Enhancing Governance in the Electric Rickshaw Market: A Case Study of Jaipur

Background

The Rajasthan State Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2022 aims to achieve a 30 percent share of electric vehicles (EVs) in all new registrations within the three-wheeler category by 2030. This goal is pursued through incentivising the adoption of electric three-wheelers. Leveraging electric rickshaws’ inherently entrepreneurial and socially inclusive nature, a just socio-economic clean transition in the last mile connectivity segment could be achieved.

Electric rickshaws offer a clean and cost-effective solution for last-mile connectivity while also stimulating job creation and entrepreneurial endeavours. With the backing of appropriate regulations, they have the potential to develop a sustainable socio-economic landscape, paving the way for a transformative shift in mobility paradigms.

Ambiguities within regulations about licencing, permits, and operational guidelines pose formidable barriers to entry for operators. The inconsistent enforcement of these regulations exacerbates the problem, resulting in legal uncertainties and operational disruptions. Addressing the regulatory and standardisation issues is paramount to fostering a conducive environment for sustainable growth in the E-Rickshaw sector. As the e-rickshaw market expands, several challenges come to the forefront, warranting careful consideration and strategic planning.

What’s New

About the Project

    The proliferation of E-Rickshaws, especially in densely populated urban centres, has exacerbated traffic congestion and its associated challenges. Resolving the regulatory issues is paramount to unlocking the full potential of E-Rickshaws. Case-specific studies are essential to comprehensively grasp the potential benefits and challenges inherent in E-Rickshaw adoption.

    This project enables tailored interventions in local markets, facilitating the implementation of more effective strategies to address regulatory concerns and optimise the e-rickshaw ecosystem. The objective of this project is to bring forth regulations in the e-rickshaw market that ensure the growth of the stakeholders as well as the greening of last-mile connectivity without overburdening the city transport infrastructure.

    A comprehensive report will be prepared incorporating recommendations for different categories of stakeholders and policymakers for introducing a regulatory framework in this market to sustain a growth trajectory. The findings from the report will be presented to policymakers to get their support for the effective implementation of the suggested recommendations. The focus is developing a case study for Jaipur City that recommends stakeholders and local authorities introduce effective regulations while keeping the interests of commuters and operators intact.

Project Partner

Established in 2019, Battery Smart simplifies EV adoption, making it economical and easily accessible. With its first battery-swapping station launched in June 2020, it has scaled rapidly to become India’s largest battery-swapping network for electric two and three-wheelers.

Battery Smart’s tagline “Kabhi Rukna Nahi” embodies the promise of uninterrupted EV mobility through quick 2-minute battery swaps. Powered by a unique partner-led approach, Battery Smart leverages existing infrastructure by collaborating with local businesses for rapid station deployment across tier-1, tier-2, and tier-3 cities nationwide.

Publication

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Contact Us

Consumer Unity & Trust Society (CUTS)
D–217, Bhaskar Marg, Bani Park, Jaipur 302016, Rajasthan, India
Ph: +91 141 2282821, Fax: +91 141 2282485

Akash Sharma
Associate fellow
Email: asa@cuts.org
Phone number: 8431136597

Shivani Ilangovan
Research Associate
Email: sig@cuts.org
Phone number: 7738586958