PM Modi cuts convoy, shifts to EVs as fuel-saving drive begins amid Iran war energy crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently cut the size of his security convoy and ordered the inclusion of electric vehicles wherever possible, setting the tone for the government’s fuel-saving push amid the Iran war-led global energy crisis..

Prime Minister’s convoy was reduced while retaining all essential security components mandated under SPG protocol, according to ANI. The changes were implemented during his visits to Gujarat and Assam soon after his address in Hyderabad. Sources said he has also asked for electric vehicles to be integrated into the convoy without making fresh purchases.

The move comes a day after Modi appealed to citizens to cut fuel consumption, use public transport and avoid buying gold for at least one year to help cushion the impact of global energy disruptions linked to the Iran war.

Modi’s convoy typically includes pilot and escort vehicles, his official car, a backup vehicle, ambulance support and a communications unit.

Convoy cuts ripple across states

Soon after Modi’s appeal, Bhajan Lal Sharma and Mohan Yadav announced similar steps in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The Madhya Pradesh government said the chief minister’s convoy would be reduced from 13 vehicles to eight until further orders, while vehicle rallies during official tours would be stopped entirely. In Rajasthan, Sharma cut his convoy from 15 vehicles to five.

PM’s call for austerity

Addressing a public gathering recently, Modi said India must adopt immediate measures to minimize the fallout of the global energy crisis triggered by the Iran-US conflict and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route that carries nearly 20% of the world’s oil trade.

“I appeal to every citizen of my country to reduce the use of petrol and diesel as much as possible. Use the metro, electric buses and public transport, and promote carpooling,” he said.

He also called for wider adoption of work-from-home policies in both government and private sectors, saying digital tools should be used more extensively to reduce unnecessary travel.

Modi further urged people to delay gold purchases to help preserve India’s foreign exchange reserves and reiterated his call for “Vocal for Local,” asking citizens to prioritize locally made products over imports.