Push for EV Startup Inclusion in India's PLI Scheme

Ather Energy CEO Tarun Mehta advocates for including electric two-wheeler startups in the Production-Linked Incentive scheme, highlighting their innovation and investment potential. Mehta argues that eligibility norms pose a disadvantage to new-age EV manufacturers, calling for a scheme calibration to align with the current EV market landscape.

In a powerful appeal to policymakers, Tarun Mehta, CEO of Ather Energy, urged the inclusion of electric two-wheeler startups in the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. He expressed surprise over the current resistance to supporting these innovators.

Mehta highlighted that existing eligibility norms put emerging EV makers at a 13-16% cost disadvantage compared to established players. He argued for a recalibration of the scheme to reflect today's dynamic EV market, where startups are leading in innovation, technology, and market share.

Ather Energy has made substantial investments, committing Rs 2,000 crore to a new facility and employing thousands, aligning with PLI objectives. Mehta advocated for more flexible PLI criteria, focusing on localisation and R&D to prevent long-term market imbalance.