CET 2026 Slot 1 · MBA CET 2026 Attempt 1 Slot 1 · Verbal – Page 4

Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Choose the correct alternative from the given options based only on the information in the passage.

The global automobile industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation as electric vehicles (EVs) steadily move from the periphery to the mainstream. Driven by concerns over climate change, volatile fossil fuel prices, and tightening emission regulations, governments and manufacturers alike are increasingly investing in electric mobility. What was once considered a niche technology limited by high costs and inadequate infrastructure is now being positioned as the cornerstone of future transportation systems.

One of the most significant drivers of EV adoption is technological advancement in battery systems. Improvements in lithium-ion batteries have enhanced energy density, reduced charging time, and lowered production costs. Simultaneously, research into solid-state batteries promises even greater efficiency and safety. These innovations are gradually addressing the persistent concerns of range anxiety and long charging durations that once deterred potential buyers. However, battery production still relies heavily on rare minerals such as lithium and cobalt, raising questions about long-term sustainability and geopolitical dependence.

Infrastructure development plays an equally critical role in shaping the future of electric vehicles. Urban areas in many countries are witnessing a rapid expansion of public charging stations, while private players are experimenting with fast-charging networks and battery-swapping models. Nevertheless, the uneven distribution of charging infrastructure—particularly in rural and developing regions—continues to impede widespread adoption. Without a reliable and accessible charging ecosystem, consumer confidence in EVs may remain fragile.

Economic considerations further complicate the EV narrative. Although the total cost of ownership of electric vehicles is often lower due to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses, the initial purchase price remains relatively high. Government subsidies and tax incentives have temporarily bridged this gap, but their gradual withdrawal in some markets raises concerns about long-term affordability. Moreover, the transition to electric mobility threatens traditional automotive employment structures, necessitating large-scale reskilling of the workforce.

Despite these challenges, the future of electric vehicles appears increasingly inevitable. Major automakers have announced timelines to phase out internal combustion engines, while advancements in renewable energy integration strengthen the environmental case for EVs. The success of electric mobility, however, will ultimately depend on a coordinated approach involving technological innovation, infrastructure expansion, supportive policies, and consumer acceptance. Rather than a sudden revolution, the rise of electric vehicles is likely to be a gradual yet irreversible evolution.