India’s push for electric trucks (e-trucks) gained momentum in 2025 as Madhya Pradesh launched the first state-level policy supporting e-truck deployment. Maharashtra soon followed with its own policy targeting 20% of new truck sales to be electric by 2030. These moves complement the national PM E-DRIVE scheme, introduced in late 2024, which offers demand incentives for e-trucks. This combination of national and state initiatives aims to overcome the high upfront costs and operational challenges of electric freight vehicles.
State-Level Incentives for E-Trucks
Madhya Pradesh exempts e-trucks from motor vehicle tax and registration fees for two years. Maharashtra offers a purchase subsidy of ₹20 lakh for the first 1,000 e-trucks. These incentives address the high purchase price of e-trucks, which is currently 2 to 3.5 times that of diesel trucks. By reducing ownership costs, states help close the economic gap and encourage adoption. Non-fiscal benefits like toll waivers and green corridors further improve the appeal of e-trucks.
Unique Challenges of E-Truck Deployment
E-trucks differ from light vehicles due to their diverse use-cases and drive cycles. Early deployments have focused on closed-loop operations in industries such as cement and steel. State policies tailored to local industrial clusters and freight patterns are crucial. Pilot projects supported by incentives can prove the techno-economic viability of e-trucks and build confidence among fleet operators.
Health and Environmental Benefits
India ranks among the top countries with premature deaths and childhood asthma linked to road transport pollution. Diesel trucks contribute to nitrogen dioxide levels in cities like Delhi. Mandating phased e-truck adoption in predictable routes and municipal services can reduce emissions. This approach promotes environmental justice by improving air quality in communities most affected by diesel pollution.
Charging Infrastructure Development
Charging networks are essential for e-truck operations. Maharashtra’s policy identifies key freight corridors such as Mumbai-Pune and Mumbai-Nagpur for charging infrastructure. Truck terminals, like Delhi’s Sanjay Gandhi Transport Nagar, can serve as hubs for long-duration charging. Expanding infrastructure along major routes ensures reliable e-truck deployment and supports freight movement efficiency.
Role of National and Subnational Policies
The PM E-DRIVE scheme provides a national framework and demand incentives. However, state-level leadership is vital to address local economic and geographic diversity. Tailored incentives, infrastructure investment, and regulations enable states to accelerate e-truck adoption effectively. This decentralised approach helps balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the role of state policies in promoting electric vehicle adoption in India and analyse their impact on local economies.
- Examine the environmental and public health benefits of transitioning to electric freight vehicles in urban areas.
- Estimate the challenges involved in developing charging infrastructure for electric trucks and suggest solutions to overcome them.
- Point out the significance of national schemes like PM E-DRIVE and how they complement subnational initiatives in accelerating clean transportation.
