In the bustling lanes of India’s urban landscapes, two-wheelers are more than just a mode of transport; they are the lifeblood of mobility and economic growth. As the world grapples with sustainability challenges, the Indian two-wheeler industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and a recent study sheds light on the intricate dance between regulations and technological innovation driving this change.
Navnith Raj S.N., a researcher from the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences in Bangalore, has conducted a comprehensive comparative study published in the Journal of Engineering Sciences. The study, titled “A Comparative Study of Sustainable Production and Consumption Practices in the Indian Two-Wheeler Sector,” offers a dual-lens perspective, integrating regulatory evolution and technological adoption to assess sustainable practices among major industry players like Bajaj Auto, TVS Motors, Hero MotoCorp, Ather Energy, and Ola Electric.
The study highlights the critical role of policy milestones such as the BS-VI emission norms, renewable energy incentives, and Electric Vehicle (EV) promotion schemes in shaping the industry’s trajectory. These regulations are not just bureaucratic hurdles but catalysts for technological advancements in battery technology, digital manufacturing, and circular economy initiatives.
“While some firms have achieved operational emission reductions of up to 40%, persistent barriers including high capital costs, regulatory inconsistencies, and workforce skill shortages limit broader adoption,” Navnith Raj S.N. notes. This observation underscores the complex interplay between policy, technology, and industry capabilities.
The study’s novelty lies in its structured framework that connects regulatory and technological trajectories to firm-level outcomes. By identifying synergies, gaps, and best practices, it offers actionable strategies for aligning policy with industry needs. Recommendations include stricter compliance enforcement, accelerated EV infrastructure development, and expanded circular economy practices.
For the energy sector, the implications are profound. The shift towards sustainability in the two-wheeler industry could drive demand for cleaner energy solutions, from renewable energy sources to advanced battery technologies. This transition is not just about reducing emissions but also about creating new commercial opportunities and fostering innovation.
As the Indian two-wheeler sector stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, this research provides a roadmap for balancing industrial competitiveness, stakeholder interests, and sustainability goals. It serves as a reminder that the path to a sustainable future is paved with collaboration, innovation, and a keen understanding of the regulatory landscape.
In the words of Navnith Raj S.N., “The study’s insights contribute a roadmap for balancing industrial competitiveness, stakeholder interests, and sustainability goals in one of the world’s fastest-growing mobility sectors.” This roadmap could very well shape the future of the two-wheeler industry and, by extension, the broader energy sector.