The Delhi government has doubled down on its commitment to electric mobility with the launch of its new and improved Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2.0. Building on the success of its groundbreaking 2020 policy, the new framework introduces a fresh set of incentives and mandates designed to further accelerate the adoption of EVs, with a particular focus on the high-volume two-wheeler segment and the critical need for a dense and accessible charging network.
A Sharper Focus on Two-Wheelers and Last-Mile Delivery
Recognizing that two-wheelers are the backbone of urban mobility in Delhi, the new policy has enhanced the financial incentives for this segment. Key features include:
- Purchase Subsidies: The policy continues to offer attractive purchase subsidies for electric two-wheelers, making them more affordable for a wider range of consumers. The specific subsidy amounts will be linked to the battery capacity of the vehicle, encouraging the adoption of models with longer range and better performance.
- Scrappage Incentives: To encourage the replacement of older, polluting petrol two-wheelers, the policy introduces a scrappage incentive. Owners who scrap their old internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and purchase a new electric two-wheeler will be eligible for an additional financial benefit.
- Incentives for Last-Mile Delivery: The policy places a strong emphasis on electrifying the last-mile delivery and gig economy sectors. It mandates that all aggregators and delivery service providers must transition their entire fleet of two-wheelers to electric by 2030. To support this transition, the policy offers enhanced incentives for the purchase of commercial electric two-wheelers.
Supercharging the Charging Infrastructure
A major highlight of the EV Policy 2.0 is its aggressive push to expand the charging infrastructure across the national capital. The government aims to create one of the densest charging networks in the world, with a goal of having a public charging point available every three kilometers. The policy includes:
- Capital Subsidies for Charging Stations: The government will provide significant capital subsidies for the installation of public charging stations. This includes support for both slow chargers (AC) and fast chargers (DC).
- Focus on Residential Charging: To address the challenge of home charging, particularly for residents in apartments and cooperative housing societies, the policy offers subsidies for the installation of private charging points in residential complexes.
- Battery Swapping Network: The policy also provides incentives for the setting up of battery swapping stations, catering primarily to the commercial two-wheeler and three-wheeler segments.
A Holistic and Data-Driven Approach
The Delhi EV Policy 2.0 is not just a collection of incentives; it is a comprehensive strategy that takes a holistic view of the EV ecosystem. The policy is backed by a data-driven approach, with the government planning to use real-time data on vehicle registrations, charging station usage, and air quality to monitor the policy’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
By creating a virtuous cycle of affordable vehicles, ubiquitous charging, and a supportive policy environment, the Delhi government is aiming to cement its position as the EV capital of India. This new policy is a bold and ambitious roadmap that has the potential to create a clean, green, and sustainable future for mobility in the city.
