India's mobility transformation must be grounded in pragmatism, technological diversity, and alignment with the country's energy realities, stated Stephane Deblaise, CEO of Renault Group India, while outlining a comprehensive New Energy Vehicle (NEV) roadmap for the coming decade.

"Cleaner mobility is not just a choice; it is a necessity," he remarked during the ETAuto EV Conclave 2025.

Multi-fuel approach in the passenger-vehicle market

Deblaise highlighted strong momentum in India's passenger-vehicle market, where EVs now account for close to 4% of sales, a significant increase from just a few years ago. Hybrids are also gaining traction and are projected to reach an estimated 1.7 million units by 2030.

"India is not pursuing a single solution; it is building a mosaic of technologies," he emphasised, adding that EVs, hybrids, CNG, and flex-fuel vehicles collectively contribute to meaningful reductions in CO2 emissions.

Lessons from global markets

Japan, China, and Europe have demonstrated the value of hybrids as a bridge technology.

In Japan, hybrids currently constitute more than 60% of new car sales, while China's NEV expansion includes significant uptake of plug-in hybrids.

Even in Europe, which is home to the world's most ambitious EV mandates, hybrids are presently outpacing BEVs in consumer demand. "Consumers globally are pragmatic. They seek solutions that fit their lives today, not merely promises for tomorrow," he observed, noting that Indian consumers are similar, as hybrids already represent approximately 8% of the domestic market.

Deblaise emphasised that engineering realities must remain central to policy design and product strategy. A large 100 kWh battery, he noted, weighs nearly 600 kilograms, comparable to "carrying a quintal of coal" within a vehicle.

This impacts cost, efficiency, dynamics, and sustainability. Tank-to-wheel emission comparisons further clarify the path forward: conventional ICE vehicles emit around 100 g/km of CO2, hybrids approximately 75 g/km, plug-in hybrids less than 50 g/km, and BEVs produce zero emissions at the point of use.

"BEVs are the destination, but hybridisation is the road that leads there," he stated.

Renewable intermittency and limited storage capacity highlight the need for a balanced approach. "As India's energy mix evolves steadily, its mobility mix must similarly integrate EVs with hybrids, CNG, and clean-fuel infrastructure," he further added.

Deblaise urged the industry to remain pragmatic and realistic in planning the next phase of the transition.

With multiple powertrain pathways converging towards a common objective, the overarching goal remains clear: a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for the next generation.