This project update highlights the release of a comprehensive guidebook aimed at facilitating the transition to electric auto-rickshaws (e-autos) in Indian cities. The transition to e-autos is critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating urban air pollution and promoting sustainable urban mobility in India. With auto-rickshaws serving as a vital mode of shared mobility, their electrification presents an opportunity to enhance environmental sustainability while improving the livelihoods of drivers and promoting social inclusion.
About the Guidebook
The guidebook offers a roadmap for governing authorities and policymakers, emphasizing the need for an enabling policy and regulatory framework to accelerate the transition to e-autos. It underscores the environmental and socioeconomic benefits of e-autos, including reduced carbon emissions, improved air quality and lower operating costs for drivers. It also provides essential insights and strategies to overcome barriers and accelerate the adoption of e-autos, benefiting both cities and their residents.
The guidebook offers a comprehensive overview of policies, incentives and regulations necessary for promoting e-auto adoption. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between subnational and local authorities, private sector stakeholders and financing institutions to create an integrated approach to auto-rickshaw electrification. Key considerations include the availability of quality e-auto models, development of charging infrastructure and access to affordable financing options for drivers. The guidebook also addresses challenges related to range anxiety, charging infrastructure planning and inclusive participation, particularly for women and marginalized groups. Three case studies from Amritsar, Kochi and Delhi are presented to illustrate challenges and policy measures for an equitable transition.
Stakeholders, including local and state government agencies, policymakers, auto-rickshaw manufacturers, financing institutions and charging service providers, are encouraged to utilize the guidebook’s insights and recommendations in their efforts to promote e-auto adoption. The guidebook serves as a valuable resource for developing policies, regulations and implementation strategies to accelerate the transition to electric auto-rickshaws. Readers can access the guidebook to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with auto-rickshaw electrification and contribute to the development of sustainable urban mobility solutions in India.
Next Steps
Stay updated on further developments in the auto-rickshaw electrification sector and explore opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders. For more information and to access the guidebook, visit Enabling the Shift to Electric Auto-rickshaws: A Guidebook for Electrification of Auto-rickshaw Fleets in Indian Cities | WRI India Ross Center for Sustainable Cities | Helping cities make big ideas happen (wricitiesindia.org) or contact Kanika Gounder (kanika.gounder@wri.org).
