Indian Automakers Betting Big On Electric & Hybrid Vehicles In India

Indian automakers are gearing up to the challenge of carbon emission norms and are optimistic about electric and hybrid vehicles. They want to take advantage of the incentives and tax benefits provided by the government.

Dozens of electric and hybrid vehicles are expected to be launched in the coming three to four years. Companies like Mahindra & Mahindra, Hyundai, Toyota, Nissan are looking to accompany the leader of the segment, Maruti Suzuki.

Mahindra is working on a mild hybrid for the XUV, which is expected to be launched in 6 to 12 months. It is also working on the four-door version of the E2o and KUV electric.

Hyundai is working on the soft hybrid on its premium sedan, the Verna and will come in 2017 and is exploring the same technology in the upcoming Tucson SUV.

Nissan will bring India's first hybrid SUV through X-Trail which might be launched next year. Volkswagen and Toyota are planning on focusing on expensive pure hybrids and electric.

The government is offering soaps on the electric and hybrid vehicles through the FAME scheme, which is part of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan.

Maruti's mild hybrid technology uses integrator starter generator (ISG), which conserves energy through braking regeneration and idle stop/stop which offers 5 to 15 percent increase in fuel consumption. The combination of technology and the tax benefits make the proposition a clear favorite and automakers in the country want to make the best use of it.

Via ET Auto