Global E-Mobility Framework

Policy makers should broaden their focus and actions to include different modes of transport, in particular commercial vehicles, light commercial vehicles, medium and heavy-duty trucks and buses. These modes have a growing and disproportionate impact on energy consumption, air pollution and CO2 emissions.

This article will primarily:

• identify critical issues for the federal government in developing E-Mobility policies
• provide examples of regulatory interventions and a policy landscape.

We will then present examples of actions taken by governments in different countries to promote the development of e-mobility policies.

Brazil in the early stages of an E-Mobility Framework:

Incentives:

In 2020, the Brazilian government launched a new program called Rota 2030, which offers tax incentives to automakers that invest in the development of more efficient and sustainable vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.

Charging infrastructure:

The Brazilian government has also announced plans to develop a national network of charging infrastructure for EVs. The program, called ‘Programa de Mobilidade Elétrica’, aims to install more than 30,000 charging points across the country by 2022.

Public transport:

The Brazilian government has also encouraged the use of electric buses in public transport. In 2020, the Ministry of Infrastructure announced a plan to replace all diesel-powered buses in the country’s urban public transport fleet with electric buses by 2040.

Research and development:

The Brazilian government has also invested in research and development for E-Mobility, including the development of new battery technologies, electric motors, and charging infrastructure solutions.

Urban landscape in Brazil. Unsplash (2018)

Tokyo, the most advanced city in E-Mobility?

Tokyo has one of the most advanced E-Mobility frameworks in the world, with a comprehensive set of policies and initiatives aimed at promoting the adoption of EVs and reducing carbon emissions.

Incentives:

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government offers a range of incentives to encourage the purchase and use of EVs, including subsidies for the purchase of EVs and the installation of charging equipment.

Charging infrastructure:

Tokyo has an extensive network of charging infrastructure, including more than 2,200 public and a growing number of private charging stations. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has also launched initiatives to promote the installation of charging infrastructure in public spaces and private buildings.

Public transport:

Tokyo has a highly developed public transport system, with a large fleet of electric and hybrid buses, trains, and other modes of transport. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is also promoting the use of EVs for taxi and delivery services.

EV in Tokyo. Unsplash (2020)

Mexico takes actions for the transition to E-Mobility:

Mexico has adopted a number of measures to encourage the transition to E-Mobility, including:

Tax exemption:

Electric and hybrid vehicles have tax exemptions in some Mexican states, such as exemption from Vehicle Tenure or Use Tax in Mexico and Jalisco.

Charging infrastructure:

The government has established a plan to expand EV charging infrastructure, with 2,500 charging stations to be installed in the country by 2024.

Public-private partnerships:

The government has established public-private partnerships to promote the transport electrification, such as working with energy companies for installation.

Trolleybus in Mexico City. BNamericas (2016)

Course Mascot. PEM Motion (2023)

How is Kenya making the transition to E-Mobility?

Tax exemption:

The Kenyan government has exempted EVs from taxation to encourage their adoption. It has also reduced the import tax on hybrid vehicles and electric motors.

Tax incentives:

Tax incentives have been introduced for EV manufacturers and their components to encourage local production and job creation.

Charging infrastructure development:

The government plans to develop a nationwide EV charging infrastructure. This includes the installation of charging stations in public areas, car parks, and major roads.

Renewable energy policy:

Kenya has adopted a renewable energy policy that targets production from renewable sources, including hydropower, solar, and wind. This is critical to driving the transition to E-Mobility, as EVs require a clean source of energy to operate.

Public transport. Unsplash (2019)

Conclusion:

Policies to promote E-Mobility, implemented in different parts of the Global South, have proven to be an effective strategy to address environmental and transport challenges in the region.

These policies have promoted the adoption of EVs through financial incentives, charging infrastructure, and favorable regulations. In addition, they have fostered innovation and job creation in the E-Mobility industry.

Although there are still challenges to overcome, these policies have laid the foundation for a successful transition to a more sustainable and cleaner transport system in the Global South.