Tata Motors and Mahindra Oppose Hybrid Vehicles in Government Fleets, Advocate for Full EV Adoption

In a significant move that reflects the evolving dynamics of India’s electric mobility ambitions, leading automakers Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have voiced strong opposition to the inclusion of hybrid vehicles in government vehicle fleets. According to recent reports and internal government communications, these industry giants are lobbying the Indian government to exclude hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) from official procurement lists, urging a more aggressive transition toward fully electric vehicles (EVs).

This development comes in the wake of a proposal by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which recommended allowing strong hybrid vehicles to be included in government fleets, particularly in pollution-affected areas like Delhi-NCR. The intent behind this recommendation was to reduce vehicular emissions quickly while providing flexibility in adoption methods. However, EV leaders argue that hybrids are only a half-measure, and their inclusion could dilute the impact and momentum of India’s full electrification goals.

Both Tata and Mahindra are deeply invested in the EV sector, having rolled out successful electric models like the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Tiago EV, and the Mahindra XUV400. Their argument is that hybrids, which still rely on internal combustion engines, do not align with India’s vision of net-zero emissions by 2070. From a policy perspective, they believe incentivizing or including hybrids in government fleets sends mixed signals to the industry and consumers alike, potentially slowing down the adoption of 100% electric vehicles.

Moreover, the EV manufacturers emphasize the long-term cost efficiency and environmental benefits of going fully electric. Unlike hybrids that consume fuel, electric vehicles offer a cleaner alternative and reduce dependence on imported crude oil—an economic and ecological concern for India. Additionally, EV charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, making full electrification more viable than it was even two years ago.

This standoff between automakers and policymakers underscores a broader debate on how India should shape its clean mobility future. While some stakeholders advocate for a flexible, technology-neutral approach that includes hybrids as a transitional solution, others—like Tata and Mahindra—are pushing for a bold, direct leap into full electrification.

With India targeting 30% electric vehicle adoption by 2030 and various incentives under FAME II and state EV policies, this issue is likely to see more deliberation in the coming months. How the government responds to this call from two of the country’s biggest EV advocates could have a profound impact on the direction of India’s sustainable transportation strategy.