Wheels of Change: Delhi’s New EV Policy Plans to Phase Out CNG & Petrol Vehicles
The newly-elected Delhi Government is gearing up for a major move to tackle one of the city’s most persistent challenges—air pollution. The draft Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 proposes sweeping changes to the way vehicles are registered and used in the capital, with the goal of drastically reducing vehicular emissions in the coming years.If approved, the policy will be a turning point in India’s urban transportation narrative, marking Delhi as a frontrunner in clean mobility.The Two-Wheeler TurnaroundOne of the most striking recommendations in the draft is the proposed ban on registering any new petrol, diesel, or CNG-powered two-wheelers from August 15, 2026. While this move is still subject to cabinet approval, it signals a firm commitment to prioritising electric two-wheelers as the default choice for Delhi’s commuters.This marks a bold effort to clean up the city’s most common mode of transport—motorcycles and scooters—which significantly contribute to local air pollution.Auto-Rickshaws Get a MakeoverDelhi’s iconic CNG auto-rickshaws, often seen zipping across the city, are also set for a green transformation. Starting August 15, 2025, no new CNG-run autos will be registered, and existing permits will no longer be renewed. Instead, the policy proposes a shift to electric auto-rickshaws, either through new purchases or retrofitting of older models—especially those over ten years old.Commercial three-wheelers for goods transport are being included in this transition as well, ensuring a holistic shift across public and cargo mobility segments.Leading by Example: Government FleetsThe policy doesn’t stop with private and commercial vehicles. It sets a powerful precedent by mandating that all municipal waste-collection vehicles operated by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and Delhi Jal Board (DJB) must go electric by December 31, 2027.The government also plans to make Delhi’s public transport greener, with electric buses replacing diesel ones for intra-city travel. Inter-state travel, however, will still allow BS-VI compliant buses for now.Incentivising Responsible Private OwnershipIn a move to curb over-dependence on fossil fuel-powered private transport, the policy suggests that individuals already owning two vehicles will only be allowed to purchase a third if it’s electric. This recommendation aims to curb excess and promote sustainable choices among affluent vehicle owners.A Milestone in the MakingAlthough the current EV policy expired on March 31, it has been temporarily extended for 15 days to allow the new version to take shape. Some provisions—like the two-wheeler ban—may still be fine-tuned before final cabinet approval.If implemented as drafted, Delhi’s EV Policy 2.0 could become a model for other Indian cities, proving that the path to cleaner air and sustainable transport begins with strong policy and clear intent.