The rise of electric bikes as a sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation has led to a shift in policies, regulations and laws to accommodate these vehicles. According to Moody’s, government incentives such as consumer benefits, local battery production, state-level subsidies, and reduced GST rates will boost EV adoption in India. Hence, for an emerging sector like electric mobility, it is important to have a concrete legal framework.
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This comprehensive guide explores the electric bike laws in India, providing detailed information on the various categories and regulations governing their use.
The Legal Framework
India’s legal framework for electric bikes is dynamic and evolving to embrace this emerging mode of transportation. Starting April 1, 2019, all registered vehicles, including electric ones, must adhere to the High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) mandate under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. Private electric vehicles receive a distinct green background number plate with white lettering.
Following are some more electric bike laws by state:
1. Licence for Electric bikes
In India, a valid driver’s licence is mandatory for operating motorised vehicles. Electric bikes are no exception. The Motor Vehicles Act stipulates that riders must possess a valid licence to ride their electric bikes legally.
However, there is an exception! If a low speed electric bike like Yulu has a maximum speed of 25 kmph, then you do not require a driver’s licence to operate it.
Why doesn’t Yulu need a Driving licence?
2. Registration of the Vehicle
After purchasing your electric bike, it’s essential to register it with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Electric vehicles (EVs) are identifiable by their distinctive number plates with a green background and white-coloured text. Failure to register your vehicle can lead to legal issues, hefty fines, and even the impoundment of your vehicle.
3. Insurance for Your EV
The Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 mandates that you must have insurance coverage for every two-wheeler. You can opt for either third-party electric bike insurance or comprehensive bike insurance. The premium for insurance is influenced by factors such as the battery capacity of the vehicle.
4. Tax on the Vehicle
During the registration process for your electric bike or scooter, you will be required to pay road tax. Each state in India has set its own road tax limits for vehicles. However, under the government’s Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, electric vehicles are exempt from paying road tax during registration. This scheme, aimed at promoting electric vehicles, offers various subsidies and incentives.
Additionally, some states, like West Bengal, provide substantial subsidies and 100% road tax exemptions as per their respective e-bike laws.
5. Helmet While Riding the Vehicle
Safety is paramount for two-wheeler riders in India. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways strongly emphasises that all two-wheeler riders, including electric bike riders, must wear helmets while on the road.
Read some of the safety actions you can take while riding an EV in the rain.
Yulu and LSEVs
Yulu, a prominent player in the electric bike rental space, offers low-speed electric bikes (LSEVs) as part of its mobility solution. The electric bikes are designed to be user-friendly, eco-friendly, and legally compliant with India’s regulations for LSEVs. Yulu’s LSEVs, with their top speed of 25 kmph, align perfectly with the electric bike legal framework in India.
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The electric bike laws by state are evolving to accommodate this eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation. From high-speed electric bikes that require licences and registration to mid-speed electric bikes with varying regulations, the choices are diverse.
LSEVs, exemplified by Yulu’s offerings, have emerged as a hassle-free and accessible option for urban commuting. With no driver’s licence or vehicle registration required, Yulu’s LSEVs are not only legal but also an environmentally responsible choice. As India continues to prioritise sustainable mobility, LSEVs are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban mobility in the country.
FAQs
Q1. Electric bikes: Are they legal for everyday commuting in India?
A: Electric bikes are indeed legal for everyday commuting in India. The legal framework categorises them according to speed, each with specific regulations.
Q2. What are the licence requirements for riding electric bikes in India?
A: The licencing requirements depend on the category of electric bike. However, Yulu’s low-speed electric bikes (LSEVs) do not require licences or vehicle registration.
Q3. How can Yulu’s LSEVs contribute to sustainable urban mobility?
A: Yulu’s LSEVs offer an eco-friendly and convenient mode of transportation, reducing air pollution, traffic congestion, and individual carbon footprints. By providing a clean and accessible option for urban commuters, Yulu’s LSEVs play a vital role in enhancing the sustainability of Indian cities.
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