The government is preparing a policy to regulate battery-powered auto-rickshaws across the country. The Road Transport and Highways Division (RTHD) has already drafted a preliminary version of the policy.
Vehicles such as auto-rickshaws, auto-tempos, motorcab rickshaws, three-wheel vans, and other slow-moving three-wheelers powered by electric motors and rechargeable batteries have been categorized as electric three-wheelers. These vehicles must be manufactured according to ‘specifications’ approved by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). Additionally, to operate these vehicles in Dhaka and other city corporations or in ‘A’ category municipalities, owners must obtain registration from the BRTA. The policy also makes driving licenses mandatory for operators.
Controlling the movement of electric three-wheelers on highways to reduce road accidents is one of the key objectives of the “Electric Three-Wheeler Management Guidelines 2025.” Other objectives include registering these types of motor vehicles for operation only in designated non-highway areas under a limited quota; allowing their operation in those areas only with valid registration and fitness certificates to ensure a more disciplined and safer road transport system; and bringing drivers of electric three-wheelers under proper training and licensing systems.
The policy states that electric three-wheelers will be allowed to operate in specific areas or on designated routes, excluding highways. In other words, these vehicles will not be permitted on highways. Moreover, an individual will be allowed to apply for the purchase and registration of a maximum of three such vehicles, while a company will be allowed to apply for up to 25.
According to the draft policy, authorities will issue registrations for electric three-wheelers based on a ceiling set by the local passenger and goods transport committee for each area. When setting this ceiling, factors such as population, road network, and the area’s economic importance must be taken into account. Any revision of this ceiling must be approved by the government. In addition, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the Ministry of Commerce, and the Finance Division must be informed about the set ceiling.
As per the draft, the fare for electric three-wheelers will be fixed by the BRTA. These vehicles, operating as ‘contract carriages,’ will be required to travel any route within the designated area, including short distances, without refusal. The government will also determine the economic lifespan of electric three-wheelers. Once that lifespan ends, the vehicle must be withdrawn following the ‘scrap policy.’
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) is developing a model for battery-powered auto-rickshaws. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with Mohammad Wahid Hossain, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy and Power Research Council (BEPRC).
When asked about the development of safe alternatives to battery-powered rickshaws, he told Bonik Barta, “BUET is working on three different areas. One of them is a modified version of the existing battery-powered auto-rickshaws in the country, which we commonly call ‘easybikes.’ BUET has developed an upgraded model with an improved braking system and adequate safety features for both drivers and passengers. It may cost around BDT 30,000 to upgrade one easybike. The second initiative is a complete prototype of a three-wheeler vehicle developed by BUET. This vehicle is fully safe and can be produced at a competitive price. Besides that, BUET has also developed a four-wheeler prototype. This one is mainly designed for rural areas.”
According to the policy, electric three-wheelers must display their chassis or body number engraved in a designated location. Any locally manufactured components used in these vehicles, including the motor, must be approved by the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). Additionally, manufacturers of approved models or electric three-wheeler parts must be enlisted with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) and registered with the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). Imported electric three-wheelers and parts must also meet BSTI-approved standards. Each electric three-wheeler must have a water-tight hood to protect against harsh weather, with the option to raise or lower it as needed.
The Electric Three-Wheeler Management Policy has also been prioritized in the proposed national budget for FY 2025–26. In his budget speech, Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said, “The Electric Three-Wheeler Management Policy is being formulated to ensure discipline and safety in managing electric three-wheelers.”
As outlined in the draft policy prepared by the RTHD, drivers of electric three-wheelers must obtain a driving license from BRTA. The maximum speed for these vehicles on the road will be limited to 50 kilometers per hour.
When asked about the matter, Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser in charge of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, told Bonik Barta, “We’re planning to approve electric auto-rickshaws that are suitable for Dhaka, safe, and passenger-friendly. Discussions have already begun with manufacturers, BUET, and other relevant stakeholders. We’re working toward gradually phasing out battery-powered auto-rickshaws from Dhaka and introducing safer alternatives.”