Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta recently unveiled plans to transition all public transport in the city to electric by the end of 2026. This move is part of the Delhi government’s commitment to combat pollution and improve air quality in the capital. The announcement was made during the launch of the Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector (DEVi) initiative, which aims to enhance last-mile connectivity using a fleet of modern electric buses.
The DEVi project has already deployed 400 buses in East and West Delhi, with more buses set to be added by the end of the year. Each DEVi bus can accommodate 23 seated passengers, with special provisions for women passengers. Fares for these buses range from Rs 10 to Rs 25, and women can travel for free. Chief Minister Gupta emphasized the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles to address the pollution crisis in Delhi, attributing a significant portion of pollution to vehicular emissions.
In addition to electrifying public transport, the Delhi government plans to introduce an electric vehicle (EV) policy for both public and private vehicles. This policy will include incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of EVs in the city. To support this transition, the government will invest in new infrastructure such as bus depots, charging stations, and maintenance hubs.
Gupta highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to combat pollution and traffic congestion in Delhi. The government aims to achieve 80% electrification of the city’s bus fleet by 2025, in line with the goals outlined in the Delhi EV Policy draft 2.0. The EV market in Delhi has shown significant growth, with a substantial increase in the number of registered EVs in recent years.
The draft EV 2.0 Policy includes various incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, including financial benefits for owners of electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheeled goods vehicles. The government also plans to establish a robust charging infrastructure in the city, with the goal of setting up over 13,700 public charging stations by 2030.
As Delhi moves towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transport system, stakeholders in the automotive industry are closely watching these developments. The shift towards electric vehicles not only benefits the environment but also presents new opportunities for manufacturers, suppliers, and other players in the sector.
The commitment to electrify public transport and promote EV adoption reflects a broader trend seen in the global automotive industry. As countries worldwide seek to reduce emissions and combat climate change, the shift towards electric mobility is gaining momentum. Motor shows and industry events often showcase the latest advancements in EV technology, highlighting the potential for a greener future.