Toyota Pushes Multi-Tech Path for India's Energy Security, Self-Reliance
Overview
Toyota Kirloskar Motor advocates a multi-technology approach for India's energy security and self-reliance goals. Citing geographical diversity and geopolitical supply risks, the automaker argues that battery electric vehicles, hybrids, flex-fuel, and hydrogen technologies are all crucial. This strategy aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency, boost local manufacturing, and combat carbon emissions, as EVs alone cannot meet national objectives.
Multi-Technology Essential for India's Energy Goals
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is urging India to adopt a multi-pronged green technology strategy to achieve its energy security and self-reliance objectives. According to TKM Country Head Vikram Gulati, this approach is vital given India's vast geographical diversity and the emerging geopolitical situations that create supply chain vulnerabilities for fossil fuels.
The automaker believes that a singular focus on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is insufficient. Instead, it advocates for a combination of technologies including BEVs, hybrids, flex-fuel vehicles, and emerging solutions like hydrogen fuel cells. This diverse technological portfolio is seen as necessary to navigate challenges related to consumer acceptance, infrastructure readiness, and the country's energy mix.
Beyond EVs: Hybrids and Other Fuels Crucial
Gulati highlighted that while EVs and hybrids play a role, other alternatives like ethanol and compressed biogas (CBG) are also critical for addressing localized pollution issues and contributing to energy security. He specifically noted that hybrid vehicles are particularly well-suited for congested urban environments like Delhi, where stop-start traffic and lower average speeds allow the electric motor to operate more efficiently.
Addressing carbon emissions is a shared global challenge, and TKM is committed to moving away from petrol and diesel vehicles. The company possesses a wide range of clean technologies, from full EVs to plug-in hybrids and fuel cell vehicles, aiming to build a strong portfolio that aligns with sustainable mobility goals and global environmental commitments.
Localization and Viability Key for Sustainable Mobility
The path to sustainable mobility in India must be driven by localization, TKM stated. However, the company acknowledges that the industry cannot perpetually rely on subsidies or low tax structures. Viability is paramount, and TKM believes this will be achieved through scale, which in turn depends on introducing more electrified technology products into the market.
The common adversary, Gulati emphasized, is fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions, regardless of the technological path chosen. By fostering a diverse range of green technologies, India can enhance local manufacturing, create jobs, bolster the economy, and make significant strides towards its environmental targets.
