The Supreme Court on Thursday advocated for greater adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) on Indian roads as it called for phasing out high-end luxury vehicles powered by petrol/ diesel.

The Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing a petition seeking implementation of government's policies aimed at promoting the purchase and use of EVs.

The Court said that since bigger EVs are also available in the market these days, the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles of similar size can be banned in a phased manner.

"One idea based on some experiences dealing with cases ... now in electric vehicles also, there are very good bigger cars introduced in the market; which can be as convenient as the other gas guzzlers which many VIPs and big companies are using. I am not naming anyone because I don’t want to cause any prejudice. Just think of imposing a ban on the very high end vehicles first of all. So it will not affect the common man. Because very small part of the Indian population can afford that," Justice Kant remarked.

In response to the Court's suggestion, Attorney General (AG) R Venkataramani said the government may be in support of such a move.

"The government is allied to that," he said, adding that 13 ministries are involved in the matter pertaining to promotion of EVs.

The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) for EVs has been filed by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation which was represented by advocate Prashant Bhushan.

Bhushan today submitted that initially cost of EVs was higher and then incentives were given to promote their use. He added that now lack of sufficient charging points is a bottleneck.

The Court said that once there are enough EVs on the roads, charging stations would also increase.

"These are market forces related issues. If (more) electric vehicles are introduced, charging stations will also be there. Existing petrol stations can be provided," Justice Kant said.

Venkataramani agreed that it requires attention.

"I had many meetings with them [authorities]. On implementation level, it needs a lot of attention," he said.

Meanwhile, the Court said that the relevant policies may need to be revisited again.

"It has been 5 years. The policy may have to be revisited," Justice Kant said.

AG said that a comprehensive report on notifications issued till date will be filed. Following this, the matter was posted for further hearing after four weeks.

"Ld. AG informs that there are 13 ministries who are actively participating in the project for promotion and adoption of electric vehicles. Post the matter after 4 weeks," the Court said in the order.

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