A electric car at a charging station. (Pixabay/MikesPhotos)The centre is planning a framework for a mega battery manufacturing and charging infrastructure that includes using petrol pumps for electric vehicle (EV) charging points in the country, The Times of India reports.
The finalisation of plans comes despite resistance from the huge auto lobby to the new mandate pushing for electrification. The government has set 2023 deadline for selling only electric three-wheelers, and 2025 for all two-wheelers upto 150cc engine capacity to be electric-powered.
“There is the question of lack of charging points across the country. We are looking at how we can get petrol pumps to have charging stations. Once you have a network of charging stations across the country, it will promote the use of electric vehicles,” a senior official said.
At present, there are 60,000 petrol pumps operated by state-run firms, and the centre has plans to double the same. Various private players are also operating gas stations in the country. With the industry complaining about lack of charging infrastructure, the use of existing fuel stations is seen as a win-win deal.
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