Karnataka Government Introduces Progressive Battery Swapping Policy for Two-Wheeler Fleets

In a significant move to accelerate electric vehicle adoption, the Karnataka government today unveiled its new 'EV Battery Swapping Policy 2025' specifically targeting electric two-wheeler fleets, including last-mile delivery services and ride-sharing platforms. The policy aims to create a robust ecosystem for battery swapping stations across Bangalore and other major urban centers in the state, making EV ownership more convenient and economically viable for commercial operators. Key provisions include subsidies for establishing battery swapping infrastructure, standardized battery specifications to ensure interoperability among different manufacturers, and incentives for fleet owners transitioning to swap-enabled electric two-wheelers. The government anticipates that this policy will significantly reduce the upfront cost of electric two-wheelers for businesses, as they can opt for vehicles without batteries, paying for energy consumption on a 'pay-per-swap' model. This initiative is expected to attract substantial investment in battery manufacturing and swapping technology, fostering local innovation and job creation. The Transport Department stated that the first phase of implementation would see 500 swapping stations operational in Bengaluru by Q2 2026, with plans for expansion to other cities thereafter. This policy positions Karnataka at the forefront of sustainable urban mobility solutions.