Electric vehicles (EVs) are set to roll into Saint Kitts and Nevis more affordably, as the government slashes import duties by 35 per cent on models under four years old.

Energy Minister Konris Maynard announced the move Thursday during the launch of two flagship programmes: Solar Integration for Sustainable Energy (SOLARISE) and Decarbonised Roadway Initiative for Vehicle Electrification (DRIVE).

“This government is accelerating the transition to electric mobility,” Maynard declared.

“Effective 1 May 2026, import duty on fully electric vehicles less than four years old drops from 45 per cent to just 10 per cent. That’s not incremental – it’s transformational.”

The duty cut aims to ignite EV demand across the twin-island nation, making eco-friendly rides accessible for everyday citizens amid rising global calls for decarbonisation.

Maynard, an EV owner himself, highlighted the perks: “Lower fuel, operating, and maintenance costs make them a smart choice for our resilient energy system and modern transport.”

He painted a broader vision: “We’re building a resilient energy system, a modern transportation network, a diversified economy, and a country ready to compete in a rapidly changing world.”

This move puts the twin island nation ahead in the Caribbean for reducing taxes on EVs.