- Delhi has implemented an ambitious new policy, effective from 1 July, aiming for the vast majority of newly registered vehicles to be electric by 2027 to tackle severe air pollution.
- The policy, costing an estimated 150 billion rupees ($1.5 billion), offers subsidies for electric vehicle purchases, waivers on registration fees, and incentives for scrapping older petrol vehicles.
- It specifically targets two- and three-wheelers, which account for nearly 70 per cent of the city's vehicles, mandating new registrations for these to be electric by 2027 and 2028 respectively.
- Drivers and energy experts have highlighted a significant shortfall in the current electric vehicle charging infrastructure, stressing the need for substantial upgrades to the city's electricity grid.
- While lauded as a pioneering step towards cleaner air, the policy faces challenges including public concerns over EV longevity and accessibility, and the necessity of sourcing power from renewable resources.
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