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Uttar Pradesh has placed 10th nationally in NITI Aayog's India Electric Mobility Index 2024, scoring above the national average, yet faces significant gaps in charging readiness and incentives. The state's UP EVMMP 2022 policy, effective until October 2027, targets a 3 km by 3 km charging grid in cities and stations every 25 km on expressways and highways, though progress toward these infrastructure goals remains slow. Lucknow aims for 100 per cent electric public transport by 2030.

Why it matters: Uttar Pradesh's ambitious grid targets and public transport electrification deadline signal substantial future procurement opportunities, but the slow rollout of charging infrastructure highlights execution risk for CPOs and suppliers bidding on state tenders. The policy framework offers a clear roadmap for network deployment, yet limited private uptake and incentive gaps may constrain near term demand and project viability.

Somerset Council has expanded its Digital Slinky demand responsive transport service with seven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter based Cityline minibuses from EVM, comprising six diesel and one electric vehicle. The 16-seater low-floor minibuses feature wheelchair space, wide double-door entrance, driver information systems, digital destination displays and integrated ticketing, and will operate in Taunton and Wellington. The Cityline model has been in service with councils and public transport operators for over 12 years.

Why it matters: The procurement signals continued UK local authority investment in accessible demand responsive transport, with electric vehicles forming a small but growing share of new fleet additions. Operators and charging infrastructure providers should note the gradual electrification of council minibus fleets, though diesel remains dominant in this deployment.