Telangana launches ₹200-crore electric vehicle conversion scheme for autos

The Telangana government has launched the Telangana Autorickshaw Electric Conversion Scheme, allocating ₹200 crore to transition urban transport toward net-zero carbon emissions. The first phase of the initiative targets 18,766 petrol and diesel autorickshaws within the Telangana Core Urban Region (CURE), including 11,254 diesel and 7,512 petrol vehicles.

Eligible owners can choose between two options: converting their existing vehicle by replacing the engine with an AIS-123 standard electric kit—with choices for fixed or swappable battery systems—or scrapping the old vehicle to purchase a new electric three-wheeler. The government will provide financial assistance of up to ₹1.50 lakh per vehicle, which will be applied directly to the on-road price when purchasing new vehicles through approved dealers.

The scheme is part of the Telangana Rising Vision 2047 plan, aiming to reduce air and noise pollution in urban areas while lowering fuel costs and operating expenses for drivers.