In Brief
The Centre of Excellence for Zero Emission Trucking (CoEZET) has been established within the Department of Engineering Design at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in Chennai. Its primary objective is to expedite the introduction of Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) in the above 12T trucking segment in India, which covers vehicles running more than 60,000 kms annually.
CoEZET aims to become the primary resource hub for Zero Emission Trucking solutions, catering to all stakeholders both in India and internationally. In pursuit of this mission, CoEZET will undertake various projects to facilitate the adoption of ZEVs in India.
Focus Areas of CoEZET
Technical & Technological Aspects
Regulations & Standards Pertaining to the ZEV Ecosystem
Field Engagement – Through Pilots in selected corridors & continuous communication with the stakeholders
Skill Development & Reskilling / Just Transition
Policy Support
Background
India has committed to achieve a 45% reduction in Emission Intensity of the GDP by 2030 from 2005 level, with a target of attaining 50% of non-fossil fuel-based energy in its power capacity.
Reducing dependence on imported fuels is a top priority. Notably, road transport contributes to 20% of emissions, with long-distance heavy trucks being the most significant contributor at 35%-40% of the total emissions.
In simpler terms, if no measures are taken to address emissions from long-distance heavy trucking by 2050, they could represent up to 15% of the nation's total emissions. Additionally, at least 15% of imported fossil fuels will have to be allocated to heavy long-distance trucking.
Consequently, converting the trucking sector to Zero-Emission Trucking (ZET) becomes a top priority for India. This transformation will entail a combination of Battery Electric Trucks (BETs) and Fuel Cell Electric Trucks (FCETs), complemented by the greening of the national grid.