India proposes 5-year age extension for EV, CNG, and hydrogen vehicles

The Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to extend the operational lifespan of cleaner fuel vehicles. Under the draft proposal, battery-operated, hydrogen-fueled, and CNG-driven commercial vehicles covered under the national permit system could see their age limits extended by five years. Specifically, the current limits of 12 and 15 years would increase to 17 and 20 years, respectively.

This initiative aims to incentivize the adoption of cleaner commercial transport and reduce the high upfront costs associated with electric vehicle fleets. The proposal also seeks to digitize and simplify the national permit process, allowing holders to opt for authorizations of up to five years at a time via electronic means.

Additional proposed changes include revising temporary registration rules for chassis and increasing the use of the VAHAN portal to reduce paperwork. The ministry has invited public objections and suggestions regarding these draft amendments.