The Road Transport and Highways Division has drafted the “Electric Three-Wheeler Management Policy, 2025” to regulate the chaotic operation of battery-powered auto-rickshaws across Bangladesh. Under the new policy, all such vehicles must obtain mandatory registration from BRTA, with drivers required to possess valid driving licenses, fitness certificates, and tax tokens.
The policy introduces speed restrictions, capping medium-speed auto-rickshaws at 50 km/h and slow-speed variants at 30 km/h. In a significant move, these vehicles will be completely banned from national highways, restricted to operating only on approved routes within designated areas including city corporations, “A” category municipalities, and specific district and upazila routes.
Existing unauthorised and unsafe auto-rickshaws face a one-year deadline to convert to approved models or face legal consequences. The policy also imposes ownership limits, allowing individuals to own a maximum of three medium-speed or five slow-speed vehicles, while companies can register up to 25 units.
Manufacturers and sellers must obtain BRTA approval for production and marketing of vehicles or parts.
Local passenger and goods transport committees will determine the number of auto-rickshaws permitted in each area, with BRTA setting fixed fares. The policy specifies dimensional limits, including a maximum weight of 500kg (including the battery) for slow-speed vehicles.
While prohibited from national highways, operation in service lanes will be permitted.