India announces initiative to promote hybrid and EVs

The Indian government is setting up a new body to help companies develop hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs), reports the Hindustan Times. The National Electric Mobility Mission (NEMM) will support companies in the development of batteries for such vehicles. Ministry of Heavy Industries Joint Secretary Ambuj Sharma said that there are several players in India making different kinds of EVs, but a lack of infrastructure to charge these vehicles and the high prices of hybrid cars have prevented growth of the segment so far. NEMM will help electric vehicle makers to develop technology to lower the cost of batteries, which comprises a third of the total product price. (September 29, 2010)