NITI Aayog, in partnership with IIM Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India, has launched the NITI GearShift Challenge as part of the e-FAST India initiative. This pioneering hackathon aims to foster innovative business models for the adoption of zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in India, addressing the nation’s pressing economic and environmental challenges.
Invitation for Innovation
The NITI GearShift Challenge is open to students, transport service practitioners, academics, and researchers. Participants are encouraged to develop innovative business models that address financial, technical, and operational challenges in the adoption of electric trucks. The challenge has garnered participation from e-FAST India knowledge partners, financial institutions, and industry forums.
Hackathon Structure
The hackathon will take place in two rounds:
- Round 1: Teams will submit their initial business models, focusing on a specific barrier—technical, operational, or financial—supported by high-level strategies and research.
- Round 2: Shortlisted teams will present detailed business models with an implementation roadmap, backed by both primary and secondary research. These proposals will be mentored by industry leaders to ensure practical and impactful solutions.
The Importance of India’s Freight Sector
India’s freight sector plays a crucial role in the economy, ensuring the smooth delivery of goods to over 1.4 billion people. With road freight accounting for 55% of India’s annual diesel consumption and nearly 40% of CO2 emissions from road transport, there is an urgent need to transition to more sustainable solutions. The electrification of freight transportation is seen as a key priority, offering a transformative opportunity to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance energy security.
The GearShift Challenge represents a significant step towards sustainable freight transportation in India. By tapping into the creativity and expertise of participants, the hackathon aims to generate practical solutions that will accelerate the adoption of zero-emission trucks, benefiting both the economy and the environment.
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