Electric Vehicles – Delhi Introduces EV Policy 2026 With New Incentives
Electric Vehicles –The Delhi government has formally notified the Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy 2026, setting out a roadmap to expand the use of electric vehicles across the national capital. The policy, which came into effect on July 1, 2026, focuses on reducing vehicle emissions, improving air quality and building stronger infrastructure for electric mobility.
The notification follows the Delhi Cabinet’s approval of the policy earlier this week. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta-led Cabinet cleared the proposal before it was sent to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu for final approval. The policy has been issued under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and related rules.
Road Tax Relief for Eligible Electric Cars
A key provision of the new policy offers a complete waiver of road tax and registration charges for electric cars priced at Rs 30 lakh or below at the ex-showroom level. The benefit will apply to eligible vehicles registered in Delhi.
The move is expected to lower the upfront cost of purchasing electric cars and encourage more residents to consider battery-powered vehicles. Registration charges and road tax can add significantly to the cost of a new vehicle, particularly in Delhi, where authorities are seeking to speed up the shift away from fossil-fuel transport.
Electric Auto Rickshaws From 2027
The policy also sets a deadline for the transition of new auto rickshaw registrations. From January 1, 2027, only electric auto rickshaws will be registered in Delhi. New petrol and CNG auto rickshaws will no longer be added to the city’s vehicle fleet after that date.
Auto rickshaws are widely used for daily commuting in Delhi and contribute to local traffic emissions. By making electric models mandatory for new registrations, the government aims to reduce pollution from last-mile public transport while supporting the growth of charging and battery-swapping facilities.
Existing petrol and CNG auto rickshaws are not covered by the new-registration restriction mentioned in the policy. However, the decision is expected to gradually increase the share of electric three-wheelers on Delhi roads as older vehicles are replaced.
Two-Wheeler Transition Planned in Phases
The Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy 2026 also outlines a phased shift in the two-wheeler segment. Registration of new petrol and CNG two-wheelers will be gradually discontinued, with only electric two-wheelers eligible for registration from April 1, 2028.
Two-wheelers account for a large portion of Delhi’s registered vehicles and are commonly used for personal travel, delivery services and commercial operations. The planned transition is intended to reduce emissions from this category while giving consumers, manufacturers and dealers time to prepare for the change.
The government has proposed purchase incentives for electric two-wheelers during the first three years of the policy. Buyers will receive a subsidy of Rs 30,000 in the first year, Rs 20,000 in the second year and Rs 10,000 in the third year.
Policy to Remain Valid Until 2030
The EV policy will remain in force until March 31, 2030. During this period, the Delhi government is expected to work on measures needed to support wider electric vehicle adoption, including charging networks, financing options and public awareness.
Delhi has faced recurring concerns over air pollution, particularly during winter months, when emissions from vehicles, industries and other sources affect air quality. The new policy places electric mobility at the centre of the government’s transport strategy and introduces timelines for a gradual move towards cleaner vehicles.
The success of the plan will depend on the availability of affordable EV models, reliable charging facilities and smooth implementation of the new registration rules. For consumers, the road tax waiver and purchase subsidies are likely to be among the most immediate benefits under the policy.