Telangana has unveiled its Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2024, showcasing the state’s ambitious vision for environmental sustainability and cleaner air. Announced by Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on November 17, the policy aims to boost EV adoption, tackle air pollution, and build a robust ecosystem for electric mobility. Here’s a detailed breakdown of this transformative policy.

Key Points

Tax and Fee Exemptions: Complete road tax and registration fee waivers for EVs until December 31, 2026.

Expanded Eligibility: Covers two-wheelers, four-wheelers, electric buses, tractors, and auto-rickshaws.

Urban and Highway Charging Expansion: Collaboration with manufacturers to develop charging infrastructure.

Vehicle Scrappage Policy: A framework under development for phasing out vehicles older than 15 years.

GHMC Transition: Replace 3,000 diesel buses with electric ones in Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).

Savings: Substantial tax relief for EV buyers—up to ₹15,000 for two-wheelers and ₹3 lakh for four-wheelers.

Pollution Mitigation: Part of a broader strategy to address air quality issues in Hyderabad and beyond.

Features of Telangana’s EV Policy 2024

Tax Exemptions for a Wide Range of Vehicles
The policy eliminates the road tax and registration fees for all categories of EVs, including two-wheelers, four-wheelers, commercial taxis, auto-rickshaws, tractors, and electric buses. This exemption will remain in place for two years, incentivizing buyers across segments.

No Cap on EV Registrations
Unlike the earlier policy, which limited exemptions to the first 5,000 EVs, the 2024 policy benefits all buyers within the stipulated period, significantly broadening its reach.

Government-Facilitated Charging Infrastructure
To address concerns about charging accessibility, the government will work closely with EV manufacturers to develop a widespread network of charging stations strategically placed in urban centers, smaller towns, and along highways.

Transitioning Public Transport to EVs
The policy outlines a phased plan to replace 3,000 diesel buses in Hyderabad with electric ones, aligning public transport with the state’s environmental goals.

Upcoming Vehicle Scrappage Policy
The government is formulating a vehicle scrappage policy targeting vehicles over 15 years old. This is expected to reduce pollution from outdated, high-emission cars.

Incentives

Two-wheelers: Savings of up to ₹15,000 in taxes and fees.

Four-Wheelers: Buyers can save up to ₹3 lakh.

Commercial Vehicles: Electric taxis, cabs, and buses operated privately also qualify for the exemptions.

Private Electric Buses: Companies using electric buses for employee transport stand to benefit significantly.

Addressing Pollution and Promoting Sustainability

Hyderabad currently boasts a moderate Air Quality Index (AQI) of 123, significantly better than New Delhi’s severe AQI of 494. However, the policy aims to further improve air quality by promoting EV adoption and reducing reliance on traditional fuel vehicles.

Minister Prabhakar emphasized the role of citizens in making the initiative successful by opting for EVs when purchasing new vehicles. The policy aligns with the Congress-led government’s overarching mission to make Telangana a greener, more sustainable state.

Implementation

The government projects substantial savings for EV buyers across segments, making it an attractive proposition. Additionally, plans for robust charging infrastructure will ease the transition for buyers.

The GHMC area, identified as a pollution hotspot, will witness an extensive replacement of diesel buses with electric ones in a phased manner, underlining the government’s commitment to cleaner public transport.

Conclusion

Telangana’s EV Policy 2024 marks a significant step towards sustainable mobility and environmental preservation. By offering substantial financial incentives, focusing on infrastructure development, and addressing long-term challenges like scrappage of old vehicles, the state is setting an example for others to follow.

As the state urges citizens to switch to EVs, this policy could prove pivotal in driving India’s green transition while combating urban pollution. Whether you’re a private vehicle owner or a corporate fleet operator, now is the time to embrace Telangana’s vision for a cleaner future.