Chandra revealed that Tata Motors is actively working to establish a used EV market, starting with 50-100 vehicles.
11 Nov 2025 | 3877 Views | By Shristi Ohri, Darshan Nakhwa
Tata Motors, India's dominant electric vehicle manufacturer, expressed confidence in achieving more than 30% EV penetration by 2030, while indicating that dependence on government subsidies will decrease as the market matures, according to statements made at the India EV Conclave 2025.
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO of Tata ...
This is an Autocar Pro Plus article. Subscribe to continue reading.
Tata Motors, India's dominant electric vehicle manufacturer, expressed confidence in achieving more than 30% EV penetration by 2030, while indicating that dependence on government subsidies will decrease as the market matures, according to statements made at the India EV Conclave 2025.
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, outlined the company's optimistic outlook for India's EV market, projecting that penetration will double from current levels by the end of the decade. Electric vehicle penetration in the passenger car segment stood at approximately 2.5% in 2024, indicating substantial room for growth.
Chandra acknowledged that government support has been instrumental in bridging the price gap between internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles, making EVs more accessible to Indian consumers. However, he emphasized that this support framework is designed as a temporary measure to jumpstart the market.
"Subsidy dependence can go down once there's 15-20% EV penetration," Chandra stated, suggesting that economies of scale and technological improvements will enable EVs to compete more effectively with conventional vehicles without significant government intervention.
Tata Motors maintained a 62% market share in India's electric passenger vehicle segment in 2024, though this represents a decline from 73% in 2023 due to increased competition. The company's portfolio includes the Nexon EV, Tigor EV, Tiago EV, Punch EV, Curvv EV and Harrier EV.
Market Evolution and Growth Trajectory
Reflecting on the market's evolution, Chandra noted that from 2020 to 2024, EVs experienced growth in multiples, establishing a strong foundation for the sector. However, he observed a temporary market slowdown due to confusion between EVs and hybrid vehicles, which has now been resolved.
"After that initial growth, it flattened for a while due to confusion between EVs and hybrids. But now with more EVs with fast charging and longer range options, sales have picked up again," Chandra explained, indicating that technological improvements and clearer market positioning have restored consumer confidence.
Identifying the path forward, Chandra emphasized that cost reduction in entry-segment EVs will drive the next stage of market expansion. This strategy aligns with India's price-sensitive automotive market, where affordability remains a primary purchase consideration.
The focus on entry-level EVs suggests Tata Motors' intent to democratize electric mobility, moving beyond early adopters and premium buyers to capture mass-market segments.
Used EV Market
Chandra raised concerns about the nascent state of India's used EV market, identifying it as a potential barrier to new vehicle sales. "In India, resale value is a sensitive issue. The demand has not been created on the used EV side. Used car players need to create the market," he stated.
To address this gap, Chandra revealed that Tata Motors is actively working to establish a used EV market, starting with 50-100 vehicles. This initiative aims to demonstrate the viability of pre-owned electric vehicles and build buyer confidence in EV residual values.
The development of a robust secondary market is considered crucial for first-time buyers who traditionally rely on the resale value of their vehicles when planning upgrades. The absence of established used EV pricing and certification standards has created uncertainty among potential buyers.
Despite acknowledging various challenges including infrastructure gaps and the need for cost reduction, Chandra expressed optimism about EV penetration doubling by 2030. His confidence stems from multiple factors including technological advancement, expanding charging infrastructure, and improving consumer awareness.
India's government has set an ambitious target for EVs to comprise 30% of total passenger vehicle sales by FY 2030, supported by incentive schemes and infrastructure development plans.
Chandra's projection of "more than 30%" EV penetration for Tata Motors by 2030 positions the company ahead of the national average, reflecting its first-mover advantage and comprehensive EV portfolio strategy. However, maintaining this leadership position will require continued innovation and market development efforts as competition intensifies from both domestic and international players.
The company's multi-pronged approach—combining product development, cost reduction, used market creation, and infrastructure support—indicates a comprehensive strategy to sustain its market leadership while driving overall sector growth toward the 2030 targets.
The India EV Conclave 2025 was presented by Chargezone, with Rosmerta Technologies as the Platinum Partner. The event is powered by IPG Automotive and Gulf Oil Lubricants India, with PTC serving as the Technology Partner. Associate Partners include Spark Minda, Radici Group, and Delta Electronics. The conclave also has trade partnerships with FADA, ASDC, and ICAT.