The government launched the PM E-DRIVE Scheme. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM E-DRIVE Scheme on 11th September 2024 to promote electric mobility in the country.
The PM E-DRIVE Scheme aims to accelerate EV adoption and establish essential charging infrastructure across the country. As part of the scheme, the Ministry of Heavy Industries introduced e-vouchers for EV customers to avail demand incentives.
The e-vouchers thereafter streamline the process of accessing incentives, providing a seamless experience for both consumers and manufacturers.
During the launch event Union Minister of Heavy Industries & Steel HD Kumaraswamy said, “Today is a landmark day, as we transition from the FAME Scheme and the Electric Vehicle Promotion Scheme (EMPS) to the PM E-DRIVE Scheme.” “This initiative is set to accelerate EV adoption across the country and further boost domestic innovation and manufacturing,” he further said.
PM E-DRIVE Scheme: What Are The Benefits?
Subsidies/Demand Incentives
Rs 3,679 crore allocated for e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks, and emerging EVs, supporting 24.79 lakh e-2Ws, 3.16 lakh e-3Ws, and 14,028 e-buses.
E-Voucher Introduction
Aadhaar-authenticated e-vouchers for EV buyers, generated at purchase and sent to registered mobile numbers. Signed e-voucher essential for dealer submission and OEM reimbursement.
E-Ambulances
Rs 500 crore allocated for deployment. Standards will be set in consultation with MoHFW and MoRTH.
E-Buses And E-Trucks
Rs 4,391 crore for procurement of 14,028 e-buses via CESL in 9 major cities. Preference to buses replacing scrapped STU buses. Rs 500 crore for incentivizing e-trucks, with scrapping certificates from RVSF mandatory for incentives.
Public Charging Stations
Rs 2,000 crore outlay for installing 22,100 fast chargers (e-4Ws), 1,800 for e-buses, and 48,400 for e-2Ws/3Ws in high EV penetration cities and highways.
Test Agency Modernization
Rs 780 crore for upgrading MHI test agencies to handle new EV technologies.
