Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has hinted at a change that could make life easier for electric truck operators. Speaking at an industry event, he said the government is considering whether electric trucks should be exempted from certain toll charges.
The reason is simple, electric trucks are heavier than their diesel counterparts, mainly because of the weight of their large battery packs. On average, they carry about two tonnes more, which pushes them into a higher toll category. That means operators end up paying more, even though the vehicles are cleaner and better for the environment.
Why Electric Trucks Pay More at Tolls
In India, toll fees are calculated based on a vehicle’s gross weight, not just its type. Since electric trucks weigh more due to their batteries, they often face steeper charges. This has become a sore point for fleet owners who are already grappling with higher upfront costs of switching to electric. Gadkari acknowledged this imbalance and suggested that offering relief could help level the field.
A Step Toward Cleaner Transport
The idea, Gadkari explained, is not just about reducing toll expenses but also about encouraging the wider use of clean energy in the transport sector. India spends billions each year importing fuel, and shifting to electric freight could bring that bill down significantly. “We need to make clean trucks more attractive,” Gadkari stressed, pointing out that small policy changes can have a big impact on long-term sustainability.
Why the Industry Says Yes
Several business leaders who attended the discussion backed the proposal. They argued that waiving or lowering tolls for electric and hydrogen-powered trucks would make the transition to greener logistics smoother. Lower operating costs could encourage more companies to adopt zero-emission vehicles, speeding up the shift to a cleaner freight ecosystem.
Big Changes Coming to Tolls
This isn’t the only toll-related change on the government’s radar. Earlier this year, Gadkari announced plans for a uniform toll policy that aims to simplify charges for all road users. The ministry is also working on satellite-based GNSS tolling technology, which could eventually eliminate physical toll booths altogether and make payments seamless. Introducing exemptions for electric trucks could easily fit within this larger reform.
What It Could Mean Going Forward
If toll exemptions for electric trucks are approved, it would be more than just a financial relief. it would be a signal that the government is serious about supporting sustainable transport. For logistics companies, it would lower operating costs. For India as a whole, it could accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels and toward cleaner alternatives. As Gadkari put it, small steps like this can go a long way in shaping the future of mobility. And for electric trucks, a lighter toll bill might just be the nudge the industry needs to drive change.