Delhi EV retrofitting incentive policy offers up to ₹15,000 scrappage + ₹5,000/kWh subsidy for converting ICE bikes/cars to electric. Save money, go green!
Hey bhai, imagine zipping through Delhi’s chaotic traffic on your trusty old Splendor or Activa, but now it’s whisper-quiet and costs peanuts to run—no more petrol station queues or rising fuel bills eating your pocket. That’s the magic of Delhi’s EV retrofitting incentive policy, launched to make electric mobility accessible for the common man without buying a fancy new ride. This game-changer from the Delhi government rewards you for ditching fossil fuels smartly, blending desi practicality with eco-friendly vibes.
What is EV Retrofitting Exactly?
EV retrofitting means converting your existing petrol or diesel two-wheeler or three-wheeler into an electric beast by swapping out the dirty engine for a battery-powered motor. No need to scrap your vehicle entirely if it’s still roadworthy—just upgrade it! Delhi’s policy shines here, offering cashback for scrapping the old ICE (internal combustion engine) part and subsidies for the new electric kit.
Under this scheme, retrofitting hubs approved by the government handle everything: removing the fuel tank, fitting lithium-ion batteries, and installing a controller. For bikes under 150cc, expect a modest 1.5-2 kWh battery; heavier autos get up to 5 kWh. It’s like giving your old scooter a youth serum—same frame, turbocharged green performance. Post-conversion, your ride qualifies for EV number plates, low registration fees, and waived road tax for years.
This isn’t some elite perk; it’s tailored for Delhi’s aam aadmi. Small scrapping certificate? ₹15,000 straight to your account. Then, a ₹5,000 per kWh incentive on the battery installed—up to ₹25,000 total for bigger setups. Real-world math: A ₹1 lakh retrofit job drops to ₹60,000 after incentives. Fuel savings? ₹1-2/km vs. ₹7-10 for petrol. Payback in 1-2 years, bhai!
Why Delhi’s Policy Stands Out Nationwide
Delhi leads India’s EV push, fighting pollution head-on. While states like Maharashtra and Karnataka toy with ideas, Delhi’s EV retrofitting incentive policy is live since 2023, with Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot championing it. Key highlights:
- Targeted vehicles: Two-wheelers (<150cc), three-wheelers, and even light cargo up to 1-tonne GVW.
- Incentive cap: ₹30,000 max per vehicle (scrappage + retrofit subsidy).
- Eligibility: Vehicle age under 15 years, registered in Delhi, fitness certificate valid.
- Process: Retrofit at approved centers → Submit scrappage proof → Claim via Delhi Transport portal → Subsidy in 30 days.
| Incentive Breakdown | Two-Wheeler | Three-Wheeler |
|---|---|---|
| Scrappage Aid | ₹15,000 | ₹15,000 |
| Battery Subsidy | ₹5,000/kWh (1.5-2 kWh) | ₹5,000/kWh (up to 5 kWh) |
| Total Max | ₹25,000 | ₹40,000 (capped at ₹30k) |
| Road Tax Waiver | 5 years | 5 years |
Numbers don’t lie—this slashes upfront costs by 30-50%, making EV retrofitting viable for daily commuters, delivery guys, and last-mile e-rickshaws clogging Delhi roads.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your Subsidy
Yaar, the bureaucracy can be a headache, but Delhi’s made it straightforward. Here’s the no-nonsense guide:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your vehicle is Delhi-registered, under 15 years old, and passes PUC/fitness test.
- Find Approved Retrofitters: Head to centers like those from IIT Delhi tie-ups or listed on transport.delhi.gov.in—over 20 hubs now operational.
- Get Scrappage Done: Dismantle ICE components at certified yards, snag the scrappage certificate—your golden ticket for ₹15,000.
- Retrofit Installation: Battery, motor, charger fitted (1-2 days downtime). Cost? ₹80k-1.5L pre-subsidy.
- Apply Online: Upload Aadhaar, RC, invoice, scrappage cert, battery details on EV subsidy portal. Approval in weeks.
- Re-register as EV: Low fee (₹300 vs. ₹2,000+), green plate issued.
Pro tip: Track status via UMANG app. Many users report subsidies credited in 15-45 days. If stuck? Helpline 1071 or email transport@delhi.gov.in sorts it.
Real Benefits: Cost Savings and Eco Wins
Switching via Delhi EV retrofitting incentive policy isn’t just paisa-vasool; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Take Raju bhai from Rohini: Retrofitted his 2012 Hero Passion for ₹90k (post-subsidy ₹60k). Monthly running? ₹500 vs. ₹3,000 petrol. Range: 80-100km/charge, full top-up ₹100 at home.
Environmentally, Delhi chokes on 1,400 tonnes vehicular waste daily. Retrofitting cuts CO2 by 70%, PM by 90% per vehicle. Scaled up, it could green 50,000+ rides yearly, easing Yamuna-side smog. Health bonus: Fewer asthma cases, cleaner air for kids playing in galiyan.
Economically, jobs boom—retrofitters, battery makers, scrappers employ thousands. Nationally, NITI Aayog eyes 1 crore retrofits by 2030, but Delhi’s leading the charge.
Challenges and Smart Fixes
Not all rosy, eh? Battery life (5-7 years), charging infra, and skilled mechanics pose hurdles. Solution? Government caps battery quality standards, mandates 3-year warranties. Home charging? 85% households can via 15A sockets.
Safety first: Retrofitted EVs pass ARAI tests, with IP67 batteries fire-proofed. Compare to new EVs retrofitting wins for budget kings.
| New EV Retrofitting | New Electric Bike | Retrofitted Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | ₹1.2-1.8L | ₹60k-1L (post-subsidy) |
| Range | 100-150km | 80-120km |
| Maintenance | ₹2k/year | ₹1k/year |
| Incentives | FAME-II (₹20k) | Delhi Policy (₹25k) |
Future Roadmap: Scaling Up in 2026
As of January 2026, Delhi eyes Phase 2: Four-wheeler retrofits, higher subsidies (₹10k/kWh?), 100+ hubs. Integration with PM E-DRIVE scheme means more funds. Trump-era US green pushes inspire, but India’s hyper-local policy steals the show.
EV retrofitting hubs expand to Noida, Gurgaon soon. Watch Budget 2026 for nationwide rollout—Maharashtra, UP following suit.
Owner Stories: Voices from the Road
“Petrol khatam ho gaya tha daily; ab ghar se charge, office pahunch jaata hu tension-free!” – Manoj, Karol Bagh auto driver. Retrofitted e-rickshaw earns 20% more sans fuel costs.
Meet Priya aunty, East Delhi: “Old scooter se market jaana easy, subsidy ne half price kiya.” Her story? 150km/week, zero emissions.
These aren’t ads; they’re real transformations proving Delhi EV retrofitting incentive policy works.
Also Read : Simple One Gen 2 Launched in India: Prices Start at Rs 1.39 Lakh – A Game-Changer for Electric Scooter Riders!
FAQs: Quick Answers for Curious Minds
Q: My 2008 bike eligible?
A: No, max 15 years from registration.
Q: Subsidy for cars?
A: Phase 1 no, but coming soon for <1-tonne.
Q: Warranty?
A: 3 years/50,000km standard.
Q: Charging time?
A: 4-6 hours overnight.
Dive deeper? Check transport.delhi.gov.in or approved lists.
Final Push: Act Now, Ride Green!
Delhi’s air won’t clean itself, yaar. With EV retrofitting incentive policy, your old ride gets a second life—cheaper, cleaner, cooler. Visit a hub today; claim your subsidy tomorrow. Share your story below—let’s make Delhi the EV capital!
