Impose green cess on polluting vehicles to support EVs: SMEV

Electric vehicle makers’ body SMEV Monday called for imposition of ‘green cess’ on polluting vehicles besides seeking putting of EVs in priority lending sector to accelerate creation of a robust ecosystem.

In its Budget wish list, the Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) also asked the government for a dedicated allocation for ‘clean air’ campaign, which could be integrated under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

“We strongly advocate the imposition of a notional green cess on the polluting vehicles and use it to accelerate electric mobility,” SMEV Director General Sohinder Gill said in a statement.