Retrofitting India's Mobility: Evolving Regulations for Electric Vehicle Conversions

The Policy Framework for EV Retrofitting

The Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) form the backbone of India’s legal framework for EV retrofitting. Rule 112A, introduced in 2021, specifically allows internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to be converted to electric vehicles through certified retrofitting kits. These kits must be approved by authorized testing agencies, such as ARAI or ICAT, in accordance with defined technical standards under AIS‑123. These standards govern everything from structural integrity and battery placement to high-voltage safety, braking systems, and motor performance.

In addition to kit-level approval, installation must be carried out only by garages or service centers authorized by these certifying bodies. Once the retrofitting is complete, the vehicle’s fuel type is required to be updated on the Registration Certificate (RC), following physical inspection by the respective state’s Regional Transport Office (RTO).

The Role of Regulatory Bodies

The central policymaking lies with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), which issues overarching guidelines and updates to the CMVR. ARAI and ICAT are empowered to test and certify retrofit kits based on safety, performance, and environmental compliance. However, the critical last-mile implementation lies with State Transport Authorities and local RTOs, who inspect, validate, and endorse the retrofit on official records.

This decentralised model has led to uneven enforcement. While central policies are in place, interpretation and application vary widely across states, with many regions yet to fully operationalize retrofitting rules.

Emerging State-Level Models

Delhi has emerged as the frontrunner in enabling EV retrofitting. The state government has not only streamlined the RC endorsement process but is also offering policy incentives for retrofitted vehicles under its revised electric vehicle policy. Delhi aims to retrofit at least three percent of older vehicles by 2026 and has announced innovation challenges to accelerate the development of cost-effective retrofit technologies.

Other states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have shown positive intent but are still grappling with capacity limitations and administrative bottlenecks. Some RTOs are reluctant to approve retrofitted vehicles due to lack of technical understanding or infrastructure to inspect EV conversions. In such states, even vehicles fitted with certified kits face difficulties in getting their fuel type officially updated.

Recent Push Through Innovation and Policy

Delhi’s government has launched targeted programs such as innovation challenges offering financial rewards to startups or developers who create viable retrofit solutions for older vehicle categories, especially BS-IV trucks. These efforts are coupled with support for training institutions, job creation, and integration with the city’s clean air agenda. Other urban centers are also beginning to embed EV retrofitting within their larger green mobility policies, though progress remains uneven.

Alongside these efforts, the extension of state EV policies and the development of charging infrastructure every 5 kilometers are creating a more conducive environment for the retrofitting ecosystem to thrive. The government also plans to deploy public-private partnerships to scale innovations and overcome technical and financial barriers.

Current Bottlenecks and Structural Issues

Despite the regulatory groundwork, several challenges persist. Retrofitting remains expensive, especially for four-wheelers, where structural and safety modifications demand greater scrutiny. Certification processes for kits are slow and can take months, discouraging entrepreneurs and manufacturers from entering the space. Furthermore, no specific incentives or subsidies under schemes like FAME-II are extended to retrofitted vehicles, making the economics less viable for consumers.

Another major issue is the limited availability of certified garages, trained mechanics, and inspection labs across the country. In the absence of adequate infrastructure, many retrofitting activities risk being carried out in informal settings, posing safety hazards.

The Road Ahead: Policy and Market Recommendations

To unlock the full potential of EV retrofitting, the central government needs to integrate it within mainstream EV policy and funding frameworks. Including retrofitted EVs under national incentive schemes would make conversions more attractive to consumers and fleet operators alike. There is also an urgent need to expand ARAI/ICAT capacity or authorize regional centers to issue type approvals in a time-bound manner.

Capacity-building initiatives targeting RTOs, garage operators, and vehicle owners can help standardize implementation and avoid discrepancies. Additionally, a centralized digital registry of approved kits, authorized installers, and RC endorsements would enhance transparency and streamline compliance tracking.

Retrofitting offers India a scalable pathway to decarbonize its massive ICE vehicle fleet without waiting for full fleet replacement. With the right mix of policy clarity, institutional support, and market incentives, this segment can become a game-changer in India’s transition to sustainable mobility.