Question : DEMAND OF DIESEL VEHICLES



(a) whether there is substantial increase in demand of diesel vehicles during the last three years and the current year;

(b) if so, the details thereof, year-wise;

(c) whether the demand of diesel vehicles in the country is due to availability of highly subdized diesel;

(d) if so, the details thereof along with the reaction of the Government thereof; and

(e) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to discourage manufacturing of diesel vehicles due to its adverse affect on environment in the country?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF HEAVY INDUSTRIES AND PUBLIC ENTERPRISES (SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)

(a) & (b): The information is being collected.

(c) & (d): No Madam. Subsidy on diesel is only one of the factors that make diesel cars more economical. Other factors are higher fuel efficiency of diesel cars and better performance in terms of higher torque and improved vehicle handling on the road.

Diesel vehicles play an important role in turning the wheels of the economy, reducing fuel consumption, contributing to energy security of the country, employment and growth.

(e): Government has no plan to specifically discourage the manufacturing of diesel vehicles. However, a number of integrated comprehensive efforts are required to mitigate the adverse effect on environment, caused by a number of factors. Government has launched the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020 to provide a common roadmap for hastening the manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles in the country. The ultimate objective of NEMMP 2020 is to enhance the energy security of the country and reduce the impact of transportation on environment through electric and hybrid vehicles by shifting away from all gasoline based transportations including diesel. Based on detailed stakeholders consultations and an in-depth study, the Government approved taking up of this initiative on a mission mode approach.