Oil companies in India are taking significant steps to promote electric vehicles (EVs) by offering charging facilities at over 15,000 petrol pumps across the country. This move aims to create an ecosystem that supports the growth of low-emission vehicles.
Indian Oil, the largest fuel retailer in India, leads the way with 8,760 filling stations that have EV chargers. This accounts for nearly a quarter of the total 32,000 pumps operated by Indian Oil.
Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) has 3,050 pumps with chargers, while Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) offers charging facilities at 2,640 pumps.
These state-run corporations—Indian Oil, HPCL, and BPCL—account for 95% of the pumps with chargers, with the private sector contributing the remaining percentage. Notably, Nayara Energy, backed by Rosneft, also plays a significant role in providing private sector pumps with EV chargers1.
The strategies for EV charging deployment vary among companies. Some focus on highways, while others target specific geographical areas. Additionally, battery swapping facilities have been introduced in many locations, primarily to serve two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Oil companies face delays in obtaining electricity connections from distribution companies. Some state distribution companies impose fixed charges, which goes against power ministry guidelines and affects the economics of EV charging. Furthermore, the availability of three-phase electricity connections is limited in certain places.
This concerted effort by oil companies aims to address the “chicken-and-egg” problem: without sufficient charging facilities, people may hesitate to adopt EVs, and without enough EVs on the road, charging infrastructure utilization remains limited. By expanding charging networks, they hope to boost EV sales and contribute to a greener future.
For instance, Indian Oil plans to install EV charging facilities at 10,000 fuel stations over the next three years as part of its commitment to sustainable energy solutions2. The transition toward cleaner mobility is gaining momentum, and these initiatives play a crucial role in shaping India’s transportation landscape.
Full story at Oil companies jump into EV charging; Offer facilities at over 15,000 petrol pumps - The Economic Times (indiatimes.com)
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