MUMBAI, March 9th – In a bright spark of innovation and inclusivity, the Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC) is revving up its engines in partnership with the Indian government and Maharashtra’s Social Justice Department. The powerhouse team is on a mission to illuminate the path for 50,000 women, empowering them through the PM EV2Solar Project for Social Justice. This electrifying initiative promises access to solar energy and electric vehicles (EVs) at a shockingly affordable 30% of the sticker price, with a hefty 70% of funding support plugged in through state schemes.
At a dazzling event in Mumbai, the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, flipped the switch on this partnership with ASDC, setting the streets abuzz. “Driving change one vehicle at a time, we’re wheeling out opportunities to socially disadvantaged women,” declared Athawale, signaling a green light for mobility and economic opportunities through government schemes.
The Solar2EV initiative is more than just a ride; it’s a journey towards a brighter, more inclusive future. “Embarking on this solar-powered voyage, we envision a future where innovation meets opportunity, powering up the lives of the marginalized. This initiative drives home our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development, empowering communities across Maharashtra and beyond,” charged Union Minister Athawale with enthusiasm.
Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President of ASDC, shone a light on the council’s dedication to women’s empowerment. “ASDC is in the driver’s seat, steering societal change, especially for women, through our Solar2EV initiative. By fueling skill development and engaging corporates, we’re not only navigating opportunities in Maharashtra’s burgeoning EV and solar sectors but also ensuring women lead the charge in this transformative journey.”
The partnership is calling on Corporate India to jump on the bandwagon and contribute CSR funds towards establishing solar-to-EV connections throughout Maharashtra. By doing so, the initiative aims to supercharge job opportunities in the e-commerce sector’s first and last-mile mobility segments, inviting major players like Amazon, Flipkart, and ride-hailing services to drive forward with social justice funds for innovative solutions.
A task force, with Social Justice Commissioner Om Prakash Bhakoria and Randheer Singh, a former director at Niti Aayog at the helm, will focus on powering socially sustainable products through ASDC’s skill development programs. “Such initiatives are crucial for charging up equitable opportunities among socially and economically disadvantaged groups,” highlighted Bhakoria.
The Union Minister also kick-started a Solar2EV- Women’s EV electric mobility rally, marking the launch pad of the initiative. The project showcases a fleet of vehicles from iconic brands, all geared up to support this cause, including big names like PMI Electromobility and Citroen C2 fleet cars from Stellantis, showcasing a collective drive towards a clean energy future.
RevFin’s Founder & CEO, Sameer Agarwal, shared his electrifying insights, “Women are taking the driver’s seat in EV financing, shifting gears beyond traditional roles. Our Stree Shakti program is a testament to our commitment to empowering women, urging them to take control of their financial futures for a brighter, electrified horizon.”
With Omega Seiki Mobility throwing in 3,000 electric E3W Stream City vehicles into the mix, Founder Uday Narang expressed, “We’re driving towards a future powered by NariShakti, celebrating the strength and resilience of women. This initiative is our pledge to a more inclusive and sustainable future, propelled by the indomitable spirit of women.”
The Solar2EV project, merging with social justice schemes, is set to generate 1 lakh new jobs, electrifying the cargo delivery scene with EVs. “This is a game-changer for gig workers and urban mobility,” stated Randheer Singh from Forsee Consulting, highlighting the initiative’s potential to energize economic growth and create a sustainable future.
So, as the Solar2EV initiative shifts into high gear, it’s clear that the future is looking bright – and it’s powered by solar energy, electric vehicles, and the unstoppable force of 50,000 women ready to drive change.
