The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Heavy Industries, organized the second edition of the “Green Plate EV Rally” at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The event aimed to raise public awareness about the environmental and economic advantages of electric vehicles (EVs) over traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, promoting EV adoption as a sustainable transportation solution.
The rally was flagged off by Chief Guest Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, Union Minister of Heavy Industries & Steel, alongside Padma Shri Dr. Narain Karthikeyan, India’s first Formula 1 racer, and other key dignitaries from the government and automotive industry.
To showcase the growing range of EV models in India, the event featured 151 electric vehicles from 16 leading manufacturers, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, cars, buses, and trucks. The vehicles highlighted recent advancements in EV technology, emphasizing their increasing acceptance among Indian consumers.
Speaking at the event, Shri Kumaraswamy noted, “India’s automotive sector, now the third-largest globally, contributes 7% to the nation’s GDP. This rally offers a firsthand look at the superior performance and reduced running costs of EVs. The government remains committed to driving EV adoption for the benefit of all.”
SIAM President Vinod Aggarwal, also MD & CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles, stated, “The 2nd Green Plate EV Rally under SIAM’s ‘Electrification’ initiative showcases the progress made by Indian manufacturers in the EV space, addressing customer concerns like range anxiety and charging infrastructure.”
The rally coincided with World EV Day, with SIAM Executive Director Prashant K. Banerjee moderating the opening session, themed “Electric Vehicles for a Green Future.” SIAM Vice President Shailesh Chandra, MD of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, praised India’s growth in the EV market, noting government policies like reduced GST, FAME, and PLI schemes have played a key role in advancing EV adoption.
Chandra highlighted that India now has over 8,000 electric buses, with 2-wheelers reaching 5% EV penetration and three-wheelers at 15%, while four-wheelers account for 2% with over 200,000 EVs on the road. The event also featured a “Myth Busting Session” at the Switch Delhi Rajghat EV Charging Station to address common misconceptions about EV charging times and promote the practical benefits of EVs.
Industry leaders including Sushant Naik, Chairman of SIAM Electric Mobility Group, and Vipin Surana, Co-Chairman of the group, also shared their views on the country’s EV adoption and charging infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of continued innovation and government support to sustain growth. SIAM continues to play a key role in supporting the growth of the Indian automotive industry, with a focus on environmental sustainability and safety for vehicle users and the public.
