In India, the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) is gaining significant momentum as both the government and private companies strive to boost their adoption. However, an intriguing relationship is emerging between the railway system and the growth of electric vehicles. Recent studies suggest that the railway network could play a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of EVs across the country. Understanding this connection can lead to enhanced infrastructure planning and greater consumer acceptance of electric vehicles in India.
Insight from Recent Studies
A comprehensive study conducted across 328 cities in China reveals a significant connection between high-speed rail (HSR) development and the rise of electric vehicle sales. Between 2010 and 2023, as China expanded its high-speed rail network, the number of electric vehicles on its roads also saw remarkable growth. Beginning with a single line in 2008, China’s high-speed rail system now spans 96% of its cities. Additionally, the entry of companies like Tesla into the Chinese market in 2014 coincided with the rise of over 22 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2023.
Impact of High-Speed Rail on EV Sales
The study indicates that cities newly serviced by high-speed rail networks experienced a noticeable increase in electric vehicle sales. Specifically, the market share of EVs in these cities grew by an average of 1.22%, while sales surged by an impressive 91.39%. In stark contrast, India’s current electric vehicle sales hover around a mere 3%, primarily due to a shortage of public charging stations, which currently number only about 25,000 across the country.
The Need for Enhanced Railway Investment
In India, there has been a notable focus on road infrastructure, while investment in the railway sector has lagged behind. As a result, the speed of Indian Railways remains significantly lower than its counterparts. For instance, in 2023, express trains in India operated at an average speed of 51 km/h, compared to China’s high-speed rail, which can exceed speeds of 350 km/h. The upcoming bullet train project, connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad, is set to launch in 2026, promising a boost in rail travel speed. However, simply offering subsidies or tax exemptions will not be sufficient for India to achieve a 45% market share for EVs, as seen in China; an efficient railway network is crucial.
The Road Ahead: Bridging Rail and Electric Vehicles
As India aims for a sustainable future with a robust electric vehicle market, integrating railway expansions with EV initiatives could be a game changer. Investments in high-speed rail not only facilitate quicker transit but also indirectly promote EV usage by enhancing access to charging infrastructure and reducing travel times. It’s vital for India to learn from China’s experience and develop a synergistic strategy that aligns railway growth with electric vehicle adoption. By focusing on both sectors, India can pave the way for a cleaner, greener transportation future.