Amazon surpasses EV deployment goals in India

Amazon announced that it has surpassed its target of deploying 10,000 electric vehicles (EVs) in its India delivery fleet, achieving the milestone in October 2024, over a year ahead of schedule. The EVs are currently operational in cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, covering a network that spans 500 cities from Leh to Gangtok.  

This accomplishment marks a significant step in Amazon’s efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across its global operations by 2040 under its Climate Pledge initiative. By replacing conventional diesel-powered vehicles with EVs, the company has taken a measurable step toward reducing carbon emissions in India’s logistics sector.  

Amazon has also begun testing long-range electric heavy trucks on the Bengaluru-Chennai highway as part of The Climate Pledge’s Laneshift Initiative. This project, involving key industry participants like Ashok Leyland, Billion-E, and ChargeZone, is focused on exploring the potential for electric freight transportation over long distances.  

In collaboration with Indian vehicle manufacturers, charging infrastructure providers, and delivery service partners, Amazon has worked to expand its electric fleet and support the adoption of EVs. The company has partnered with manufacturers such as Volvo Eicher, Tata Motors, Mahindra Electric, Ashok Leyland, and Altigreen to develop custom EVs tailored to its logistics needs. It has also facilitated affordable financing options for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and trucks through partnerships with fintech firms, NBFCs, and institutions such as the Small Industries Development Bank of India.  

Amazon has actively engaged with government initiatives like Shoonya and NITI Aayog’s e-FAST program to promote e-mobility. These efforts align with India’s broader objectives of addressing environmental challenges and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.  

Abhinav Singh, Vice President of Operations at Amazon India, highlighted the importance of transitioning to zero tailpipe emission vehicles to meet national sustainability goals and reduce dependence on diesel freight. Singh emphasized the challenges the logistics industry faces, such as limited charging infrastructure and range anxiety, and expressed Amazon’s commitment to working with stakeholders to develop practical solutions.