Electric Vehicle (EV) policy introduced

Transport Ministry achieves significant milestone:
Sri Lanka transitioning from fossil fuel-based to energy-based transport systems :

The Transport and Highways Ministry achieved a significant milestone with the introduction of the Electric Vehicle (EV) policy, supported by the UN ESCAP yesterday.

The policy launch, led by Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana and Secretary S. C. Mayadunna, marks a crucial step for Sri Lanka in transitioning from fossil fuel-based to energy-based transport systems.

The Sri Lankan government has been actively exploring opportunities to embrace electric mobility, backed by various initiatives, policies, and extensive research. Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana emphasized the need for a comprehensive, long-term vision for an Electric Vehicle Policy, with legal backing. Such a document would unite all aspects related to electric mobility, providing a national-level roadmap and integrating standalone efforts into a collaborative initiative.

With input from public and private sector stakeholders, the Transport Ministry has meticulously drafted a comprehensive electric vehicle policy, a pivotal approach for Sri Lanka’s growing economy. Looking ahead, the year 2024 has been declared as the “E-mobility year” in Sri Lanka under the Minister’s vision.

During the launch, there was a strong endorsement for taking this policy into the implementation phase with the support of related ministries and private sector stakeholders. Emphasis was placed on collaboration and partnerships to make a meaningful difference. In March 2024, the Transport Ministry plans to host an exhibition and conference to exchange global ideas, showcase local initiatives, and attract investors to partner in scaling up national enterprises.This global initiative aims to promote sustainable and efficient public transportation systems, highlighting the importance of reducing individual vehicle usage, minimizing traffic congestion, and mitigating the environmental impact of transportation.

In a broader context, achieving the 2024 goal of transitioning to EVs necessitates more ambitious and comprehensive policy portfolios. Market leaders and followers alike must commit to implementing and strengthening regulatory instruments. Examples include the European Union’s CO2 emissions regulation, China’s New Energy Vehicles (NEV) mandate, and California’s Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate.Immediate efforts should focus on making EVs competitive, gradually phasing out purchase subsidies as sales expand. This can be achieved through differentiated taxation of vehicles and fuels based on environmental performance, reinforced by regulatory measures supporting the clean vehicle industry.

For the long term, unlocking the full potential of EVs to reduce vehicle emissions requires integration into power systems, decarbonization of electricity generation, widespread deployment of recharging infrastructure, and sustainable battery manufacturing.

While over 20 countries have announced the full phase-out of internal combustion engine (ICE) car sales, and more than 120 countries have committed to economy-wide net-zero emissions, policy attention and actions must extend to other transport modes, particularly commercial vehicles. Medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses, accounting for a disproportionate impact on energy use, air pollution, and CO2 emissions, require targeted policies to drive progress and innovation.

The post Electric Vehicle (EV) policy introduced appeared first on DailyNews.