The Ministry of Heavy Industry, Govt. of India, with the approval of Union Cabinet, chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi has launched scheme titled PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme vide Gazette notification S.O. 4259 (E) on September 29, 2024. The scheme will be implemented from 1st October, 2024 till 31st March, 2026. Further, EMPS-2024, the number of vehicles and the expenditure under EMPS-2024 for e-2w and e-3w being implemented for the period from 1st April 2024 to 30th September 2024 is being subsumed under PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme, therefore, effective period for the scheme will be two years.

The PM E-DRIVE scheme is proposed to be implemented through the following components:

  • Subsidies: Demand Incentives for e-2W, e-3W, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories
  • Grants for creation of capital assets: e-buses, establishment of network of charging stations & upgradation of testing agencies of MHI, and
  • Administration of the Scheme including IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities and fee for project management agency (PMA).

The following categories of vehicles will be eligible for support:

  • Buses (only electric buses) (e-bus);
  • Three-Wheelers (electric) including registered e-rickshaws & e-carts and L5 (e-3W);
  • Two wheelers (electric) – e-2W;
  • e-ambulances (electric, plug in hybrid & strong hybrid); and
  • e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories (to be notified subsequently).

With greater emphasis on providing affordable and environment friendly public transportation options for the masses, scheme will be applicable mainly to vehicles used for public transport or those registered for commercial purposes in e-3W, e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories. However, in addition to commercial use, privately or corporate owned registered e-2W will also be eligible under the scheme. Eligible beneficiaries for e-ambulances shall be decided in consultation with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Further, where EVs are being purchased from eligible OEMs by any department of the Central or State Government or its agencies, PM E-DRIVE demand incentive shall not be extended, as it amounts to passing of funds from one government head to another.

The PM E-DRIVE Scheme aims to accelerate EV adoption and establish essential charging infrastructure across the country, promoting cleaner and more sustainable transportation. 

Owning an EV infrastructure in India can be highly beneficial, thanks to the PM E-Drive Scheme. Here are some of the advantages:

  • Increased Adoption of EVs: The scheme aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, which can lead to increased demand for EV charging infrastructure, making your investment more valuable.
  • Financial Incentives: The government offers subsidies and incentives for setting up EV charging infrastructure, which can help reduce your initial investment costs.
  • Growing Demand for Charging Stations: With the increasing number of EVs on the road, there will be a growing demand for charging stations, providing a steady stream of revenue for infrastructure owners.
  • Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels: By promoting the use of electric vehicles, you’ll be contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Job Creation and Economic Growth: The growth of EV infrastructure can lead to job creation and economic growth in the sector.

Some key highlights of the PM E-Drive Scheme include:

  • Allocation of ₹10,900 crore: For the development of EV infrastructure and incentivizing the adoption of electric vehicles.
  • Incentives for EV Purchases: Demand incentives for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, ambulances, trucks, and buses.
  • Expansion of Charging Infrastructure: Aims to establish a robust network of public charging stations, including fast chargers for e-4Ws, e-buses, and e-2Ws/e-3Ws.

How to Apply for Government Subsidy

  1. Eligibility Criteria to Get the Subsidy
    • The applicant is an individual, company, or organization that proposes to establish public charging infrastructure.
    • Projects shall be designed according to the guidelines of the EVSE as cleared by the Government and Grid Code.
  2. Documents Required
    • Ownership or tenancy of the proposed location.
    • Technical drawings for the proposed infrastructure and the equipment to be installed.
    • Financial projections and estimates.
    • Compliance certificates in terms of local legislations.
  3. Application Process
    Central Scheme
    • Online Application through FAME II portal or the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
    • State Schemes Apply through the respective state government portals or nodal agencies designated by the state.
  4. Time Lines Application Processing time is around 4 to 8 weeks depending on scheme and completeness of application.

     

Role of Public Private Partnerships

Public private partnership is one among the corner stones of scaled -up EV Charging networks.
Role of Public sector 1.Provision of grant, land as well as expertise.
Role of private sector 2. Investment in Technology, Infrastructures as well as operation

Govt scheme