The Government has initiated a programme to convert old fuel-powered three-wheelers into electric vehicles, according to the Science and Technology Minister Chrishantha Abeysena.

Commenting on the initiative, he added: “Converting old petrol-powered three-wheelers to electric brings significant benefits. These vehicles can continue to be used, and there is no cost for petrol. The operating cost is about Rs. 5 per kilometre, and an electric three-wheeler can travel around 100 kilometres on a single charge. The conversion cost is estimated at around Rs. 800,000.”

The Minister further stated the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD) has already developed a new electric three-wheeler model. Noting the Government hopes to enhance vehicles further in collaboration with the private sector, he revealed that plans are underway to install solar panels on three-wheeler roofs to allow the vehicles to be powered, at least partially, by solar energy. According to the Minister, research on this technology is ongoing, and its success would represent a valuable long-term investment for the country.