India is open to relaxing its localization requirements for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers and suppliers in exchange for incentives, following disruptions in rare earth supplies from China. The move comes as automakers struggle to meet the 50% localization target under the government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
Key Highlights:
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- Localization Requirement: India may ease the 50% domestic sourcing rule for EV makers.
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- Reason for Change: China’s restrictions on rare earth exports have disrupted supply chains.
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- Industry Response: Automakers are exploring alternatives, including importing fully-built motors.
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- PLI Scheme Impact: The relaxation could help manufacturers qualify for government incentives.
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- Government’s Stand: The Ministry of Heavy Industries is reviewing industry concerns but has not made a formal announcement.
The PLI scheme, designed to boost local manufacturing, has faced challenges due to global supply chain dependencies. Rare earth minerals are crucial for traction motors used in EVs, and China’s export curbs have forced Indian manufacturers to reconsider their sourcing strategies.
While the government has advised automakers to import fully-built motors or assemblies as a short-term solution, industry leaders are pushing for a long-term policy shift to ensure stability in EV production.
Source: Moneycontrol, E-Vehicle Info, PWOnlyIAS