DICV's Satyakam Arya Praises PM E-Drive for Promoting Electric Trucks

Key Highlights:

• DICV praised the PM E-Drive scheme for advancing carbon-neutral mobility.
• The scheme offers incentives for scrapping older trucks, improving safety and reducing emissions.
• It has a budget of Rs 10,900 crore and runs until March 31, 2026.
• DICV plans to launch the eCanter electric truck in India within 6-12 months.
• Daimler Trucks has sold over 2,500 eCanters worldwide, with local assembly planned in India.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has expressed strong support for the government's new PM E-Drive scheme. Satyakam Arya, Managing Director & CEO of DICV, praised the initiative, emphasizing its importance in accelerating India’s shift towards carbon-neutral transportation. 

The scheme aligns with Daimler's sustainability goals, according to Arya, and could speed up the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the country.

Incentives and Fleet Modernization

The PM E-Drive scheme, which links incentives to scrapping older trucks, aims to improve road safety and reduce pollution. Arya pointed out that this approach would not only modernize fleets but also create a more favorable environment for the introduction of EVs.

In a press statement, Arya said, "The PM E-Drive scheme is a pivotal step in advancing carbon-neutral mobility. It promotes safety, reduces emissions, and supports fleet modernization, aligning perfectly with our objectives at Daimler India."

Scheme Replaces FAME II

The Rs 10,900-crore PM E-Drive scheme officially began on October 1, 2024, and will continue until March 31, 2026. It replaces the earlier FAME II initiative, which had a budget of Rs 11,500 crore and ended in March.

Focus on Charging Infrastructure

Arya also emphasized the importance of expanding the charging infrastructure under the scheme. He believes that this will provide essential support for the widespread use of electric trucks, ensuring long-term growth for sustainable transport.

"This initiative will create significant opportunities for the commercial vehicle sector, driving the adoption of clean, efficient, and advanced transport solutions," Arya added.

Daimler India’s Electric Truck Entry

Daimler India's support for the scheme comes just after the company announced its entry into India’s zero-emission truck market. The company is currently testing its light-duty electric truck, the eCanter, which could be on Indian roads within the next 6-12 months. The eCanter will be assembled locally in India to cater to the growing demand in the e-commerce sector.

Globally, over 2,500 eCanters have been sold, with the trucks covering more than 8 million kilometers. India will become the third major market, after Japan and Europe, where this model will be assembled.

Also Read: ICRA Reports Positive Outlook for Road Logistics as E-Commerce Demand Rises

CMV360 Says

The PM E-Drive scheme is a strong push for India’s EV transition. With incentives for scrapping old trucks and a focus on expanding charging infrastructure, it provides the perfect environment for fleet modernization. Daimler’s entry into the electric truck segment further strengthens the push for a cleaner, greener transport sector.