Accelerating the EV Revolution in India: Copper as a Key Enabler

India is on the cusp of a transformative shift toward electric mobility, with the electric vehicle (EV) revolution gaining unprecedented momentum. As the world grapples with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, India’s EV market sector is emerging as a vital component of the global effort to transition away from fossil fuels. This shift is not only reshaping the automotive industry but also driving the low-carbon transition across the country.

The growth in India’s EV market has been particularly notable, with EV sales crossing 2 million units in 2024, marking a 24% increase from the previous year. (Source) The surge is primarily driven by the two-wheeler and three-wheeler segments, which account for nearly 94% of total EV sales. This remarkable growth can be attributed to a combination of supportive government policies, increasing fuel prices, and growing consumer awareness of sustainable mobility solutions.

However, to sustain this momentum, India must address challenges related to battery production, infrastructure development and cost reductions. While discussions often focus on lithium-ion batteries and charging networks, one critical element goes unnoticed—copper, the backbone of EV infrastructure. The Electric Vehicles revolution is the need of the hour, and copper is at the heart of it. As a key component in EV motors, wiring, and power systems, copper plays an indispensable role in ensuring efficiency and durability. As India accelerates its EV transition, securing a stable copper supply will be vital for the industry’s long-term growth and the overall copper electrification for the transport sector.

Copper: The Backbone of India’s Electric Vehicles Transition (EV)

As the EV industry expands, the demand for copper is expected to increase significantly. The EV sector copper demand is driven by various factors, including the increasing copper intensity per vehicle. Beyond just EVs, the development of charging infrastructure, such as high-speed charging cables, charging stations, also relies heavily on copper. The demand for copper aligns with sustainability goals, as the metal’s high recyclability helps reduce environmental impact while ensuring a stable supply chain.

The Need for EVs in India

The rapid shift towards electric mobility in India is driven by several key factors:

Reducing environmental impact – Electric Vehicles lower emissions and help combat climate change.
Energy security – Less dependence on fossil fuels reduces import reliance.
Public health benefits – Lower air pollution leads to better respiratory Technological advancements – Improved battery technology and range make Electric Vehicles more viable.

Why Copper is Essential for EVs?

Copper is a superior material due to its high electrical and thermal conductivity, durability, and recyclability. These properties make copper indispensable for the EV ecosystem, playing a vital role in:

• Li-ion Batteries: Copper in batteries enhances performance and longevity.
• Powertrain (Motors & Controllers) : Copper in motors ensures efficient power delivery.
• Wiring Harness: High-voltage cabling systems rely on copper for optimal conductivity.
• Charging Infrastructure:  Copper in charging infrastructure, including charging copper cables, enables fast and efficient charging.

The Bharat E-Mobility Auto Expo 2025 is a testament to India’s EV revolution, where all displayed models were electric vehicles. This event highlighted India’s readiness to adopt sustainable mobility solutions and showcased copper’s crucial role in powering the future of transportation.

ICA India’s Role in Advancing E-Mobility

At the International Copper Association India (ICA India), we actively create awareness about copper’s role in accelerating the EV revolution. Our initiatives include:
Technical research & policy recommendations to support EV adoption.
Public awareness campaigns on the importance of copper in Electric Vehicles.
The Right to Charge Campaign, ensuring EV owners have access to reliable charging facilities.

One of ICA India’s landmark initiatives was its participation in the Bharat E-Mobility Auto Expo 2025. ICA India and its members— Adani Kutch Copper Ltd, Hindalco, and Vedanta Sterlite Copper showcased India’s robust copper production capabilities. Our mock transparent EV car exhibit attracted over 15,000 visitors, helping them understand copper’s indispensable role in EVs, particularly in thermal management and power electronics.

Notable dignitaries, including Mr. Nitin Gadkari (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways), Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy (Ministry of Heavy Industries), Dr. Hanif Qureshi, IPS (Additional Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries), and Shri Pankaj Jain, IAS (Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas), engaged with our exhibit. Their support affirmed copper’s significant role in powering India’s sustainable transportation future and driving copper demand growth in the automotive industry.

Copper: The Driving Force Behind India’s Electric Vehicle Revolution

As India accelerates towards an EV-driven future, copper remains at the heart of this transformation, enabling clean, efficient and sustainable mobility. Investing in copper-based solutions enhances safety, reliability and the efficiency of Electric Vehicles, further accelerating India’s transition to a greener future. The increasing copper intensity in EVs is a testament to its importance in achieving efficiency gains and supporting the overall electrification of the transport sector.

Recognizing copper’s vital role across sectors—including construction, transportation, infrastructure, defence and healthcare—ICA India is committed to driving awareness of copper’s benefits. Through industry collaborations, research, and initiatives, we are working towards a future where safe, reliable, and sustainable EV infrastructure becomes a reality for all.

India’s Electric Vehicles revolution has already begun. Events like Bharat E-Mobility Auto Expo 2025 prove that the transition is not just a vision but a present reality. The journey ahead is exciting and copper is the enabler that will drive India towards its zero-emission future, supporting the broader low-carbon transition.

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