New Delhi is preparing to recalibrate its electric mobility strategy with a revised Electric Vehicle (EV) policy expected in early January, signalling a renewed push towards cleaner urban transport. The proposed framework combines enhanced financial incentives for EV adoption with stricter enforcement of pollution norms, reflecting the capital’s attempt to tackle worsening air quality while easing the transition for middle-income households.Â
According to officials familiar with the draft, the upcoming Delhi EV policy is expected to significantly raise purchase subsidies for electric two-wheelers, particularly for users switching from petrol-powered vehicles. Incentives in the range of ₹35,000 to ₹40,000 are being considered, aimed at making electric scooters and motorcycles more affordable for daily commuters. Policy planners believe two-wheelers offer the fastest route to mass electrification due to their high volume and urban usage patterns.The incentives will not be limited to private users. Commercial three-wheelers, a backbone of last-mile connectivity in the city, are also set to receive substantial support under the policy. Officials said targeted subsidies could help accelerate the replacement of ageing, polluting fleets with electric alternatives, reducing emissions in densely populated neighbourhoods.
The draft policy further proposes financial support for residents replacing petrol or diesel cars priced up to ₹20 lakh with electric models. Industry experts say this threshold could encourage broader adoption among salaried households, while preventing the subsidy regime from disproportionately benefiting luxury vehicle buyers. Beyond incentives, the Delhi EV policy is being positioned as part of a wider urban transport overhaul. Senior officials said the government intends to enforce pollution regulations more strictly, particularly for vehicles operating without valid Pollution Under Control certificates. Plans are underway to ensure penalties for non-compliance remain non-negotiable, addressing concerns that earlier enforcement mechanisms diluted deterrence.
The administration is also reviewing the growing impact of unregulated e-rickshaws on traffic congestion. New operational guidelines are expected to define routes and service areas, a move transport planners say could ease bottlenecks while improving energy efficiency across road networks. Public transport reform forms another pillar of the strategy. Authorities are working to rationalise city bus routes to improve last-mile access and encourage commuters to shift away from private vehicles.
Officials said better route planning and wider coverage could reduce dependency on cars and app-based taxis, easing both congestion and emissions.
Urban policy analysts view the extended validity of the current EV framework until March 2026 as a pragmatic step, allowing time for public consultation and smoother implementation. If executed effectively, the Delhi EV policy could serve as a template for Indian cities seeking balanced solutions that align climate goals with affordability, mobility access and inclusive urban growth.
Delhi Govt To Launch New Ev Policy Rs 35000 Subsidy Pollution FinesÂ
