Delhi's Draft EV Policy 2.0 Proposes Major Shift Towards Electric Mobility
The Delhi Government has unveiled a transformative draft policy that could fundamentally reshape the vehicle landscape in India's capital. The proposed Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 contains a groundbreaking provision that may prohibit new registrations of petrol-powered two-wheelers starting from April 1, 2028.
Focus on Two-Wheelers as Key to Electrification
This strategic move places two-wheelers at the very heart of Delhi's ambitious electrification agenda. Bikes and scooters currently dominate the city's roads, constituting the largest segment of vehicles in daily use. Their high utilization rates make them significant contributors to urban air pollution, which has prompted this targeted policy intervention.
From the fiscal year 2029 onward, only electric two-wheelers would be eligible for new registration in Delhi under the current draft provisions. This represents a decisive step toward cleaner urban transportation.
Comprehensive Transition Timeline Across Vehicle Segments
The policy framework extends beyond two-wheelers to encompass other vehicle categories as well. According to the draft document, from January 1, 2027, only electric three-wheelers would be permitted for new registration within Delhi's jurisdiction.
Substantial Incentives to Accelerate EV Adoption
To facilitate this substantial transition, the government has proposed a comprehensive package of financial incentives. For electric two-wheelers priced up to Rs 2.25 lakh (ex-showroom), buyers could receive benefits of Rs 10,000 per kilowatt-hour, with a maximum cap of Rs 30,000 during the first year of implementation.
This incentive structure is designed to taper gradually, reducing to Rs 20,000 in the second year and further decreasing to Rs 10,000 in the third year. This phased approach aims to stimulate early adoption while gradually reducing fiscal support as the market matures.
Additional Benefits and Infrastructure Development
The policy draft includes several supplementary measures to bolster electric vehicle adoption. Electric cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh would receive complete exemption from road tax and registration fees until March 31, 2030. Furthermore, the government has outlined ambitious plans to significantly expand charging infrastructure across the city, addressing one of the primary concerns of potential EV buyers.
Important Considerations and Next Steps
It is crucial to emphasize that this remains a draft policy proposal that has not yet been implemented. The Delhi Government has opened the document for public feedback, and modifications may be incorporated before final approval. If enacted in its current form, the regulations would apply exclusively to new vehicle registrations, with existing petrol-powered two-wheelers continuing to operate without restriction.
This policy represents a bold vision for Delhi's transportation future, balancing environmental imperatives with practical transition mechanisms through incentives and infrastructure development.
