The shift towards zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in India represents a monumental stride in the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. This transition is poised to address energy security and mitigate severe urban air pollution, which plagues many of India’s cities. It will also bring forth a paradigm shift for the Indian automotive sector, which contributes 7.1% to the national GDP and employs around 37 million people directly and indirectly. The introduction of ZETs brings about a new demand for specialized skills in the manufacturing and maintaining electric powertrains, batteries, and advanced electronics. Moreover, given the disaggregated nature of the trucking sector in India and the financial challenges faced by truck drivers and mechanics, the shift to ZETs should not exacerbate any existing inequalities.

This necessitates a comprehensive approach addressing the shift’s social and economic dimensions. It is crucial to ensure that the stakeholders in the current fossil fuel-dependent trucking industry are not left behind. Therefore, a just transition for the trucking ecosystem is required, ensuring that the workforce in the automotive manufacturing industry and the services and after-sales market are adequately equipped to adapt to these changes.

In light of these needs, Climate Policy Initiative will launch its report titled ‘Just Transition to Zero-emission Trucking in India’. The report underscores the importance of a fair and equitable shift towards zero-emission trucks, assesses the impact on trucking sector stakeholders, and identifies the interventions required from the government to support skilling requirements.