Petrol and Diesel Vehicles Can Run Until End‑of‑Life, New Rules Clarified

Delhi's chief minister made it clear that owners of existing gasoline and diesel vehicles will not be forced to scrap their cars immediately. Under the upcoming EV policy, such vehicles will be allowed to operate until they complete their legally defined service period.

The government will not impose any early retirement or conversion mandates. Instead, it will respect the original registration terms, giving owners time to plan for a future replacement if they choose.

The phased roll‑out begins with electric auto‑rickshaws on 1 January 2027 and expands to electric two‑wheelers in April 2028. Until those dates, petrol and diesel auto‑rickshaws and motorcycles may continue to be used, registered, and serviced as before.

This approach is intended to avoid undue pressure on motorists while still moving Delhi toward a cleaner, low‑emission transport ecosystem. The chief minister highlighted that the policy’s gradual nature is essential for its success and for ensuring that the massive public investment translates into real environmental benefits.