The government has launched a new initiative to convert old fuel-powered three-wheelers into electric vehicles, Science and Technology Minister Krishantha Abeysena announced.
He said the programme will also examine the feasibility of installing solar panels on the roofs of three-wheelers to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on fuel.
According to the Minister, converting petrol-powered three-wheelers to electric power marks a significant step forward and will bring substantial benefits. The operating cost of an electric three-wheeler is estimated at around Rs. 5 per kilometre, and a vehicle can travel approximately 100 kilometres on a single charge.
The conversion cost per vehicle is expected to be around Rs. 800,000.
Minister Abeysena noted that the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD) has already developed a new electric three-wheeler model. The government intends to further upgrade this model in collaboration with the private sector.
He added that research is currently underway to integrate solar panels into three-wheelers, enabling them to be partially powered by solar energy. If successful, this technology could become a valuable long-term investment for Sri Lanka, contributing to sustainable transport and lower energy costs.
