Electric scooters are gaining immense popularity in India due to rising petrol prices, traffic congestion in cities, and increasing environmental consciousness. Market reports suggest that the electric two-wheeler market in India will grow at a CAGR of over 44% by 2025.
With various new players entering the segment and offering affordable electric scooters, many people are now seriously considering buying one instead of traditional petrol-run scooters. However, a common concern remains – how much does it really cost to own an electric scooter in India? Let’s analyse the electric scooter price in India:
What Is the charging and maintenance Cost of an Electric Scooter?
Purchase Cost
The upfront purchase cost of an electric scooter in India can range anywhere from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 1.5 lakhs based on the brand, model, battery capacity, range, and features.
The top electric scooter models in India, like Ather 450Apex, provide a range of up to 100 to 157kmph. With greater range and speed, the price also goes up. Entry-level electric scooters with 60-80 km range are available under Rs. 70,000.
Some state governments also provide subsidies on electric two-wheelers, bringing the effective price down by Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 15,000.
Charging Cost
Charging an electric scooter is way more cost-effective than filling petrol or diesel. Charging cost depends on electricity rates in your city and battery capacity.
On average, a full charge allows running for 60-100 km, which costs just Rs. 10 to 30. So per km, the cost works out to be Rs. 0.25 – 0.5 for electric scooters against Rs. 2-4 for petrol run. With lifetime savings on fuel up to Rs. 80,000, electric scooters seem an attractive deal.
Certain banks/NBFCs also have tied up with electric vehicle makers to provide easy loans on low interest rates and minimum documentation for buying electric two-wheelers.
Maintenance Costs
One of the biggest advantages of electric scooters is extremely low maintenance cost since there are almost negligible moving parts, unlike internal combustion engine vehicles. Other than battery replacement, annual routine maintenance costs are under Rs. 2,500, which mainly involves consumables like tyres and brakes.
In comparison, an equivalent 125cc petrol scooter would incur 5-10x times more expenses related to engine oil, filters, spark plugs, coolants, tune-ups, emission tests, etc., totalling between Rs. 4,000 – Rs. 10,000 every year.
Cost Comparison with Petrol Scooters
While electric scooters have a higher upfront purchase cost, they deliver massive savings in the long run. Important cost components are compared below:
- The fuel economy of electric scooters is around 2-3 times better than 110-125cc petrol scooters currently dominating Indian markets.
- Petrol and diesel prices are continuously rising, making electric scooters even more practical.
- Negligible maintenance costs for electric scooters against high and recurring expenses for petrol vehicles.
Considering these factors, the total cost of ownership over 5 years is significantly lower for most electric scooters despite a higher initial purchasing price. With improving range and public charging infrastructure, EVs are undoubtedly the future of urban mobility in India.
Conclusion
Electric scooters are eco-friendly and efficient and are becoming increasingly affordable to buy. Both central and state governments are realising their importance and framing policies to accelerate adoption. So if you are planning to buy a new scooter for city commuting or short rides, check out the best electric scooter in India as per your needs and budget without hesitation. The future is electric!