The Tamil Nadu government has announced a new order waiving permit fees for battery-powered passenger vehicles and vehicles running on methanol or ethanol fuel.
Previously, these vehicles were not eligible for licenses in Tamil Nadu. The move is part of the government’s efforts to promote environmentally friendly transportation.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in India had previously exempted battery-powered and methanol/ethanol-fueled passenger vehicles from license requirements in 2018.
The Transport Commissioner of Tamil Nadu emphasized the need for registration and licenses to address regulatory concerns and practical issues.
Following discussions between members of the electric vehicle industry and Minister for Industries Dr TRB Rajaa, Chief Minister MK Stalin instructed prompt action to facilitate the operation of battery-powered shared passenger vehicles.
In response, P Amudha, Principal Secretary to the Government, Transport Department, issued an order stating that battery-powered and methanol/ethanol-fueled transport vehicles (excluding goods vehicles weighing less than 3000 kgs) would be granted permits by the Transport Department without any permit fees.
This policy change fills a significant gap and paves the way for the expansion of electric vehicle fleets in Tamil Nadu.
