The Technology Development Board (TDB), a statutory body under India’s Department of Science and Technology, has announced its support for the development and adoption of retrofit electric kits. The move aims to accelerate India’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) by providing a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new EVs.
The initiative seeks to promote retrofitting conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles with electric kits, enabling older vehicles to run on electricity instead of fossil fuels. This step is expected to address multiple challenges, including reducing vehicular emissions, extending the life of existing vehicles, and lowering the upfront cost of EV adoption.
“TDB is committed to fostering innovative solutions that facilitate India’s green mobility goals,” said a TDB spokesperson. “Retrofit electric kits can play a transformative role by making EV technology accessible to a larger segment of society.”
India’s EV ecosystem is still evolving, with infrastructure and affordability posing significant hurdles. By supporting retrofit kits, the government aims to bridge these gaps while aligning with its ambitious target of achieving 30% electric mobility by 2030.
The development of retrofit kits is being spearheaded by several domestic companies, with TDB offering financial and technical assistance. These kits are designed to meet safety and efficiency standards, ensuring a seamless transition for retrofitted vehicles.
The adoption of retrofit kits is expected to benefit commercial fleets, including taxis and delivery vehicles, which contribute significantly to urban emissions. Industry experts believe this initiative could also create new opportunities for small and medium enterprises in the EV retrofit sector.
While the program is in its early stages, pilot projects are underway in select cities to assess the feasibility and scalability of the technology. TDB’s support signals a strong push from the government to explore innovative pathways for India’s EV transition.
Further details about the retrofit kit initiative, including pricing and rollout timelines, are expected to be announced in the coming months.
