New Delhi: Times Network Digital hosted the Times Drive Green Conclave and Awards 2024 on the 27th of November in New Delhi. The event brought together car makers, industry experts, innovators, and policymakers to recognize winners in over 20 categories and discuss new ideas in electric mobility and sustainability.
At the event, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, unveiled the newly upgraded TimesDrive.in, a next-generation digital automotive platform featuring cutting-edge innovations like personalized recommendations powered by Generative AI and NLP, vehicle-buying assistance, doorstep test drives, a smart travel companion, and flexible financing options, empowering consumers to make informed decisions. Alongside delivering unmatched coverage of the Indian and global automotive industries, TimesDrive.in offers a section dedicated to alternate fuel vehicles with Times Drive Green, a pioneering initiative championing sustainable mobility. With in-depth news, expert insights, and intuitive tools, Times Drive Green educates and inspires consumers to embrace eco-friendly mobility solutions, shaping a cleaner, greener future.
Delivering the special address at the Times Drive Green Conclave and Awards 2024, Chief Guest, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said, "India is the fastest-growing economy in the world and our mission is to make India Atmanirbhar Bharat—and pursue sustainable development. With the transport sector accounting for 40% of air pollution and annual fossil fuel imports worth ₹22 lakh crores, transitioning to alternatives like biofuels is essential. CNG-powered vehicles are gaining popularity in regions like Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, with over 400 bio-CNG projects underway. I have supported the transition to electric and biofuels for tractors, as this shift is crucial for reducing pollution and saving costs. Several companies are working on electric tractors, as CNG-powered tractors are becoming popular. Biofuels like ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, and hydrogen are the fuels of the future.
Emphasizing on the rapidly growing automobile industry, he further added, “Indian automobile industry, valued at 22 lakh crores surpassed Japan to become the third-largest in the world. We aim to make India the number one automobile industry globally in the next five years. This key sector, India’s top exporter and largest GST contributor, has generated 4.5 crore jobs. Coupled with alternative fuels like bio-CNG and hydrogen, the industry's growth will reduce pollution and fossil fuel imports, boosting India's economy. Initiatives like municipal waste-to-bio-CNG projects, including in Nagpur, showcase the potential of a green economy to drive sustainability, create jobs, boost exports, and make India
Atmanirbhar Bharat. This green drive is key to making India stronger, not just economically, but in our commitment to sustainable progress.” Rohit Chadda, COO and President – Digital, Times Network said, “TimesDrive.in is the future of automobile ownership providing users with the latest news, reviews, and the best deals on cars and bikes. With an AI-powered smart assistant offering personalised buying recommendations, travel tips, and on-road support, the platform is going to make users’ journeys smarter and safer.”
In the digital era, publishers and content creators have emerged as influential voices, shaping perceptions and driving awareness across industries. Times Drive recognizes creators in the auto sector as key players in making green mobility accessible and relatable and will collaborate with them to take their content to a larger audience through its multiple platforms. Times Drive Green Conclave & Awards 2024 awarded the top auto creators, celebrating their role in inspiring change and championing the future of mobility.
The Times Drive Green Conclave & Awards 2024 (Auto Creator) Winners:
Upcoming Auto Creator: Arsh Jolly
Popular Auto Creator in North: Dayakaran Singh Dhaliwal
People’s Choice Award for Auto Influencer in North: Vivek Saini
Fastest Growing YouTuber: MD Danish
People’s Choice Award for Travel and Auto Family Drive Content Creator: Vikash Dayal
In-Depth Motorcycle Content Creator: Gagan Modi
Long-form Auto Content Creator: Harish Solanki
Female Travel Creator: Vishal Ahlawat
On Two Wheels: Nupur Kalra
Driving Tips and Tricks Creator: Tushar Bhalla
Extreme Superbike Creator: Karamjeet Singh
Superbike Speed Creator: Atharva
The successful conclave highlighted a shared commitment to advancing sustainable mobility and set the stage for celebrating trailblazers in India's green mobility revolution.