Centre moots flexible sourcing norms for electric ambulances

The heavy industries ministry has proposed new localization rules for e-ambulances under the ₹10,900 crore PM E-drive scheme, allowing manufacturers to import traction motors fitted with rare earth magnets till 3 March 2026, the ministry said in response to Mint’s email query.

- Manas Pimpalkhare

The government has allocated ₹500 crore to boost electric and hybrid ambulances.

(AF)

The draft phased manufacturing programme (PMP) for e-ambulances, a copy of which was reviewed by Mint, proposed that battery management systems, DC-DC converters and traction motors fitted with rare earth magnets can be imported till 3 March 2026. The draft indicated that the government wants heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, charging inlets, electric compressors for brakes, traction battery packs and vehicle control units to be sourced domestically.