E-Ambulance

The Indian government plans to promote E-ambulances, collaborating with health ministries to establish specifications under the PM E-Drive scheme.

The heavy industries ministry and health ministry are working together to promote electric ambulances in India. Both the ministries will conduct a meeting regarding smart ambulances next week.

This meeting will establish the technical specifications necessary for these vehicles. The discussions will focus on the weight of ambulances and the heavy medical equipment they carry. This is crucial for ensuring safety and performance during electrification.

Ambulances must carry heavy loads, including substantial medical equipment. Ensuring that e-ambulances can transport these loads quickly and safely is a key discussion point with the health ministry.

The promotion of E-Ambulance is being taken forward under the PM E-Drive scheme. The scheme aims to sell various electric vehicles, including e-ambulances, at subsidized prices. With a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore, government has allocated ₹500 crore for e-ambulance production over the next two years, ending FY26.

This scheme replaces the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (and Hybrid) Vehicles (FAME) program, marking a significant advancement in India's push for e-mobility.

The Centre previously stated it would collaborate with stakeholders to set performance and safety standards for e-ambulances.

The government’s initiative supports India’s broader goal of achieving 30% electric vehicle adoption by 2030. There are over 30,000 ambulances currently operating in the country.

Electrifying this sector could significantly support the nation’s e-mobility objectives. Electric vehicles offer cost benefits, being cheaper to maintain and operate.

They also provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered options. In addition to e-ambulances, the scheme will also focus on electrifying trucks and buses.

E-truck manufacturers must adhere to a Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) certified scrapping policy. This adds an eco-friendly element to the initiative. A substantial 40% of the scheme's total outlay will subsidize electric buses.