Delhi releases draft EV policy: Only electric two wheelers from 2028, e autos from 2027

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Government of Delhi has released the draft of the “Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy 2026–2030” to curb rising pollution in the national capital. The four-year policy focuses on promoting electric vehicles (EVs), improving air quality, and strengthening a clean transport system. It is based on Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which includes the right to clean air, along with legal references such as the MC Mehta vs Union of India, the Environment Protection Act 1986, and the Motor Vehicles Act 1988.

According to the Commission for Air Quality Management, vehicles contribute around 23 percent of pollution in Delhi during winters. Two-wheelers alone account for nearly 67 percent of total vehicles, making their transition to electric crucial. Three-wheelers, commercial cars, and small goods vehicles (N1) are also major contributors to pollution.

The policy aims to increase EV adoption across all vehicle categories, expand charging infrastructure, develop battery recycling systems, and reduce dependence on petrol and diesel vehicles.

Subsidy benefits for EV buyers

The government will provide direct benefit transfers (DBT) to buyers. For electric two-wheelers, subsidies will be ₹10,000 per kW (up to ₹30,000) in the first year, ₹6,600 (up to ₹20,000) in the second year, and ₹3,300 (up to ₹10,000) in the third year.

For e-autos, incentives include ₹50,000 in the first year, ₹40,000 in the second year, and ₹30,000 in the third year. Small electric trucks (N1) will get up to ₹1 lakh in the first year, ₹75,000 in the second, and ₹50,000 in the third year.

Scrapping old BS-IV or older vehicles will also provide incentives: ₹10,000 for two-wheelers, ₹25,000 for three-wheelers, ₹1 lakh for cars (up to ₹30 lakh, limited to first 1 lakh users), and ₹50,000 for N1 trucks.

All EVs registered in Delhi will get 100 percent exemption from road tax and registration fees. Electric cars priced up to ₹30 lakh will receive full exemption, while strong hybrid vehicles will get 50 percent relief. No benefits will be given to cars priced above ₹30 lakh.

Charging network and infrastructure expansion

Delhi Transco Limited will act as the nodal agency for planning and expanding charging and battery swapping infrastructure. A digital portal and single-window system will be created to simplify the installation of charging stations.

Vehicle manufacturers will be required to install at least one public charging station at each dealership, with separate charging points for two-three wheelers and four-wheelers.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee will set rules for battery collection centers and safe disposal. A battery tracking system will also be introduced to ensure proper recycling and reuse.

Key deadlines and implementation plan

From January 1, 2027, only electric three-wheelers will be registered, and from April 1, 2028, only electric two-wheelers will be allowed registration. The share of EVs in school buses will also be increased to 10 percent in the first two years, 20 percent in the third year, and 30 percent by 2030.

All new vehicles purchased by government departments will be electric, and new buses of the Delhi Transport Corporation will also be electric. Delivery and fleet companies will be restricted from adding petrol or diesel vehicles from 2026.

The entire process will be made digital and paperless. The transport department will implement the policy through a dedicated EV cell. This policy is being seen as a major step toward making Delhi pollution-free and advancing electric mobility.