Despite there is dispute within the automotive industry about intermediate technologies like hybrid electric vehicles, the Indian government is rigidly dedicated to engage on advanced technologies such as battery-powered vehicles and those absorbing green hydrogen. Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog, has also affirmed that India has the capability to become the central hub for the global energy transition through these cutting-edge technologies.
“I frequently hear the voices of firms endorsing intermediate technologies, such as hybrid cars, while others begin endorsing blue and grey gas or hydrogen. I firmly believe that India needs to advance rapidly in cutting-edge technologies such as green hydrogen, electric vehicles, battery storage, and other technology. This will give India the first mover advantage and India becomes the focal point of all emerging technologies from India to the rest of the world,” said Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa.
He was giving a speech at an event called ‘EVOLVE 2024’, which was put on by Amara Raja Energy & Mobility (ARE&M) fully owned subsidiary Amara Raja Advanced Cell Technologies (ARACT).
Kant argues that India has a special chance to lead the world in industrialization and urbanization by utilizing low-carbon technology like lithium-ion. “We import fossil fuels valued at $160 billion, and producing battery packs locally will reduce the need for fossil fuels. They will boost India’s domestic energy independence. We need to build the infrastructure throughout the supply chain so that we are not import dependent on one country,” added Kant, who was the chief guest of the event.
Kant said that lithium-ion technologies, which are essential for supplying electricity to electric vehicles and the new energy industry, are a major factor in the shift to low-carbon technology. Decarbonizing these industries, in his opinion, will involve integrating renewable energy into the power sector and using electric cars in the transportation sector to reduce carbon emissions.
“The amount of devastation in India will be really low if we transit to new technology. On the other hand, there will be a lot of destruction of outdated technologies if you transit in the US. Thus, it is crucial that India adopts new technology, and the power and transportation industries will play a key role in making that happen,” asserted Kant.
Kant also emphasized the significance of developing domestic battery cell manufacturing capabilities. He said, “You can see the repercussions, if the global requirement is dependent on one country like China, using the semiconductor industry as an example. Given the intricacy of the global supply chain, elevating and maintaining battery cell manufacturing is crucial to India’s decarbonisation path.”
