Arrival of Cars in the US and Indian Market:

Petrol Cars:

USA: The Ford Model T, introduced in 1908, is one of the most iconic early petrol cars
and was a key factor in popularizing petrol vehicles in the US. The first commercially
available gasoline-powered car in the US has likely arrived in the late 1890s.

India: Petrol cars were introduced to the Indian market around the time of independence
(1940s-1950s). Hindustan Motors' Ambassador, introduced in 1958, became an iconic
petrol car in India.

Diesel Cars:
USA: Diesel cars gained some traction in the US during the 1930s, primarily for
commercial vehicles. They didn't become popular until the 1970s and 1980s, largely due
to their fuel efficiency during the oil crises.

India: Diesel cars became more common in India in the 1980s and 1990s. The demand
for diesel vehicles grew due to their fuel efficiency and lower cost of diesel compared to
petrol.

Electrical Cars:

USA: Early electric cars were actually quite popular in the US during the late 1800s and
early 1900s. However, limitations in range and infrastructure, combined with the rise of
affordable gasoline cars, led to their decline.
Interest in electric cars revived in the late 1990’s with models like the GM EV1. The
modern EV movement gained significant momentum with the introduction of the Tesla
Roadster in 2008 and subsequent models like the Nissan Leaf.

India: Electric cars have been relatively recent entrants in the Indian market. The Reva,
launched in 2001, was one of the first electric cars in India. Government initiatives and
rising fuel prices are pushing for faster adoption. The rise in EV battery manufacturing,
supported by key players like Ola, Reliance New Energy and ACC Energy Storage,
alongside the Make in India initiative, will lower manufacturing costs and boost EV sales
 Initially How many years it took for EV cars to get Sales Traction in USA and
India:

USA:

Early Electric Cars (Late 1800s to Early 1900s): The first electric car, introduced in the
US in the late 1800s, saw modest sales. However, their popularity waned by the 1920s
due to limited range, long charging times, and the rise of petrol cars with improved
infrastructure.
1990s: The General Motors EV1, introduced in 1996, marked a significant attempt to
reintroduce electric vehicles to the market. Despite initial interest, the program was
discontinued by 2003, and the cars were mostly recalled. Limitations in battery technology
and high costs kept them a niche market.
2000’s-Present: The real breakthrough came with Tesla Motors. The introduction of the
Tesla Roadster in 2008 and the Model S in 2012 marked significant milestones. It took
Tesla about 4-5 years after the Roadster's introduction to achieve significant sales figures,
with the Model S playing a crucial role in popularizing electric cars. Other manufacturers
like Nissan, with the Leaf introduced in 2010, also contributed to the growing market.

India:

2001: The Reva, launched by the Reva Electric Car Company in 2001, was one of the
first electric cars available in India. Sales were modest initially, primarily due to high costs,
limited infrastructure, and low awareness.
2001-2010: It took nearly a decade for the Reva to achieve any significant sales figures.
During this period, the market for electric vehicles in India remained niche.

2010’s-Present: The Indian market started seeing more substantial growth in electric
vehicle sales in the late 2010s. It took about 5-10 years from the introduction of more
modern electric cars for sales to pick up significantly.

Summary:

In the US, the revival of electric cars in the 1990s saw a slow start, but significant sales
growth began around 4-5 years after the introduction of the Tesla Roadster and Nissan
Leaf.

In India, initial electric car sales were very slow, with significant growth beginning
approximately 5-10 years after the introduction of more modern electric vehicles and
supportive policies.
Why are people still buying petrol and diesel cars despite having electric cars in
USA and India:

USA:

1. Infrastructure
Charging Stations: The network of charging stations, especially fast-charging
stations, is still not as extensive as gas stations in most areas. This can make long-
distance travel in electric cars less convenient.
2. Range Anxiety
Range Anxiety: Many consumers worry about the range of electric cars and the
availability of charging points, especially in rural areas.
3. Initial Cost
Price: EVs often have a higher upfront cost compared to petrol and diesel cars,
even though they may have lower running costs over time.
4. Variety and Availability
Model Options: There are more petrol and diesel car models available, offering a
wider range of choices in terms of size, style, and performance.
5. Familiarity and Habit
Consumer Preference: Many consumers are more familiar with petrol and diesel
cars and may be hesitant to switch to a new technology.

India:
1. Infrastructure
Charging Stations: The charging infrastructure in India is still developing, making
it challenging for EV owners, especially outside major cities. This can be a barrier
for people who don't have access to home charging or who frequently take long
trips.
2. Range and Charging Time
Concerns: Electric cars generally have a shorter driving range on a single charge
compared to a full tank of gas or diesel. This can lead to "range anxiety," where
drivers worry about running out of power before reaching their destination,
especially on long trips.
3. Cost
Upfront Cost: Electric vehicles tend to have a higher upfront purchase price
compared to petrol and diesel cars of similar size and features.

Battery Costs: Battery replacement can be expensive, though this is becoming less
of a concern as battery technology improves.
4. Government Policies
 Incentives: While there are some government incentives for electric cars, they may
not be enough to outweigh the benefits of petrol and diesel cars for many
consumers.
5. Variety and Availability
Options: There are fewer electric car models available in India compared to petrol
and diesel options, limiting consumer choice.
6. Performance and Perception
Power and Reliability: Petrol and diesel cars are perceived to offer better
performance, particularly for long-distance travel and in regions with challenging
road conditions.
7. Towing Capacity
Towing: Electric vehicles generally have lower towing capacities than gasoline or
diesel trucks, which can be a dealbreaker for people who need to tow trailers or
heavy equipment.

Recent Developments in EV Car market in USA and India

USA:

Rapid Sales Growth: In 2023, EV sales surpassed 5% of total car sales, marking a
significant milestone. Tesla continues to lead the market, with the Model 3 and Model Y
being particularly popular.

Traditional Automakers Embrace EVs: Established car companies like Ford, General
Motors, and Stellantis are investing heavily in EV development and production, with new
models hitting the market frequently.
Focus on SUVs: Major automakers are launching electric SUVs to cater to consumer
preferences, potentially accelerating EV adoption in this popular segment.
Incentives: The US government has been providing various incentives for EV buyers,
including tax credits of up to $7,500 under the federal tax credit program. Additionally,
several states offer their own incentives, such as rebates and access to High-occupancy
vehicle (HOV) lanes.

Expansion of charging stations: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021

includes a $7.5 billion investment to build a national network of 500,000 charging stations
by 2030.
New Models and Diverse Options: Major automakers like Ford, General Motors, and
Volkswagen have introduced new electric models, including the Ford Mustang Mach-E,
Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and VW ID.4, contributing to a wider variety of options for consumers.

Improved Battery Technology: Improvements in battery technology are leading to

longer ranges and shorter charging times. Companies like Tesla, Lucid Motors, and Rivian
are at the forefront of these advancements.

India:

Government Push: The Indian government is actively promoting electric vehicle

adoption with schemes like FAME-II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric
Vehicles in India) that offer subsidies and support for infrastructure development.

GST Reduction: The GST on EVs has been reduced to 5%, compared to 28% for petrol
and diesel vehicles.

Rising Sales: In 2023, EV sales in India crossed the 1 million mark for the first time,
driven by increasing consumer awareness and government incentives.

Maruti Suzuki Entry: The arrival of Maruti Suzuki, India's largest carmaker, into the EV
market with the eVX in 2025 is expected to be a game-changer, potentially bringing down
prices and increasing market penetration.

Charging Network Expansion: Efforts are being made to expand the charging
infrastructure, with plans to install 69,000 charging stations across the country by 2025
under the FAME II scheme.

Rising Fuel Prices: High and volatile fuel prices are making electric vehicles a more
attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.
Local and Global Players: Indian manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra &
Mahindra are introducing new electric models, such as the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra
eVerito. Additionally, global brands like Hyundai, MG Motors, and BYD are entering the
Indian market with their electric offerings.