By RK Shih/Staff. Image via Taiwan Smart Mobility Association (台灣智慧移動產業協會).
TAIPEI — The Smart Mobility Association Taiwan (SMAT) reported Tuesday, April 7, that all six of Taiwan’s special municipalities have finalized their 2026 electric scooter subsidy programs. The Liberty Times reports that local governments have significantly increased funding compared to 2025, with some individual subsidy hikes exceeding NT$10,000 to accelerate the transition from fossil-fuel vehicles.
According to SMAT analysis, the 2026 policies introduce four primary strategic shifts: higher total subsidy amounts, diversified special categories, direct battery fee assistance, and the nation’s first sales incentives for traditional motorcycle shops.
Subsidy rankings by city:
When combined with central government funding, the maximum available subsidies per vehicle are as follows:
- Taipei City: NT$49,300 (Highest in Taiwan)
- Kaohsiung City: NT$45,500
- Taoyuan City: NT$45,300
Specialized demographic targeting:
- Kaohsiung: Offers heavy subsidies of up to NT$20,000 specifically targeting youth, medical professionals, and parents.
- Taipei: Introduced the “Kangaroo Project,” providing an additional NT$8,000 for families with children under 12.
- New Taipei: Launched “Double Scrap” and “Early Bird” incentives with bonuses up to NT$19,000.
- Taoyuan & Tainan: Expanded eligibility to include delivery riders, logistics personnel, and indigenous groups.
Operational cost reduction:
To lower long-term ownership barriers, cities are shifting focus from purchase prices to monthly operating costs. Taipei now offers a battery fee subsidy of NT$8,000, while Kaohsiung and Tainan provide monthly rental fee assistance ranging from NT$3,600 to NT$7,200, depending on the vehicle’s battery configuration.
Furthermore, Taoyuan City has pioneered a “Sales Incentive” of NT$500 per vehicle for motorcycle dealers. SMAT officials stated this move is designed to encourage traditional mechanics and showrooms to actively transition toward promoting electric models.
