Electric vehicles have skyrocketed in significance over the past decade, particularly in light of global issues like climate change and pollution. EVs require no fossil fuels to run, and therefore emit zero harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. To promote the adoption of EVs, September 9 was designated as ‘World EV Day’ six years ago by sustainability-focused companies Green.TV and ABB Group, and is recognised worldwide.
On the sixth iteration of World EV Day, let’s take a look at some of Autocar India’s most notable achievements in the all-electric mobility space.
Mercedes-Benz EQC clean energy charging
Hydro, wind and solar energy were the only means of charging we used
In 2021, we set out on a journey in the Mercedes-Benz EQC to explore how truly "green" EVs can be when powered by renewable energy only; at present, coal is the primary source of energy production. We departed from the Mercedes-Benz facility in Chakan with a full charge, heading to Tata Power’s Khopoli hydroelectric plant, Agaswadi wind farm and Mulshi solar farm.
Along the way, we investigated clean power sources – hydro, wind and solar – that could sustainably fuel EVs in India. While the EQC couldn’t be charged directly from the hydro grid since it mixes with the main grid, we were able to charge the SUV via a 15A plug at Tata Power. However, we did tap charging power directly from wind turbines and solar panels for the EQC. Ultimately, this trip showed us that our EVs could soon be truly emissions-free – not just at the tailpipe, but across the entire power chain.
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