New Delhi, June 10 -- The Indian government has introduced a new scheme to encourage global auto firms to make electric cars in India. It will allow companies to import a limited number of electric cars at an import duty of 15%, far lower than the existing duties of 70-110%.

Companies approved under the scheme will be able to import 8,000 electric cars valued at $35,000 or more at the subsidised rate each year.

However, there's a condition. The lower duty will apply only if the company commits to investing Rs.4,150 crore to manufacture electric cars in India within three years of receiving approval.

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The scheme also promotes the Make in India initiative by mandati...