What does the new presidential decree предусматривает?
New details have emerged about a state program that could significantly transform Uzbekistan’s automotive market. Under Presidential Decree No. UP-22 on priority areas and the state program for the current year, a large-scale transition toward environmentally friendly transport is being launched.
The document outlines comprehensive reforms aimed at maintaining ecological balance and ensuring more rational use of the country’s water resources.
How will citizens be encouraged to switch to electric vehicles?
One of the central objectives is the gradual reduction of outdated and environmentally harmful vehicles on the roads. To motivate citizens to purchase modern electric cars, the government is introducing financial incentives.
Banks will provide targeted loans for electric vehicle purchases at interest rates not exceeding 16% per annum. Any interest above this level will be compensated from the state budget. During the first stage of the program, approximately 15,000 subsidized loans are expected to be issued.
What infrastructure developments are planned?
A mass transition to electric transport requires expanded infrastructure. The decree sets a clear target: by the end of the year, the number of charging stations across Uzbekistan must reach 4,000 operational points.
To involve the private sector, entrepreneurs will be offered loans at 10% interest for installing charging stations. Land plots for such facilities will be available at reduced prices. Additionally, electricity costs exceeding 300 soums per kilowatt-hour will be subsidized by the state, creating strong incentives for business participation.
What measures target the taxi sector?
The passenger transport sector receives special attention. Electric taxi drivers will benefit from a 10% reduction in the social tax rate.
They will also be entitled to use paid parking areas near railway stations and airports free of charge for the first 30 minutes. Analysts estimate that these measures could increase the number of electric taxi drivers to 300,000 and reduce vehicle-related air pollution by at least 7%.
Is there a recognition system for responsible drivers?
A non-material incentive system will reward taxi drivers who travel one million kilometers in electric vehicles without accidents or traffic violations. Such drivers will receive the “Tabiat himoyachisi” badge, meaning “Defender of Nature.”
Law enforcement agencies will verify driving records and ensure compliance with traffic regulations before awarding the distinction.
How will old vehicles be phased out?
Alongside electric vehicle expansion, authorities plan to address the issue of outdated cars. Around 3,000 old vehicles are expected to be collected from citizens this year for recycling and component processing.
Mechanisms for purchasing vehicles under trade-in programs will be developed, and recycling enterprises will be strengthened. Citizens who surrender gasoline-powered cars may benefit from partial compensation of interest on newly issued car loans.
What is the historical background of electric vehicles?
The first electric vehicle in history — a small carriage powered by an electric motor — was created in the 1830s by Scottish inventor Robert Anderson, several decades before Karl Benz patented his first internal combustion engine automobile.