EV policy: Petrol two-wheelers to be barred from registration in Delhi from 2028

Petrol-powered two-wheelers will no longer be eligible for registration in Delhi from April 1, 2028, under the proposed EV Policy 2.0, which mandates that only electric two-wheelers can be registered from FY29. The segment currently makes up the largest share of the capital’s vehicle fleet, accounting for 67.7%.

In the three-wheeler category, the policy stipulates that only electric models will be allowed for new registrations starting January 1, 2027, effectively phasing out fossil-fuel-powered autos.

The policy also lays out a phased transition for school transport. Institutions will be required to electrify their bus fleets in stages—at least 10% within two years of notification, rising to 20% in three years, and reaching a minimum of 30% by March 31, 2030. The education department has been tasked with ensuring compliance.

Restrictions will also apply to cab aggregators and delivery firms. From January 1, 2026, they will not be allowed to add new petrol or diesel vehicles in certain categories, including small goods carriers and two-wheelers. However, BS-VI petrol two-wheelers can still be added until December 31, 2026.

Transport minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said the policy aims to make clean mobility more accessible and affordable while reducing pollution. “Through tax exemptions, incentives and expanded charging infrastructure, we want to accelerate EV adoption and build a sustainable transport system,” he said.

Amit Bhatt of the International Council on Clean Transportation described the measures as a “strong and decisive move towards clean mobility”, noting that electrification targets across vehicle segments and government procurement could significantly improve air quality if implemented effectively.

Sunil Dahiya, founder of Envirocatalysts, told the Times of India that the policy could go further by ensuring EV charging is powered largely by renewable energy, supported by time-of-day tariffs to prevent shifting pollution to power plants. He added that clear deadlines for electrifying two- and three-wheelers mark progress towards cleaner air.

Offering a more cautious view, Anil Chhikara argued that banning petrol two-wheelers could trigger anxiety among consumers. He suggested a balanced approach with a mix of electric and conventional vehicles, noting that EVs still face certain limitations.

While talking to TOI, Chhikara also said the policy appears to be an extension of earlier frameworks with limited new direction. He stressed that Delhi’s bigger challenge is congestion, and called for greater investment in public transport, improved last-mile EV connectivity, and more affordable common mobility systems to reduce reliance on private vehicles.