Delhi has enacted an ambitious policy aimed at transitioning the majority of newly registered vehicles to electric power by 2027, a significant move to combat severe air pollution in one of the world's most congested cities. The policy, implemented July 1, will phase out the registration of new gasoline-powered three-wheeled vehicles and small trucks starting in 2027, followed by two-wheelers in 2028. While existing combustion engine vehicles will not be banned, their numbers are expected to decrease over time.
Energy experts describe the plan as one of India's most aggressive electric vehicle (EV) initiatives, designed to improve air quality and reduce pollution. Vehicles contribute approximately a quarter of the air pollution in Delhi's National Capital Region, with two- and three-wheelers accounting for nearly half of the city's vehicular pollution. This pollution frequently leads to school closures and public health advisories, particularly during winter months.
The policy includes financial incentives for EV adoption, such as subsidies of up to 50,000 rupees ($522) for new EV purchases and waivers on registration fees and some road taxes. Additionally, it offers up to 100,000 rupees ($1,044) to residents who scrap their old gasoline-powered vehicles. These measures aim to encourage a shift away from fossil fuel-dependent transportation.
Currently, electric vehicles represent about 5% of Delhi's 8.7 million registered vehicles. However, EV registrations have seen a notable increase, with over 100,000 new registrations in the past year, predominantly for two- and three-wheelers. New registrations for larger gasoline-powered cars and trucks will continue to be permitted for the foreseeable future.
Experts believe the policy sends a clear signal to both automakers and consumers about the inevitability of this transition. While other Indian states have offered incentives for EVs, Delhi is the first to implement a phase-out of new gasoline-powered vehicle registrations.
Despite the policy's ambition, challenges remain. EV drivers report that charging facilities are not yet adequate, and concerns persist about the limited battery range of current EV models, making long-distance travel difficult. The success of the policy is seen as dependent on expanding charging infrastructure and increasing the proportion of renewable energy sources powering the grid. A significant portion of EV charging currently occurs at night, when solar power is unavailable, increasing reliance on thermal power plants.
To address these issues, Delhi must upgrade its electricity grid, particularly to accommodate fast chargers required for buses, cargo vehicles, and cars. Experts suggest measures such as installing battery storage at charging stations and implementing time-of-day pricing to encourage charging during periods of high renewable energy availability.
Some residents express reservations about the current state of EV technology. Siddhant Jha, a 22-year-old software engineer, cited concerns about EV longevity, potential damage from street flooding, and the overall cost-effectiveness compared to traditional vehicles, opting to wait for improved models and infrastructure.