The focus on green energy technologies is driving progress in sustainable mobility, innovative ecosystems, and future-oriented industrial partnerships. This was vividly demonstrated at the second India-EU workshop on EV charging technologies, conducted March 15-17 at Italy’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra.

Co-hosted by the Office of India’s Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA) and the EU’s DG RTD, the event featured key players like JRC, ARAI, and the EU Delegation in India. Diverse stakeholders—including regulators, engineers, standardization experts, researchers, and business leaders—engaged in dialogues to shape a unified EV charging infrastructure.

The agenda included technical deep dives into policy evolutions, industry strategies, high-power megawatt chargers, vehicle-to-grid tech, bidirectional systems, and wireless charging innovations. Hands-on lab tours at JRC showcased cutting-edge EV and smart grid testing setups.

OPSA’s scientific advisor highlighted how such bilateral efforts are essential for trustworthy, compatible charging networks that support clean mobility shifts. EU representatives, such as DG RTD’s Nienke Buisman and JRC’s Dr. Christian Thiel, reinforced the call for stronger collaboration across R&D, standards, and validation to accelerate connected mobility transitions.

As both regions align on these fronts, the workshop lays groundwork for interoperable systems that could redefine electric mobility worldwide, blending India’s market scale with Europe’s technological prowess.

Eco-awareness is reshaping buyer behavior, with families now favoring vehicles that minimize environmental harm. Khan detailed Runner’s broad manufacturing scope: two-wheelers, three-wheelers, commercial fleets, and BYD assemblies, all infused with next-gen tech. ‘We’re advancing in every sector,’ he said.

Affordability varies by model, aligning with diverse customer needs. Some prioritize premium features over rock-bottom prices, a flexibility Runner embraces.

Echoing India’s strides—where EV sales target 30% of new vehicles by 2030 and policies propel manufacturing leadership—Bangladesh is syncing with this wave. Minister HD Kumaraswamy’s February remarks underscored India’s global edge in electric innovation.

The EV boom is a multifaceted revolution: slashing emissions, boosting economies, spurring tech breakthroughs, and driven by smart governance. Despite minor US hesitations, 2026 projections signal explosive growth. Bangladesh’s focus, as articulated by Khan, ensures it’s not just participating but leading the charge toward sustainable transport.

Environmental awareness is reshaping consumer choices, with buyers eyeing low-emission options for their families. Khan elaborated on pricing dynamics, emphasizing Runner’s broad portfolio of two-wheelers, three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and BYD assemblies. ‘We cater to every budget and sector, steadily advancing with new tech,’ he said.

This aligns with India’s aggressive EV strategy. Aiming for 30% electric sales by 2030, the nation is on a fast track, with Minister HD Kumaraswamy highlighting policy-driven leadership in EV innovation by March 2026.

The global EV boom is fueled by its multifaceted impact—slashing pollution, spurring jobs, driving tech progress, and backed by regulations. Despite minor hiccups in places like America, the worldwide shift by March 2026 signals unstoppable momentum. Bangladesh, through leaders like Khan, is ready to lead in sustainable mobility.

The agreement was sealed in the presence of key leaders from both organizations, highlighting a shared commitment to innovative urban solutions. NCRTC’s focus on sustainable mobility dovetails perfectly with SPA’s cutting-edge expertise in architecture and planning, enabling comprehensive strategies for station-area development.

At its core, TOD encourages dense, multifunctional neighborhoods anchored by transit, creating walkable communities that prioritize people over cars. Expect improved pedestrian infrastructure, efficient last-mile options, and amenities that make public transport irresistible.

Beyond design, the partnership tackles financial sustainability through optimized land utilization and value-capture models, backed by data-driven investments. It supports the central government’s six-point TOD roadmap, from corridor selection to policy alignment, ensuring coordinated progress across agencies.

SPA Delhi steps up as the technical backbone, delivering in-depth research, mapping, consultations, and advisory inputs. This framework is scalable, ready to replicate success on upcoming Namo Bharat lines.

Namo Bharat, the nation’s first regional rapid transit system, links bustling corridors like Delhi to Meerut. Paired with TOD, it heralds an era of efficient travel and thriving urban ecosystems, reducing congestion and promoting equity in city expansion.

From dawn patrols at Lodhi Gardens to sunset spins near the Yamuna, routes are meticulously planned to showcase Delhi’s charm without the usual chaos. Youth coordinators have roped in schools, colleges, and NGOs, ensuring inclusivity for all ages and skill levels.

Behind the scenes, preparations are in full swing. Volunteers are mapping out 20+ km loops, partnering with local cafes for hydration stations, and even integrating tech like ride-tracking apps. The focus? Empowering youth voices in urban planning, with panel discussions on sustainable transport post-ride.

Delhi’s air quality woes and rising obesity rates provide stark context. Previous iterations drew over 5,000 participants, sparking conversations with municipal authorities. This year, expect amplified impact with celebrity endorsements and social media challenges.

Safety first: Helmets mandatory, group riding protocols, and police escorts ensure smooth sailing. As the city battles gridlock, ‘Sundays on Cycle’ reminds us that two wheels can outpace four. Mark your calendars – it’s time to cycle for change.

This SUV will be exported not only to the Indian market but also to over 100 countries, including Japan and Europe. The first batch has begun production.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of the day in India’s journey towards self-reliance and becoming a hub for green mobility through his X post. The e-VITARA was flagged off during the program held in Hansalpur.

This statement not only strengthens the Make in India initiative but also furthers India’s identity in the direction of sustainable mobility.

The Maruti e Vitara features a lithium iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack. The company has introduced it with two different battery packs: 49kWh and 61kWh. The SUV features 18-inch alloy wheels. The car is 4,275 mm long, 1,800 mm wide, and 1,635 mm high. The company claims that this SUV will offer a range of over 500 kilometers on a single charge. The look and size of the new Maruti e-Vitara are similar to the concept Maruti eVX presented last year.

During the event, PM Modi also initiated the production of hybrid battery electrodes at the TDS Lithium-ion battery plant in Gujarat. Now, over 80 percent of batteries will be produced in India. This step will take India’s battery ecosystem to the next level and reduce foreign dependence.

PM Modi also flagged off a freight train service filled with cars on this occasion. Currently, more than 600 cars are sent daily from the Hansalpur plant via rail. Currently, three trains run daily from here, supplying Maruti vehicles across the country.

The government has already initiated large-scale hydrogen truck trials across key freight corridors, backed by a Rs 500 crore investment under the National Green Hydrogen mission. Green hydrogen is the long-term goal, but ensuring the economics of its development is crucial. Gadkari welcomed innovations producing hydrogen from municipal solid waste, organic matter, and even bamboo plantations. The Ministry is also developing clean fuel technologies, including 20% ethanol fuel blending nationwide, to reduce crude oil prices. The government also plans to support the launch of hybrid cars compatible with ethanol and isobutanol-diesel blends for commercial suitability. Compressed biogas networks in rural areas are also planned. Furthermore, the government has approved 100% ethanol use in flex-fuel vehicles, and is working on new IC retro fitment kits for IC engines to work with Hydrogen and advanced biofuels. The transformation of India’s auto industry has been valued at Rs 22 lakh crore, the third largest in the world.

These details were taken from Nitin Gadkari’s speech at the Toyota and Ohmium partnership ceremony aimed at developing hydrogen power solutions in India. Toyota will leverage its expertise in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles to support sustainable fuels. Under the new MOU, TKM would supply advanced fuel cell modules and offer system integration and technical consultations. Ohmium, a leader in PEM hydrogen electrolyzer technology, will design and evaluate the performance of hydrogen-driven microgrid prototypes. These partnerships will advance hydrogen applications and support the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The new Leaf features a sleek fastback-inspired silhouette, characterized by flush door handles, aerodynamically optimized wheels, and a flat underbody. Built upon the CMF-EV platform, also utilized by other Nissan vehicles, the new Leaf will offer two battery options: a 52 kWh and a 75 kWh pack. These battery packs are expected to provide a certified range of approximately 430 km to 600 km.

Innovations include a three-in-one electric motor and a heat pump to enhance the efficiency of the heating system. The interior showcases a redesigned dashboard with a pair of 14.3-inch screens running a Google-based infotainment system. The vehicle is equipped with a suite of semi-autonomous features and driving technologies.

Production of the new Leaf will take place at both the Tochigi plant in Japan and Nissan’s Sunderland facility in the UK. With Nissan planning a return to the Indian market, the Leaf’s launch in India is a possibility.