The Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) has released the draft Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2026–2030, outlining an ambitious roadmap to curb vehicular emissions and improve air quality in the capital. The move comes as vehicular pollution continues to be a major contributor to Delhi’s winter air crisis, accounting for nearly 23% of total pollution levels. Notably, two-wheelers alone make up about 67% of the city’s total vehicle population, making them a key focus area for electrification.
The proposed policy, which will remain in effect until March 31, 2030, aims to accelerate EV adoption across multiple vehicle segments through a mix of financial incentives, regulatory mandates, and infrastructure development. One of its central features is a structured purchase incentive program designed to encourage early adoption. Buyers of electric two-wheelers can avail incentives of up to ₹30,000 in the first year, which will gradually reduce to ₹10,000 by the third year. Similarly, electric auto-rickshaws (L5M) are eligible for incentives of up to ₹50,000 in the first year, while electric goods carriers (N1 category) can receive up to ₹1,00,000.
In addition to purchase subsidies, the policy also introduces scrapping incentives for phasing out older, polluting vehicles. Owners replacing BS-IV or older internal combustion engine vehicles can receive benefits ranging from ₹10,000 for two-wheelers to ₹1,00,000 for electric cars priced below ₹30 lakh. To further reduce the cost burden, most EVs registered in Delhi will be exempt from road tax and registration fees. However, this exemption will apply only to electric cars with an ex-showroom price of up to ₹30 lakh, excluding high-end luxury EVs.
The policy also sets clear electrification targets. All new three-wheeler registrations must be electric from January 1, 2027, while new two-wheeler registrations will need to be electric from April 1, 2028. Additionally, schools have been directed to convert at least 30% of their bus fleets to electric by March 2030. The Delhi government has also committed to ensuring that all newly hired or leased vehicles are electric from the date the policy is notified.
On the infrastructure front, Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) has been designated as the nodal agency responsible for expanding public EV charging and battery swapping networks. The policy also mandates that vehicle manufacturers install at least one public charging station at each dealership.
The draft policy is currently open for public feedback, with stakeholders invited to submit their suggestions within 30 days. The government has emphasized that the implementation process, including subsidy disbursement, will be fully digital and paperless, ensuring transparency and ease of access.
