The Indian Ministry of Heavy Industries has expanded the PM E-DRIVE scheme to include electric ambulances, allocating ₹500 crore to support the adoption of 3,811 e-ambulances over the next two financial years. The scheme targets 1,797 units in FY27 and 2,014 units in FY28, aiming to boost electric vehicle use in healthcare, according to inc42.com.
The government’s notification issued on June 17 details eligibility criteria, incentive structures, performance standards, and localisation requirements for electric ambulances. The scheme covers three ambulance categories—patient transport vehicles (Type B), basic life support (Type C), and advanced life support (Type D)—as defined under AIS 125. Incentives will be the lower of ₹30,000 per kWh of battery capacity or 35% of the vehicle’s ex-factory price, excluding medical equipment costs. Both private buyers and government entities, including central and state departments and PSUs, qualify for the incentives.
This move aligns with India’s broader push to electrify transport and reduce emissions, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare. By including ambulances, the government addresses a niche yet vital segment, complementing existing EV incentives for passenger vehicles and commercial fleets. The ₹500 crore allocation and clear incentive framework provide a structured approach to accelerate e-ambulance adoption, potentially improving emergency healthcare delivery while supporting domestic manufacturing through localisation norms.
The scheme’s implementation begins in FY27 with a target of 1,797 electric ambulances, followed by 2,014 units in FY28. The notification’s detailed guidelines ensure transparency and encourage participation from both private and public sectors, marking a significant step in India’s EV policy landscape.