PM E-DRIVE scheme

Why in news?

The Centre has unveiled operational guidelines for the rollout of nearly 72,300 public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the country, under the PM E-DRIVE scheme.

• PM E-DRIVE – PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement Scheme
• Replaces – FAME-II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India) Scheme.
• Aim – To accelerate EV adoption and establish essential charging infrastructure across the country, promoting cleaner and more sustainable transportation.
• Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI).
• Project Implementation Agency – Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL)
• Key objectives –
  • To speed up the transition to electric vehicles by offering upfront incentives for EV purchases and encouraging the development of charging infrastructure.
  • To reduce transportation-related environmental impacts and improve air quality while also promoting an efficient and competitive EV manufacturing sector.
• Key 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).
  • Manufacturing ecosystem – It supports the domestic manufacturing of EVs and their components through a Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP).
  • Testing and Upgradation – The program provides funding to modernize testing agencies under the Ministry of Heavy Industries to ensure quality standards for EVs.
• Eligible categories of vehicles – e-bus; e-3 wheelers including registered e-rickshaws & e-carts; e-2 wheelers; e-ambulances (electric, plug in hybrid & strong hybrid); and e-trucks and other new emerging EV categories.
• Guidelines – For availing subsidy for vehicle charging stations, battery swapping stations, and battery charging stations offering up to 100% subsidies.
• The guidelines identify entities that are eligible for subsidies and offer support for the deployment of upstream infrastructure costs, and in certain cases, also for EV Supply Equipment (EVSE) costs.

Upstream infrastructure includes distribution transformers, low- and high-tension cables, distribution boxes, circuit breakers/isolators, mounting structures, fencing, and civil works. EVSE consists of EV chargers including charging guns.

References

1. The Hindu | Subsidy for EV charging infrastructure under PM E-Drive
2. Vikaspedia | PM E-DRIVE Scheme