India Proposes Extending Life of Clean Commercial Vehicles

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed a draft amendment to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, to extend the permissible age of commercial vehicles powered by batteries, hydrogen fuel, and natural gas. Under the national permit system, existing age limits of 12 and 15 years would increase to 17 and 20 years, respectively.

This policy shift aims to assist operators in recovering the higher upfront costs associated with cleaner vehicles, a challenge highlighted in a 2025 electric truck adoption report by NITI Aayog. The proposal also introduces digital permit procedures, enabling operators to purchase five-year authorizations for ₹82,500 as an alternative to annual renewals.

To streamline administration, the ministry suggests using the VAHAN database to automate paperwork and requires vehicle owners to provide Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers. The draft further updates temporary registration rules for chassis and built vehicles and involves the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research in approving automotive component manufacturers for the trade certificate framework. The ministry has opened a 30-day window for public objections and suggestions.