India’s Push for Zero Emission Trucks Faces Roadblocks and PromiseIndia’s Push for Zero Emission Trucks Faces Roadblocks and Promise

07 Aug 2025

India’s Push for Zero Emission Trucks Faces Roadblocks and Promise

India pushes for zero emission trucks using electric, hydrogen, and biofuel tech to cut freight emissions and boost efficiency.

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By Pratham

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India’s freight trucks emit too much pollution. Diesel trucks form just 3 percent of vehicles. Still, they cause nearly 8 percent of India’s total emissions. This could reach 15 percent by 2050.

Government Promotes Clean Freight Options

The government has launched several schemes. It supports electric vehicles, biofuels, and hydrogen trucks. Through FAME and PM E Drive, it backs cleaner technologies. It wants to reduce emissions and fuel use in commercial vehicles.

Three Fuel Options, Many Trade-Offs

India is testing different fuels. Each option offers value. But each also creates challenges.

Electric trucks are efficient. They emit nothing from the tailpipe. Their batteries are cheaper now. But range limits and long charging times cause issues. Fast chargers are still few.

Hydrogen trucks suit long trips. They carry heavy loads. They offer good fuel economy. But they cost a lot. The fuel is expensive too. And India lacks refuelling stations.

Biofuels are easy to blend. Engines need no big changes. But supplies are tight. Land use and food needs limit biomass. Aviation may get more biofuel than road transport.

Cost Shapes Fleet Choices

Money drives truck sales. Margins are low. Owners think in total cost. That includes fuel, repairs, uptime and resale value.

Electric trucks cost more at first. But they cost less to run. If a truck runs more than 320 kilometres daily, it saves money. Fewer stops help too. Delays cut savings. Driver shortages also hurt returns. So uptime matters.

To fix this, fleets must use trucks better. Clear rules can help. Time penalties for loading delays keep trucks moving. More movement means more savings.

India Must Build Local Strength

India imports many EV parts. These include motors, controllers and battery systems. Local factories can lower prices. They can also build tech for Indian heat. That improves safety and battery life.

Charging Network Needs Growth

Electric trucks need chargers. Fast charging stations must be available on highways. Fewer stops means more up time. This helps total cost stay low. Battery swapping is an option. Overhead lines are another. But both are costly. Fast charging is more realistic now.

Sales Must Solve More Than Payload

Truck buyers want solutions. Not just machines. Makers must guide choices. They must match trucks to routes. They must offer route tools, charge access and performance support.

Some buyers chase prices. Others want power. Some like new tech. Knowing this helps makers sell the right product to the right fleet.

Conclusion: Clean Freight Is Possible

India can cut freight emissions. Zero emission trucks will play a big role. Diesel will stay for some routes. But electric, biofuel and hydrogen trucks will grow.

With better policy, smarter planning and strong local support, India can shift its freight sector towards a cleaner future.

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