What is holding back Mumbai’s auto, taxi drivers from adopting EVs? Check findings of a new survey

“This report, with its insights and recommendations, brings forward the voices of Mumbai’s auto and taxi drivers, the backbone of first and last mile-connectivity in our public transport system. Their concerns on affordability and charging are valid, and we are committed to addressing them,” said Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik during the launch of the report Tuesday.

The survey highlights that, although cost and infrastructure are the primary challenges, other factors also burden drivers. Approximately 28 per cent were worried about restricted driving distance and 24 per cent worried about maintenance expenses in the future. In contrast, 64 per cent thought that subsidies would be crucial to support adoption, and 53 per cent stressed simpler access to credit.

Positives from the survey

Despite the setbacks, there are encouraging signs. Nearly 39 per cent of the drivers reported that EVs would make them increase their earnings by cutting down operating expenses, while an equal proportion thought that the vehicles perform better. Almost half (45 per cent) showed interest in training programmes to grasp EV usage and maintenance.

“A robust charging and battery swapping network, access to financing, and clear operationalisation plans are now necessities to achieve the transition of auto and cabs to EV. This transition is not just about clean air, it is about securing livelihoods for thousands of families,” said Bhagwan Kesbhat, Founder and CEO at Waatavaran Foundation.

The report also highlights health issues, adding that most drivers suffer from chronic ailments associated with long-term exposure to vehicle emissions. With autorickshaws and taxis being the backbone of last-mile connectivity in Mumbai, experts caution that delays in electrification would dampen the city’s journey towards decreasing air pollution.

Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar supported the findings of the report, saying that the results will enable policy direction to be refined. “Transitioning auto-rickshaws and taxis to electric is an important step we can take for cleaner air and lower emissions in Mumbai. Studies like this help us fine-tune policies, direct investments where they matter most, and give momentum to Mumbai’s shift toward a cleaner, more inclusive public transport future,” he said.

The research suggests increasing fast charging and battery swapping facilities in high-demand locations, creating innovative financing options, ensuring exclusive charging and parking spaces in urbanised residential areas and introducing improved scrapping incentives for ageing vehicles.

Sarnaik stated that efforts have already been initiated to increase the charging infrastructure in Maharashtra and that the government would definitely consider financing options with the stakeholders.

“Work is already underway to expand EV charging networks across Maharashtra, and we will actively explore recommendations on innovative financing with all partners and stakeholders. The shift to clean mobility must be ambitious as well as fair, and together we can make it a healthier, more resilient future for the city,” he added.