The government has proposed extending the permissible age of battery-operated, hydrogen fuel-based and natural gas-driven commercial vehicles covered under the national permit system by five years. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the proposal is part of a draft amendment to simplify the national permit procedures and increase digitisation.
Under the proposed changes, the existing age limits of 12 years and 15 years for vehicles covered by the national permit system would be extended to 17 years and 20 years, respectively, for battery, hydrogen and natural gas vehicles, it added. However, the proposed extension would not apply to all commercial vehicles and would be limited to vehicles.
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Hence, under the proposed framework, MoRTH plans to extend the lifespan of electric vehicles (EVs), as well as those powered by hydrogen and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), by an additional five years. The move is expected to serve as a major financial incentive for fleet owners and commercial transporters, encouraging them to shift away from traditional diesel and petrol engines toward cleaner fuel alternatives by making green investments viable for a longer duration.
National Permits to Go Completely Digital
Easing the operational and bureaucratic hurdles for commercial vehicle operators, the ministry has also proposed fully digitizing the National Permit system. Under the new guidelines, National Permits for commercial transport will be applied for and granted entirely online. This transition to a digital, paperless system is designed to eliminate red tape, drastically reduce processing times, and ensure a transparent, hassle-free environment for transporters operating across state borders.
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Trade-Certificate Framework Expanded
Expanding the regulatory scope of the auto sector, MoRTH has proposed bringing automotive component manufacturers into the trade-certificate framework. Currently, the trade certificates are largely applicable to vehicle dealers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Including component makers in this framework will allow them to test and transport parts, paving the way for easier compliance, regulatory tracking, and streamlined operations in the auto manufacturing ecosystem.
The decision comes amid efforts to promote cleaner commercial transport. Moreover, the VAHAN database could also be used to reduce paperwork. The draft also proposes changes to temporary registration rules. Additionally, the proposed amendments also seek additional information in vehicle registration and permit forms. The ministry has invited objections and suggestions on the proposed amendments for 30 days from the date the notification is made available to the public.
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