Delhi Draft EV Policy Targets ICE 2W Ban from April 2028

Delhi government has released the draft EV Policy 2026 - 2030 for public feedback across stakeholders and buyers. The policy focuses on electric two-wheelers as they form a major share of Delhi’s vehicle base. Therefore, the draft combines incentives with a strict future registration rule for cleaner mobility adoption. It aims to reduce emissions and shift buyers toward electric options in a planned manner.

Strong Push for Electric Two-Wheelers

The draft clearly states that two-wheelers make up around 67 percent of Delhi’s total vehicles today. Therefore, the government sees this segment as key for reducing pollution levels in the city. However, instead of gradual limits, the draft proposes a direct shift away from petrol models. From April 1, 2028, only electric two-wheelers will be allowed for new registrations in Delhi.

This move sets a fixed timeline for buyers, dealers, and manufacturers to prepare accordingly. Moreover, it removes confusion around engine capacity or emission based restrictions in the future. The proposal signals a complete transition path rather than a phased reduction approach.

Incentive Structure Explained

The draft includes financial support to encourage early adoption of electric two-wheelers among buyers. However, these incentives reduce every year, which encourages faster purchase decisions from interested customers.

Electric two-wheelers priced up to Rs. 2.25 lakh at the factory level qualify under this scheme. Therefore, mid range electric scooters and bikes will benefit more under the current structure. In addition, the decreasing subsidy suggests the government expects better cost balance over time.

Scrappage Incentive for Older Vehicles

The policy also includes a scrappage incentive to support buyers switching from older petrol two-wheelers. Buyers can get Rs. 10,000 if they scrap a BS-IV or older registered vehicle. However, the new electric purchase must happen within six months after receiving the deposit certificate.

This step adds another benefit for existing owners planning to shift to electric mobility. Moreover, it supports removing older polluting vehicles from Delhi roads in a controlled manner. The incentive amount is modest, yet it works as an additional push alongside purchase benefits.

Tax Benefits and Registration Support

The draft continues offering full exemption from road tax and registration fees for electric vehicles. Therefore, buyers can save extra money during the purchase process beyond direct subsidies. In addition, these benefits remain valid during the entire policy period, subject to conditions.

This approach makes electric two-wheelers more attractive compared to petrol models in overall ownership cost. However, the long term savings will depend on battery costs and charging availability across the city.

OEM Responsibilities and Charging Plans

The policy also holds manufacturers and dealers who were in Delhi at this time to be responsible. OEMs need to make sure that they supply electric vehicles adequately to satisfy the increasing demand around the city. Additionally, every dealer should have at least one publicly charging station with three charging points.

Delhi Transco Limited is also assigned the responsibility of planning and implementation of charging infrastructure under the draft. As such, the city will roll out coordinated charging and battery swapping stations. Moreover, there will be a single window clearance system making approvals and tracking easier.

In general, the draft policy provides a definite path to the development of electric mobility in Delhi. Nevertheless, its overall effect will be determined by implementation, stability of prices and its reaction by the buyer in the long term.

Before you go, check out the Ola Roadster X Review: Real Cost, Range and Features.