India may allow e-ambulance manufacturers to import traction motors fitted with rare earth magnets till March
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. NEW DELHI: 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.
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.
The ministry plans to take inputs from stakeholders on the draft PMP for e-ambulances, it said in its response to Mint’s query.
“E-ambulances are the newest segment in India’s EV transition, and it is understandable that OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) have been cautious in committing to localization due to an uncertain demand outlook," said Amit Bhatt, India director of the International Council on Clean Transportation, a global think tank.