India is going all in on electric vehicles. And this time, it’s not just talk—it’s action. On June 24, the Centre launched an online portal to invite global carmakers to Make in India under a brand-new EV manufacturing scheme. This isn’t just about cutting emissions—it’s about building India into a serious EV powerhouse.
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who announced the launch, said the new scheme will drive local manufacturing, create jobs, and attract big players from around the world. The government wants India to become the next big EV hub, not just a market for imported cars.
What’s in the Policy?
The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) offers:
- Duty cuts of up to 15% for up to 8,000 electric cars per year, priced from ₹30 lakh (approx. $35,000)
- In return, companies must invest at least ₹4,150 crore
- The investment must lead to a local factory within 3 years
Applications can be submitted on the official portal spmepci.heavyindustries.gov.in from June 24 to October 21, 2025.
Who’s Likely In—And Who’s Not
Tesla, as usual, wants to sell but not build. Reports suggest it will rely on exports from its German plant rather than set up shop in India. Chinese EV giant BYD faces political roadblocks. But others like VinFast (Vietnam) are already building in India.
Companies like Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Skoda, and Volkswagen are seen as likely contenders to Make in India under this new policy.
Also Read Big Boost to Bharat! Suzlon Bags 170.1 MW Green Deal to Power India’s Energy Dreams
Why This Matters
This move hits multiple goals at once. It’s part of India’s Net Zero by 2070 commitment, a step toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and a long-overdue nudge to reduce our reliance on Chinese imports for EV minerals.
As noted in the Economic Survey 2025 (dofollow), India needs to build EVs locally and focus more on public transportation. That’s especially important in a country where space is tight, and public mobility is the way forward.
Challenges Ahead
Groups applying must show strong financials:
- ₹10,000 crore in annual automotive revenue
- ₹3,000 crore in fixed assets
This limits the pool to serious players. But it also ensures only the committed join the Make in India journey.
The Road to a Cleaner Future Starts Here
This isn’t just another policy. It’s a statement. India isn’t waiting around to play catch-up in the EV race—it’s inviting the world to come build the future here. It’s about time we stopped just driving the future and started manufacturing it.
Also Read Tesla’s First India Showroom Set to Open in Mumbai Ahead of Model Y Launch
