Panchkula, Aug. 6 -- While Chandigarh races ahead with aggressive policies promoting electric vehicles (EVs), neighbouring Panchkula is witnessing a sluggish uptake, primarily due to the absence of state-level incentives and high road tax rates in Haryana. The stark policy contrast between the two cities is creating a gap in EV adoption.

According to official data, EV registrations in Panchkula remain minimal. In the last seven months, only 115 electric two-wheelers and 27 electric four-wheelers were registered. Out of 9,329 two-wheelers registered in 2024, only 105 were EVs. Similarly, out of 4,878 four-wheelers, only 1 EV and 106 hybrid EVs were registered.

The primary deterrent, say experts and buyers, is the 8% road tax levied on EV...