MoRTH Draft 2026 Proposes Higher Power Limit for Low-Speed Electric Vehicles

Key Facts

• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) issued a draft notification on 21 August 2026 to amend Rule 2(u) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
• The draft proposes raising the permissible motor power for low-speed electric vehicles from 250W (0.25 kW) to 600W (0.6 kW).
• The maximum speed limit remains capped at 25 km/h for these vehicles to qualify for exemption from registration.
• The existing 60 kg unladen weight limit on exempted low-speed EVs is proposed to be removed.
• Vehicles under the exemption will continue to not require conventional registration or inclusion in the Vahan vehicle-registration database.
• Exempt vehicles must comply with the safety requirements under Annex A of AIS-049 (Rev. 1) and be tested and certified by authorized agencies as per AIS-041 (Rev. 1).
• The industry is divided: full-service original equipment manufacturers like BGauss support the expansion, while companies like Yulu raise concerns about safety and regulatory enforcement.
• The proposed amendments are expected to be implemented from 1 October 2026.

Background & Context

Current regulations under Rule 2(u) of the CMVR (1989) define low-speed electric vehicles as those with a motor power up to 250 watts and maximum speed under 25 km/h, exempting them from mandatory vehicle registration, driving licences, helmet requirements, and number plates. These provisions aimed to promote affordable and accessible micromobility while ensuring safety under defined parameters. However, evolving technology, increased commercial use—especially in delivery fleets—and market demands have led MoRTH to propose increasing the power threshold and removing weight limits to better reflect current realities. Complementary safety standards AIS-049 and testing protocols AIS-041 ensure that vehicles under this exemption maintain essential safety features despite relaxed registration norms.

Why This Matters for Exams

This proposed amendment is a key development in India's approach to regulating electric mobility, an increasingly important topic given the government's focus on sustainable transport and clean energy transitions. Competitive exams often include questions on transport regulations, environmental initiatives, and recent amendments in central laws. Understanding the role of MoRTH, specific rules under the CMVR, categorization of electric vehicles, and safety regulations (AIS standards) forms an essential part of current affairs and policy-related sections. This knowledge helps contextualize India's regulatory stance on emerging vehicle technologies and the balancing of innovation with public safety.

Points to Remember

• MoRTH's draft notification dated 21 August 2026 proposes amendments to CMVR Rule 2(u) regarding low-speed EVs.
• The motor power limit for exemption is raised from 250W to 600W; maximum speed limit remains 25 km/h.
• The 60 kg unladen weight limit is proposed to be removed to accommodate heavier EV models.
• Vehicles remain exempt from registration, licence, and do not appear in the Vahan database if they comply with specifications.
• Mandatory compliance with AIS-049 safety standard and certification via AIS-041 testing agencies is required.
• Industry opinion is split: expanded market opportunities vs. concerns over potential safety risks and enforcement challenges.
• The expected implementation date is 1 October 2026.

Practice MCQs

Question 1

1. When was the MoRTH draft notification proposing changes to low-speed electric vehicles issued?
2. 2024
3. 2025
4. 21 August 2026
5. 1 October 2026

Answer: 21 August 2026

Question 2

1. What is the proposed new motor power limit for low-speed electric vehicles under the 2026 draft?
2. 250W (0.25 kW)
3. 600W (0.6 kW)
4. 1000W (1 kW)
5. 1500W (1.5 kW)

Answer: 600W (0.6 kW)

Question 3

1. Which safety standard must low-speed electric vehicles comply with under the proposed draft?
2. AIS-041
3. AIS-049
4. Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989
5. Vahan Database Registration

Answer: AIS-049