The NITI GearShift Challenge is a pioneering hackathon that aims to drive innovative business models for the widespread adoption of zero-emission trucks in India and address environmental challenges through sustainable freight transportation
NITI Aayog, in collaboration with IIM Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India, announced the launch of 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.
The NITI GearShift Challenge is seeking innovative business models from students, transport service practitioners, academics, and researchers to address the financial, technical, and operational challenges in the adoption of electric trucks. The program has gained participation from e-FAST India knowledge partners, financial institutions, and industry forums.
The hackathon consists of two rounds. In Round 1, teams will submit their initial business models addressing a specific barrier—technical, operational, or financial—supported by high-level strategies and research. Shortlisted teams in Round 2 will present detailed business models with an implementation roadmap backed by both primary and secondary research. Industry leaders will mentor these proposals to ensure practical and impactful solutions.
India's freight sector is crucial to the economy, ensuring the smooth delivery of goods to over 1.4 billion people. However, with road freight accounting for 55 percent of India's annual diesel consumption and nearly 40 percent of CO2 emissions from road transport, the need for a transition to more sustainable solutions is urgent. The electrification of freight transportation, with electric trucks at the forefront, offers a transformative opportunity to cut emissions, enhance the quality of air, and augment energy security.
The GearShift Challenge represents a significant step towards sustainable freight transportation in India. By leveraging the creativity and expertise of participants, the hackathon aims to generate practical solutions that will accelerate the adoption of zero-emission trucks. This not only benefits the economy but also has the potential to significantly reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance energy security, inspiring a brighter, cleaner future for India.