Ola Electric, India's leading pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer, has achieved a crucial milestone by securing Production Linked Incentive (PLI) certification for its Generation 3 (Gen 3) scooter portfolio. The certification, granted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, makes Ola Electric eligible for incentives ranging between 13% and 18% of the Determined Sales Value (DSV) of its qualifying sales until 2028. This is expected to significantly enhance Ola Electric's profitability beginning the second quarter of fiscal year 2025-26.
Key Highlights of Ola's PLI Certification and Growth Strategy
The certification encompasses seven Gen 3 scooter variants including S1 Pro 3 kWh, S1 Pro 4 kWh, S1 Pro+ 4 kWh, S1 X 2 kWh, S1 X 3 kWh, S1 X 4 kWh, and S1 X+ 4 kWh—the models that contribute the majority of sales.
Ola’s Generation 2 scooter portfolio also holds PLI certification, strengthening the company's competitive positioning.
The PLI certification will directly improve cost structure and margins, powering Ola Electric’s efforts to achieve EBITDA positivity by FY26.
Alongside PLI benefits, Ola recently launched new variants such as S1 Pro Sport and Roadster X+ featuring advanced Bharat 4680 battery cells, signaling ongoing investment in technology and product innovation.
About the Production Linked Incentive Scheme
The government’s PLI scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports by providing financial incentives based on incremental production and sales volume.
Under the auto PLI scheme, companies receive incentives computed as a percentage of their DSV, rewarding scale and localization of production.
This program supports India’s vision of becoming a global EV manufacturing hub and encourages technological advancement in green mobility.
Strategic Impact for Ola Electric
Securing PLI certification bolsters Ola Electric’s manufacturing ecosystem centered around its Krishnagiri Gigafactory, fostering vertical integration and cost efficiencies.
The scheme enables Ola to price competitively while safeguarding margins.
PLI incentives are expected to accelerate operational profitability starting Q2 FY26.
The alignment of government incentives with Ola’s product portfolio signals strong government-industry collaboration.
Broader Industry Implications
Ola Electric’s certification marks a milestone for India’s EV sector, potentially encouraging other players to expand domestic manufacturing operations and benefit from PLI support.
This catalytic effect can reduce imports, generate employment, and strengthen supply chains.
The PLI scheme complements existing initiatives like FAME II and Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme, creating a holistic policy framework.
Looking Forward: Innovation and Market Expansion
Ola’s product launches focusing on high-capacity batteries aim to cater to varied consumer preferences and enhance market share.
Scaling production of PLI-certified models aligns with Ola’s aggressive growth strategy.
Expansion of charging infrastructure and customer outreach will complement vehicle sales growth.
Conclusion: Accelerating India’s EV Journey
With PLI certification and new product launches, Ola Electric is well poised for improved profitability and market leadership. This milestone represents a breakthrough in India’s pursuit of sustainable and affordable electric transportation, benefiting consumers and supporting environmental goals alike.
Sources: Ola Electric Press Release, Automotive Research Association of India, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Economic Times, Moneycontrol
