Delhi is accelerating its clean mobility push. The city government plans to present its new electric vehicle policy — EV Policy 2.0 — next week, with implementation targeted by July 2025. The most striking proposal: a ban on registration of new petrol two-wheelers and CNG three-wheelers by 2028.
What the new Delhi EV policy proposes
The policy draft, being finalized by the Delhi Transport Department, aims to replace the existing EV policy that expires soon. According to officials who spoke to ET Auto, the new framework will include stricter timelines for phasing out fossil-fuel vehicles. The 2028 deadline for petrol two-wheelers and CNG three-wheelers is the most aggressive target set by any Indian state so far.
Why this matters for Delhi's commuters
Two-wheelers and three-wheelers form the backbone of Delhi's daily commute. Over 70% of vehicles registered in Delhi are two-wheelers, while three-wheelers — mostly CNG-powered autos — serve millions of short-distance trips. A ban on new registrations by 2028 means anyone buying a petrol bike or CNG auto after that date will have to switch to electric. For existing owners, the policy is expected to allow continued use but with phased restrictions.
Timeline: From policy draft to rollout
The Delhi government has been working on EV Policy 2.0 for months. The current policy, launched in 2020, offered purchase subsidies and waived registration fees for EVs. With its expiry approaching, the new policy was initially expected in early 2025 but faced delays. Officials now confirm the draft will go to the cabinet next week, with rollout targeted by July. The 2028 ban timeline suggests a five-year transition window for manufacturers and consumers.
Who will be affected most
Delivery riders, auto drivers, and small business owners who rely on two-wheelers and three-wheelers for income will face the biggest impact. Many operate on thin margins and cannot afford sudden vehicle upgrades. The policy is expected to include transition support — subsidies, financing options, and charging infrastructure — but details remain unclear. Environmental groups have welcomed the timeline, calling it necessary for Delhi's air quality crisis.
What Delhi Transport Department officials say
Senior officials in the Delhi Transport Department confirmed the plan to ET Auto, stating the policy aims to "phase out polluting vehicles in a structured manner." They emphasized that the 2028 deadline is a target, not an immediate ban, and that stakeholder consultations will shape final provisions. The department is also working on expanding charging infrastructure across the city.
Why 2028? The logic behind the deadline
Delhi's air quality remains among the worst globally, with vehicular emissions contributing significantly. The 2028 timeline aligns with the central government's Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme phase-out and global EV adoption trends. By 2028, industry analysts expect EV two-wheelers to reach cost parity with petrol models, making the transition economically viable for consumers.
Confirmed facts vs what remains unclear
Confirmed: Delhi govt will present EV Policy 2.0 next week; rollout targeted by July 2025; proposed ban on new petrol two-wheeler and CNG three-wheeler registrations by 2028.
Unclear: Exact subsidy amounts, charging infrastructure targets, timeline for existing vehicle phase-out, and whether the ban applies to all vehicle categories or specific segments. These details are expected in the cabinet presentation.
Delhi's EV ecosystem: What makes this policy different
Delhi's existing EV policy already made it one of India's leading EV markets, with over 10% of new vehicle registrations being electric — far above the national average. The new policy builds on this foundation by adding a clear phase-out timeline, something most states have avoided. The city's dense urban layout and short average trip distances make it ideal for EV adoption, especially for two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
Risks and concerns emerging
Industry stakeholders have raised concerns about the 2028 deadline. Two-wheeler manufacturers argue that charging infrastructure is still inadequate, especially in residential areas. Auto unions worry about job losses if transition support is insufficient. Consumer groups point out that EV prices, while falling, remain higher than petrol equivalents. Without adequate subsidies, the ban could create affordability issues for lower-income buyers.
How Delhi's move fits the national EV push
Several Indian states — including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka — have announced EV policies, but none have set a hard deadline for phasing out petrol two-wheelers. Delhi's 2028 target is the most ambitious. The central government's FAME III scheme is also expected soon, which could complement Delhi's state-level push. If successful, Delhi's model could become a template for other cities battling air pollution.
What Delhi residents should do now
If you're planning to buy a two-wheeler or three-wheeler in Delhi, consider the timeline. Petrol and CNG vehicles purchased before 2028 will likely remain usable for their full lifespan. But anyone buying after 2028 will need to go electric. For current owners, watch for transition schemes and scrappage incentives that the policy may offer. Auto drivers and delivery riders should start exploring EV options and financing plans.
What happens next
The Delhi cabinet will review the policy draft next week. If approved, the policy will be notified and implemented from July 2025. The 2028 ban timeline will be subject to periodic review based on infrastructure readiness and market conditions. Industry consultations will continue to refine subsidy structures and charging network plans.
Our Take
Delhi's EV Policy 2.0 is a bold move that signals the end of the road for petrol two-wheelers and CNG three-wheelers in the capital. The 2028 deadline gives manufacturers and consumers a clear transition window — but only if the supporting ecosystem of charging points, affordable EVs, and financing options is built in time. The real test will be execution: can Delhi deliver the infrastructure and subsidies needed to make this transition fair and feasible for everyone, especially those who depend on these vehicles for their livelihoods?
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Delhi's new EV policy be implemented?
The Delhi government plans to present the policy draft next week, with rollout targeted by July 2025.
Will petrol two-wheelers be banned in Delhi?
The policy proposes a ban on new registrations of petrol two-wheelers by 2028. Existing vehicles will likely remain usable with possible phased restrictions.
What about CNG three-wheelers in Delhi?
New CNG three-wheeler registrations are also proposed to be banned by 2028 under the new EV policy.
Will there be subsidies for buying EVs in Delhi?
Subsidy details are expected in the cabinet presentation next week. The current EV policy offers purchase subsidies and registration fee waivers; the new policy is likely to continue similar incentives.
