NEWS – To promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in India, the Central Government launched the ambitious Prime Minister E-Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme on September 29, 2024.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Features and Details of the Extension

• Extension Period & Funding: The scheme has been extended from March 31, 2026, to March 31, 2028. For this two-year period, the Central Government has allocated ₹10,900 crore.

Main Objectives of the Scheme

• Adoption of Electric Vehicles: Accelerating the usage of EVs across the country is the scheme’s primary goal.
• Charging Infrastructure: Establishing the necessary charging infrastructure for EVs.
• Manufacturing Ecosystem: Strengthening the domestic manufacturing ecosystem for EVs.

Eligibility Criteria and Technical Incentives

• Eligible EVs:
  • E-2 wheelers (e-2Ws)
  • E-3 wheelers (e-3Ws), including registered e-rickshaws and L5 category vehicles
  • E-ambulances and e-trucks
  • E-buses
  • Improvement of charging infrastructure and upgradation of testing agencies
• Vehicle Usage: In order to promote public transport, the scheme applies to registered e-2 wheelers and e-3 wheelers for commercial use. It also covers privately owned and corporate-owned e-2 wheelers.
• Focus on Technological Innovation: To encourage advanced technology, the benefits of the scheme will be extended only to EVs equipped with advanced batteries.