Long story short: Learn about India’s 2025 subsidies for electric scooters and bikes, including PM E-DRIVE, EMPS 2024, eligibility, state incentives, and claim process.
Both central and state governments in India offer subsidies to help people buy electric scooters and motorcycles. To take advantage, learn about who is eligible, what support is available, and how to apply. Being informed can help you save money.
The government has launched subsidy programs, such as EMPS and PM E-DRIVE, along with additional state incentives. These programs are designed to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for everyone.
These programs can help you reduce the cost of buying an electric scooter or motorcycle in India. Review the eligibility requirements, current subsidy amounts, and the application process. This way, you can get the most out of the available benefits.
Whether you’re just exploring or ready to buy, keeping up with the latest government and state programs can help you pick the right electric scooter or bike and save more money.
Key Takeaways
- Main National Subsidy Schemes: PM E-DRIVE is available from October 2024 to March 2026. For the 2024-25 financial year, it provides ₹5,000 per kWh, and for the 2025-26 financial year, the amount is ₹2,500 per kWh. The maximum subsidy is ₹10,000 per vehicle in the first year and ₹5,000 in the second year. EMPS 2024, which offered ₹5,000 per kWh from April to September 2024, has now been merged into PM E-DRIVE
- State-Level Incentives: States offer a range of benefits. In some states, you can get subsidies up to ₹30,000, plus tax waivers and scrapping bonuses. Other states may only provide tax waivers. The support you receive depends on the specific policy of each state.
- Subsidy Eligibility: To qualify for a subsidy, the electric vehicle must be new and meet set criteria. Buyers must be Indian residents aged 18 or older, and each person is eligible for one subsidy per category.
- Process: You receive the subsidy at the time of purchase. You will need to show identification, the purchase invoice, and RTO registration. In some states, you may also need to complete online registration.
- Purpose: The program is designed to improve air quality, reduce fossil fuel imports, and support local EV manufacturing. After March 2026, subsidies for two-wheelers will stop, and the focus will move to commercial EVs and charging stations.
Why is there a subsidy for electric scooters and motorcycles in India ?
The primary objective of subsidies for electric scooters and motorcycles in India is to accelerate the adoption of cleaner, more environmentally friendly transportation. Here are the main reasons for these subsidies:
1. Climate Change Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement
- Two-wheelers and scooters are a significant source of urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions due to the extensive use of petrol and diesel.
- Subsidies lower the upfront cost of electric vehicles (EVs), encouraging consumers to switch from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to zero-emission electric alternatives.
- Switching to electric vehicles helps lower India’s carbon footprint and improves air quality, which benefits both health and the environment.
2. Energy Security and Fossil Fuel Reduction
- India depends a lot on imported oil for transport fuel.
- Promoting electric two-wheelers reduces oil imports, which strengthens India’s energy security and supports the economy.
- Electric vehicles also help use renewable energy in transport.
3. Building Domestic Manufacturing and Innovation
- These subsidies are designed to encourage local manufacturing of electric vehicles, including making batteries, motors, and assembling the vehicles.
- By linking subsidies to the Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP), the government encourages technology growth, creates jobs, and supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
4. Affordability and Market Development
- Electric scooters and motorcycles cost more up front than petrol ones due to battery and technology costs.
- Subsidies help close the price gap, making electric vehicles more affordable for more people and supporting market growth.
- Early buyers supported by subsidies help boost production, lower costs as more are made, and push new ideas.
5. Alignment with National and Global EV Targets
- India wants 30% of vehicles to be electric by 2030 to cut air pollution.
- Programs like FAME I & II, EMPS, and PM E-DRIVE help reach these targets by encouraging people to buy electric two-wheelers.
- These programs also support India’s global commitments to climate action and building greener cities.
Subsidies for electric scooters and motorcycles in India help more people choose clean transportation, support local industry, and make green vehicles more affordable.
What are the eligibility criteria to get a subsidy on an electric scooter and bike in India?
To get a subsidy on an electric scooter or bike in India, you must meet these requirements:
- Buy your scooter or bike from a seller or maker approved by the Ministry of Heavy Industries under the current subsidy plan.
- The vehicle should have an advanced battery, ideally a lithium-ion one. Lead-acid batteries are not accepted.
- Your electric two-wheeler needs to have a range of at least 80 km and a top speed of 40 km/h or more, depending on its category.
- The vehicle must be registered with the regional transport office and meet your state’s EV rules. State-level incentives may also apply.
- You must be an Indian citizen and at least 18 years old.
- Each person can get a subsidy for only one electric two-wheeler in each category.
- You’ll need to verify your identity, usually with an Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Only one mobile number is allowed per claim.
- Government departments and agencies cannot receive subsidies for these vehicles.
- Subsidies are only available for new EVs that are made and registered during the subsidy period.
- You can’t get a subsidy for resold or used EVs. Only first-time purchases qualify.
How to get a subsidy on an electric scooter or motorcycle in India?
Here’s how you can get a subsidy for an electric scooter in India:
1. Choose an Eligible Electric Scooter Model
- Pick a scooter model that’s approved for the government subsidy and listed by the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
- Make sure the scooter has advanced batteries like lithium-ion and meets the required standards, such as a range of about 80 km and a top speed of at least 40 km/h.
2. Purchase from an Authorised Dealer or OEM
- Buy your scooter from an authorised dealer who is registered under the subsidy scheme.
- You can only get the subsidy if you buy through authorised channels. This helps prevent misuse.
3. Be an Eligible Buyer
- Check that you are an Indian citizen and at least 18 years old.
- Make sure you haven’t already claimed a subsidy for another electric two-wheeler in this category.
- If you work for a government department or agency, you aren’t eligible to apply.
4. Complete RTO Registration
- Register your new electric scooter at your local Regional Transport Office, following your state’s EV rules.
- If your state gives extra subsidies, sign up on the official EV portal as your state directs.
5. Subsidy Applied at Point of Purchase
- You’ll get the subsidy as a discount on your invoice when you buy from the dealer.
- You don’t need to fill out a separate subsidy application.
6. Documentation
- Provide the dealer with your identity and address proof, such as your Aadhaar or PAN card.
- Check that your purchase invoice and registration documents are correct and complete.
7. Verification and Confirmation
- Verify your identity during the claim process, for example, by using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Let the dealer upload your subsidy claim online through the portal using an e-voucher.
If you follow these steps, you can get the central subsidy. You may also qualify for extra state subsidies, depending on each state’s rules.
What is EMPS 2024 and PM E-DRIVE for electric scooters and motorcycles in India?
EMPS 2024 and PM E-DRIVE are Indian government programs aimed at accelerating the adoption and production of electric scooters, bicycles, and three-wheelers.
EMPS 2024
- EMPS 2024 started in April 2024 with a limited budget of ₹500 crore. It was later extended for six months, until September 30, 2024, and the budget increased to ₹778 crore.
- The scheme aimed to promote electric two- and three-wheelers for both commercial and private use, including vehicles owned and registered by companies.
- Only vehicles with advanced batteries, mainly lithium-ion, could get EMPS subsidies. This rule encouraged the use of newer technology.
- The subsidy was set at ₹5,000 per kWh, with a maximum of ₹10,000 per vehicle or 15% of the ex-factory price, whichever is lower.
- The scheme required vehicles to meet the Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP) rules. This helped boost local manufacturing and supply chains, supporting the growth of India’s EV industry.
- EMPS 2024 concluded on September 30, 2024. Following its conclusion, EMPS 2024 was merged into the PM E-DRIVE scheme.
PM E-DRIVE Scheme
- PM E-DRIVE began October 1, 2024, as a broader, longer-term program, running until March 31, 2026, or 2028 for some vehicles.
- It provides ₹10,900 crore over two years for 24.79 lakh electric vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and commercial vehicles.
- The subsidy is ₹5,000 per kWh for the 2024-25 fiscal year and drops to ₹2,500 per kWh for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
- Caps are similar to EMPS. The scheme offers incentives and capital grants for e-buses, charging stations, and project management, requires advanced batteries, and aims to boost domestic manufacturing.
- It operates nationwide, targeting reduced fossil fuel use and carbon emissions.
EMPS 2024 was a short-term program that gave a ₹5,000 per kWh subsidy before the larger, longer-term PM E-DRIVE program started. PM E-DRIVE now offers lower subsidies to support the market’s growth and boost local manufacturing.
What is the timeline of EMPS 2024 and PM E-DRIVE electric scooter & bike subsidy scheme in India?
Here is a timeline outlining the key events for the EMPS 2024 and PM E-DRIVE schemes for electric scooters and bikes, extending up to 2025.
EMPS 2024 Scheme Timeline
Launch: April 1, 2024
Following the end of FAME II, EMPS 2024 was introduced as a temporary subsidy program to continue support for electric two-wheelers.
Initial Duration: April 1, 2024 – July 31, 2024 (4 months)
The scheme first set aside ₹500 crore to help subsidise the purchase of 3.33 lakh electric two-wheelers.
Extension: August 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024 (extended by 2 months)
Due to high demand and easier administration, EMPS was extended. The budget grew to ₹778 crore. The new goal was 5 lakh electric vehicles.
Subsidy Rates
₹5,000 per kWh of battery capacity
Maximum subsidy: ₹10,000 per vehicle or 15% of ex-factory price.
The EMPS scheme ended on September 30, 2024. On the very next day, October 1, 2024, the PM E-DRIVE scheme began, providing a direct continuation of the subsidy program under a new structure.
PM E-DRIVE Scheme Timeline
Launch: October 1, 2024
PM E-DRIVE took over from EMPS as the new scheme. It offers broader subsidies and more support for infrastructure than the previous program.
FY 2024-25 Period: October 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025
Subsidy rate for electric two-wheelers: ₹5,000 per kWh, with a maximum of ₹10,000 per vehicle or 15% of the ex-factory price.
FY 2025-26 Period: April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026
The subsidy rate dropped to ₹2,500 per kWh, with a maximum of ₹5,000 or 15% of the ex-factory price.
Budget and Targets
₹10,900 crore allocated for two years, covering 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers.
Subsidy Claim Extension
In late 2025, the government extended the deadline for subsidy claims by 45 days. This extension helped resolve delays caused by administrative and portal issues.
Future Extension for Commercial EVs
In August 2025, the government extended the PM E-DRIVE subsidies until March 31, 2028, for commercial vehicles, including buses and trucks. Subsidies for two- and three-wheelers are still set to expire on March 31, 2026.
What is the subsidy structure of EMPS 2024 and PE E-DRIVE for electric scooters and motorcycles in India?
Here’s a summary table of the subsidy structure for EMPS 2024 and PM E-DRIVE schemes for electric scooters and motorcycles in India.
| Scheme | Period | Subsidy rate (Rs/kWh) | Maximum Subsidy per Vehicle | Eligibility Battery Type | Target Units Covered | Budget Allocation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EMPS 2024 | April 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2024 | Rs 5,000 | Rs10,000 or 15% of ex-factory price (whichever is lower) | Advanced batteries (Li-ion) | 5.00 lakh e-2W units | Rs 778 crore | Transitional scheme post-FAME II, emphasis on domestic manufacturing, advanced batteries mandatory |
| PM E-DRIVE | Oct 1, 2024 – Mar 31, 2025 | Rs 5,000 | Rs10,000 or 15% of ex-factory price (whichever is lower) | Advanced batteries (Li-ion) | 24.79 lakh e-2W units (2 years total) | Rs 10,900 crore (2 years) | Initial subsidy rate matching EMPS, large-scale support including various EV categories |
| PM E-DRIVE | Apr 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 | Rs 2,500 | Rs 5,000 or 15% of ex-factory price (whichever is lower) | Advanced batteries (Li-ion) | Continuation of above target | Part of Rs 10,900 crore | Subsidy rate halved for fiscal year 2025-26 to encourage market maturity and domestic production |
Which electric two-wheeler models are approved under PM E-DRIVE in India?
You can find the official list of approved two-wheeler models for the PM E-DRIVE scheme in India at https://pmedrive.heavyindustries.gov.in/models. Here’s how to make the most of this portal:
- Access the Page: First, go to the website. When you open the link in your browser, you’ll see the complete list of electric vehicle models approved under the PM E-DRIVE subsidy scheme. From here, you can explore more details on the portal.
- Model List Overview: Once you’re on the portal, look for the Model List Overview. This section shows a clear table of all approved models along with essential details.
- Filtering and Searching: The portal usually lets you filter and search the list in different ways:
1. You can search by OEM or model name.
2. You can also filter by vehicle type, such as 2W or 3W. - Model Details: To view detailed technical specifications and check a model’s eligibility under the scheme, click on the ‘Details’ or model name link.
- Use for Subsidy Eligibility: To ensure your purchase qualifies for the subsidy, verify that your chosen electric vehicle model is listed and active on the portal. Also, check the validity dates to confirm they align with your purchase timeline.
- Download and Reference: For future reference, you can download the approved model list from the portal. There are usually options to save it as an Excel or PDF file, allowing you to check it offline whenever needed.
Notes
- Buyers can verify if the electric two-wheeler they want to purchase is eligible for a government subsidy.
- Dealers and Manufacturers can check the approval status of models they sell or manufacture.
What are the specific state-level incentives available for electric scooters and bikes in India?
Many Indian states give extra incentives for electric scooters and bikes. You can combine these with central government subsidies, such as PM E-DRIVE and EMPS 2024. Here are some of the main state-level incentives:
| State | Direct Subsidy (per kWh) | Maximum Subsidy Cap | Additional Benefits | Incentive Type | Status (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs 5,000 | Rs 30,000 | Rs 5,000 scrapping bonus; 100% road tax & registration waiver | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Scrapping Bonus | Active & Comprehensive |
| Maharashtra | Rs 5,000 | Rs 25,000 | Rs 7,000 scrapping bonus; zero road tax & registration fees; early-bird incentives up to Rs10,000 | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Scrapping Bonus | Active & Comprehensive |
| Tamil Nadu | Rs 5,000 | Rs 25,000 flat + Rs 20,000 additional | 100% registration fee & road tax exemption; special delivery rider support | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active & Recently Updated |
| Gujarat | Rs 10,000 | Rs 20,000 | No registration fees; student-specific grants available | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active & Strong |
| Karnataka | Rs5,000 | Rs 15,000 + Rs 8,000 additional (2025) | 100% road tax exemption for 5 years; student & delivery personnel benefits; Rs 8,000 additional (2025) | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Student Benefits | Active & Recently Enhanced |
| Kerala | Rs10,000 | Rs 25,000 | 50% road tax exemption for 5 years; interest-free loans; e-auto rickshaw support | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Interest-free Loans | Active with Interest-free Loans |
| Telangana | Rs 5,000 or 20% of cost | Rs 10,000-Rs 15,000 | 100% registration & road tax exemption; fleet EV support | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Fleet Support | Active |
| Rajasthan | Rs 5,000-Rs 10,000 flat | Rs 10,000 | 100% road tax & registration fee waiver; direct transfer post-registration | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active |
| Assam | Rs10,000 | Rs 20,000 | Registration fee waiver; road tax exemption (1.0) | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active |
| West Bengal | Rs10,000 | Rs 20,000 | Road tax exemption; priority for women & college students | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver + Gender Benefits | Active |
| Meghalaya | Rs 10,000 | Rs 20,000 | Zero registration charges; road tax exemption | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active |
| Bihar | Rs 10,000 | Rs 20,000 | Road tax exemption (1.0) | Direct Subsidy + Tax Waiver | Active |
| Punjab | None | N/A | 100% road tax exemption; rural EV adoption focus | Tax Waiver Only | Active (Tax Only) |
| Andhra Pradesh | None | N/A | 100% exemption from registration & road tax (tax benefits only) | Tax Waiver Only | Active (Tax Only) |
| Uttar Pradesh | Rs 5,000 (limited) | Rs 7,500 | Limited Rs 5,000/kWh subsidy via upevsubsidy.in | Limited Direct Subsidy | Limited/Under Portal |
| Odisha | Minimal (~Rs5,000) | Rs 5,000 | Limited support; primarily FAME-dependent | Minimal Incentive | Limited |
| Uttarakhand | Up to Rs 5,000 (draft) | Variable | Road tax exemption; policy still under finalization | Minimal Incentive (Draft) | Draft/Finalizing |
| Madhya Pradesh | None | N/A | Road tax @ 0.99% of vehicle value only | Tax Only (No Subsidy) | Limited Support |
| Chhattisgarh | None | N/A | Limited support; relies on central schemes | Minimal Incentive | Limited Support |
FAQ about electric scooter & bike subsidy in India
1. What is the current subsidy scheme for electric scooters and motorcycles in India?
The central schemes in 2025 are the PM E-DRIVE and the replaced EMPS 2024, offering subsidies based on battery capacity and vehicle eligibility.
2. How much subsidy can I get on an electric scooter in India in 2025?
Buyers can receive ₹5,000 per kWh of battery capacity under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, with maximum caps typically ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000, depending on the model and state incentives.
3. Who is eligible to claim the subsidy for electric two-wheelers?
Indian residents over 18 years of age purchasing new electric scooters/bikes listed under approved programs from authorised dealers and registered with the RTO.
4. How to claim the electric scooter subsidy in India?
The subsidy is typically deducted upfront by authorised dealers at the time of purchase, eliminating the need for separate claims by buyers.
5. Can I get both central and state subsidies on electric scooters?
Yes, most states allow stacking of central PM E-DRIVE subsidies with additional state-level incentives, such as road tax exemptions and direct discounts.
6. Do I qualify for a subsidy if I purchase a used or second-hand electric scooter?
No, subsidies generally apply only to new purchases of electric scooters and bikes.
7. Are all electric scooter models eligible for subsidies?
No, only models approved under government schemes with advanced lithium-ion batteries and meeting minimum performance criteria are eligible.
8. What documents are needed to avail the subsidy?
Typical documents include identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN), proof of address, purchase invoice, and vehicle registration proof from authorised dealers.
9. Is the subsidy amount fixed or does it vary?
Subsidy amounts vary with battery size (in kWh) and ex-factory price caps. They can differ depending on state incentives and policy revisions.
10. What happens to subsidy schemes after March 2026?
Central subsidies for two- and three-wheelers under the PM E-DRIVE are scheduled to end by March 31, 2026; however, commercial EV subsidies and infrastructure support will continue until 2028.
Sources
- PM E-DRIVE official Website
- PM E-DRIVE 2024 – Operational Guidelines – (e-2W & e-3W)
- PM E-DRIVE 2024 – Scheme Notifications
- PM E-DRIVE 2024 – Models Approved Under PM E-DRIVE
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- Two Wheeler Road Tax in India: A Detailed Explanation
- State wise Road Tax : Navigating India’s Two Wheeler Tax
- Best bike for new riders: Key tips & Top picks
- Bikeleague India History
- Bike On-road price calculator
Conclusion
This article explained the government incentives, including EMPS and PM E-DRIVE subsidies, for electric scooters and bikes in India. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com or leave a comment below. We’re happy to help. You can also reach out to us on social media.
