Delhi’s government has launched a comprehensive Electric Vehicle (EV) policy designed to address pollution and foster cleaner transport across the city. The initiative offers more than just purchase incentives, integrating plans for charging infrastructure, vehicle scrapping, and e-waste management to create a sustainable ecosystem for electric mobility.
The policy aims to transform electric vehicles into the preferred mode of transport in India’s capital by encouraging adoption across various vehicle types, including two- and three-wheelers, passenger cars, and light commercial trucks. To achieve this, the government introduced subsidies on vehicle purchases, scrapping incentives for old vehicles, waived registration fees, and exemptions from road taxes, making EV ownership more accessible and cost-effective for consumers.
A critical component of the strategy is the aggressive expansion of Delhi’s EV charging infrastructure. Currently hosting around 9,000 charging points, the city plans to increase this number to 32,000. The government has assigned roles to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), resident welfare associations (RWAs), housing societies, and businesses to facilitate this scaling. Additionally, a single-window approval platform will streamline the installation process of new charging stations, aiming to alleviate any bureaucratic barriers.
Delhi already operates the largest electric bus fleet in India, with approximately 4,500 buses, and is continuing to expand through fresh tenders under the PM E-Drive initiative. The Chief Minister emphasized the city’s multi-pronged approach to tackle pollution, combining electric mobility promotion with dust control schemes and extensive tree plantation drives targeting millions of new trees to improve air quality.
The transition from petrol and diesel vehicles will be gradual to allow for adaptation without sudden disruption. From January 1, 2027, Delhi will register only electric autorickshaws, followed by exclusive registration of electric two-wheelers beginning April 2028. Existing internal combustion engine vehicles will remain operational throughout their legal lifespan, aiming to provide clarity and ease for the public during the shift.