-a-Service (VaaS), and personalised value-added services. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/webstories/saraswati-saree-depot-ipo-price-band-to-risk-factors-all-you-need-to-know/slidelist/112457330.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/webstories/saraswati-saree-depot-ipo-price-band-to-risk-factors-all-you-need-to-know/slidelist/112457330.cms" target="_blank">Saraswati Saree Depot IPO – Price band to risk factors, all you need to know</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank">India’s wearables market decline for the first time as smartwatch shipments fall</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank">Ola wants to re-enter the quick commerce business to take on Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart</a>

Amazon India partners with Gentari for 10,000 EV fleet by 2025

The Indian automotive landscape is evolving as consumers lean toward both luxury and sustainable options, according to <keyword id="20034170" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Grant-Thornton-Bharat" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Grant Thornton Bharat" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Grant Thornton Bharat">Grant Thornton Bharat</keyword>’s survey, Shifting Gears: Understanding Passenger Vehicle Market Trends. The survey, gathering insights from over 3,500 respondents, found that 85% are interested in high-end variants, with a notable rise in preference for <keyword id="20372525" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hybrid-vehicles" source="keywords">hybrid vehicles</keyword> over electric options. With 40% of respondents favouring hybrids and only 17% opting for EVs, the shift suggests a cautious approach as consumers await more robust <keyword id="20415012" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-infrastructure" source="keywords">EV infrastructure</keyword> and incentives. Meanwhile, 34% still prefer petrol vehicles, indicating the ongoing transition in <keyword id="21046358" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="consumer-preferences" source="keywords">consumer preferences</keyword>. Hybrid vehicles, acting as a bridge, are likely to boost familiarity with green technology, paving the way for broader EV adoption in the future. According to Saket Mehra, Partner and Auto &amp; EV Industry Leader at Grant Thornton Bharat, automakers must focus on both hybrid and electric solutions to match changing demands. This year’s festive season—typically accounting for 30-40% of annual sales—is critical, yet high inventory levels, weather impacts, and regional elections have slowed growth. Utility (UV) and sports utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to dominate, now representing 65% of passenger vehicle sales with 13% growth year-over-year. Despite a slow start to FY25, the popularity of SUVs and UVs reflects a strong preference for versatile vehicles. Yet, automakers are grappling with inventory challenges, with 7.9 lakh units worth ₹79,000 crore in stock as of September 2024. To tap into festive demand, nearly 90% of consumers expect substantial discounts. The survey also highlights a shift in consumer priorities, with a heightened focus on <keyword id="20961985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vehicle-safety" source="keywords">vehicle safety</keyword> overtaking traditional factors like design or performance. Subscription models are also gaining traction, indicating a broader transformation in how Indians perceive mobility solutions.

Indian consumers shift gears toward luxury and sustainability in the auto sector: Survey

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Beazer Homes is building "zero energy," climate-friendly homes even though they're more expensive. </li><li>CEO Allan Merrill said the upfront investment will pay off long-term. </li></ul>A new community of 19 single-family homes north of Baltimore is at the forefront of the green-building movement.Solar panels are on the roofs. Garages come with electrical-vehicle charging. Energy-efficient appliances, including electric heat pumps and induction stoves, are installed. Airtight insulation prevents leaks that waste energy. Fresh-air systems keep indoor air clean. The homes use so little energy that solar could offset most or all energy utility costs.The project was developed by Beazer Homes, one of the largest US homebuilders. Several years ago, the company set a goal that by 2025, all its new homes would meet the US Department of Energy's "Zero Energy Ready" <a target="_blank" href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/zero-energy-ready-home-program">certification</a>. Its CEO, Allan Merrill, said Beazer was close to meeting the goal.The effort has come at a cost; Merrill said climate-friendly features can add $10,000 to $30,000 to construction and that the market for these homes is still emerging. It's also a precarious time, with so many Americans struggling to afford a home and the reelection of Donald Trump threatening to reverse many environmental regulations. But there are tailwinds, including state laws that require industries like utilities and real estate to decarbonize and a record amount of renewable-energy projects across the US.Merrill thinks the up-front investment will be worth it in the long term, even if shareholders haven't rewarded Beazer yet. Prioritizing sustainability helps the company attract the best talent, he said, and homeowners are increasingly concerned about rising utility costs. Now Beazer has to educate customers and the broader real-estate market about the value of green homes."Leadership requires investment," Merrill said. "We made a conscious decision to make less money on all of these homes. Now it's about talking to more customers, becoming more effective at communicating the value, and getting paid for it."<div type="image" title="People stand in the kitchen of a &quot;Zero Energy Ready&quot; home in Parkville, Maryland." height="3463" width="3024" msid="115056622" hostid="261" sizebytes="404276"></div>Merrill added that Beazer is in the middle of that journey. The 19 single-family homes in Parkville, Maryland, cost at least $700,000, which is more than double the area's median sales price in September of $300,000.Merrill said the value of Zero Energy Ready homes comes from lower utility bills, healthier air quality, a quieter living space, and a reduced environmental impact. Beazer estimated that owners of the new homes in Parkville would save about $453 a month in energy-utility costs compared with owners of older homes in town, and $311 a month compared with owners of a typical new build. Better indoor air quality is a selling point for buyers with asthma or other respiratory problems. Renewable energy and electric appliances don't emit fossil fuels."The tricky thing is when people walk in, they're not wearing a button that tells you which of those issues are relevant to them," Merrill said. "That's the discovery process. It's finding a way to connect what we've done to each buyer."He said another challenge is that home appraisals generally don't account for energy efficiency or renewable-energy technologies.Woody Fincham, a residential appraiser in Charlottesville, Virginia, who also teaches courses on sustainable homes for the Appraisal Institute, says few appraisers have the expertise. But he argued that the problem is broader. Real-estate agents need to market green features so that prospective buyers understand their value, which then has to be communicated to mortgage lenders who can seek out qualified appraisers.Still, there's no guarantee that a green home can fetch a higher price, because the market largely depends on what's sold nearby."If you're in a community where people put a lot of value on efficiency — and there are some parts of the country where they do — the appraisal will be able to show that the market is willing to pay more," Andrew Pizor, a senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, said. "But if you're in a community where people don't care about that kind of thing, the appraiser is going to compare prices and likely find that no one's willing to pay extra for it."Two Democrats in Congress have proposed legislation that would require appraisals to consider a home's energy use compared with that of nearby properties, as well as whether the home has energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, and EV charging. The bill would also require additional training for appraisers.But it hasn't passed, and Merrill said Beazer isn't waiting around.

Why the CEO of a big US homebuilder is gambling on green homes

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<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="19895433" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tesla" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tesla" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tesla">Tesla</keyword>'s falling California sales point to bigger problems for the car company.</li><li>Changes to the EV market are finally catching up to Tesla.</li></ul>Tesla is losing some ground in its former home state of California, signaling more trouble ahead for the world's largest electric car company. As <keyword id="20360560" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-car-sales" source="keywords">electric car sales</keyword> rose 2% in California, Tesla's sales in the state fell 3.5%, according to third-quarter <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.cncda.org/news/california-new-car-dealers-association-releases-q3-2024-auto-outlook-report/">figures</a> from the California New Car Dealers Association. That's not an anomaly. It's the third straight quarter of Tesla sales declines in the largest EV market in the US. The losses don't upset Tesla's market dominance: the Elon Musk-led company still accounted for more than half of all EV sales in California for the quarter. Through September 30, Tesla's EV market share in California declined from 64% to 55% year-over-year— still nearly five times that of Hyundai (5.6%) and BMW (5%) combined. The trend in California underscores Tesla's challenges as the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-vehicle-misconceptions-about-the-ev-transition-market-sales-2024-5">EV market matures</a> and new competition makes it harder for the company's aging lineup to entice new buyers. In addition to these economic challenges, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-political-beliefs-public-stances-timeline-republican-desantis-2022-6">Musk's political views</a> have shifted further right, with the CEO endorsing and campaigning for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in the 2024 election. That can impact sales in a solidly blue state like California. Actor Jason Bateman recently said he isn't driving a Tesla anymore because of Musk's connection to Trump. "I got rid of my Tesla," Bateman told vice presidential candidate Tim Walz on an episode of his podcast <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartless.com/episodes/episode/288fe449/governor-tim-walz">Smartless</a>, which he hosts with Sean Hayes and Will Arnett. "I feel like I'm driving around a Trump sticker with that car, so it's gone." <h2>The EV market is maturing</h2>EV demand in the US has been slowing for about a year. It took longer for that slowdown to hit <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla">Tesla</a> than other competitors, but it's clear now that Musk is feeling the pinch as its once-reliable buyer base of wealthy early adopters is replaced by a more practical and frugal green-car shopper. Previous tactics like slashing prices and offering dealership-like incentives to buy Teslas over other EVs aren't working as well as they used to. Following <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-production-deliveries-second-quarter-decline-2024-7">two quarters of slipping sales</a>, Tesla's share of the US electric car market dipped below 50% for the first time at the end of the second quarter, according to data from Cox Automotive. The automotive retail firm attributed much of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-loses-market-share-but-elon-musk-still-wins-2024-7">Tesla's waning dominance</a> to an influx of new competition, which offered EV shoppers more choices. This increase in choices is especially threatening for Tesla, which does not regularly update the looks of its electric cars — a strategy industry experts have been warned for years could come back to bite the company. An increase in demand for hybrid-electric vehicles has also been "detrimental" to Tesla and overall EV adoption, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-blames-hybrids-for-lower-sales-2024-4">according to Musk</a>. Many industry experts disagree, arguing that hybrids are a necessary bridge technology for EV adoption among later adopters. <h2>Elon's politics turn off some customers</h2>Musk is no stranger to controversy. The bombastic billionaire's rise over the past decade has been in part due to his willingness to thumb his nose at some social codes and government agencies. But as Musk becomes a more permanent fixture in the US's far-right movement, some owners and potential customers have been having <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-owners-consider-selling-cars-shares-cybertruck-elon-musk-post-2023-11">second thoughts about supporting Tesla</a>. As Tesla owners take to social media to express their displeasure with Musk's political involvement, automotive industry experts say there could be real consequences for the CEO's "Dark MAGA" era. <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ev-demand-still-strong-despite-slowdown-hybrids-survey-2024-1">Today's electric car shopper</a>, who is often considering an EV for environmental reasons, is less willing to look past Musk's support for Trump and other conservative leaders, experts say. Musk, for his part, has denied that his involvement in politics is impacting sales. "Tesla's sales are actually doing great," he said during a recent X space. "We're hitting all-time highs." Correction — October 31, 2024: An earlier version of this post incorrectly said California was Tesla's home state. The company's headquarters is now in Texas.

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