The demand for electric cars in India is growing rapidly. In 2022, sales of electric cars in India reached 300,000 units, up from just 10,000 units in 2017. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including the rising cost of fuel, the increasing awareness of the environmental impact of cars, and the government’s support for electric vehicles.
There are a number of benefits to owning an electric car in India. Electric cars are more fuel-efficient than petrol or diesel cars, which means that they can save you money on your fuel bills. They are also much better for the environment, as they produce zero emissions. In addition, the government offers a number of incentives for buying an electric car, such as tax breaks and subsidies.
If you are considering buying an electric car in India, there are a number of factors that you need to consider. The first is your budget. Electric cars can be more expensive than petrol or diesel cars, but the price is coming down as technology improves. The second factor is your driving habits. If you do a lot of long-distance driving, an electric car may not be the best option for you, as the range of electric cars is still limited. However, if you do most of your driving in the city, an electric car is a great option.
Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Car
- Range and Battery Performance: The range of an electric car is the distance it can travel on a single charge. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you do a lot of long-distance driving. Battery performance is also important, as it affects how quickly the car can charge and how long it will last.
- Charging Infrastructure Availability: The availability of charging infrastructure is another important factor to consider. If you live in an area where there are not many charging stations, you may have a hard time finding a place to charge your car.
- Maintenance Costs and Warranty Coverage: Maintenance costs for electric cars are generally lower than for traditional petrol or diesel cars. However, it is still important to factor in the cost of maintenance when making your decision. Warranty coverage is also an important factor, as it will protect you in case something goes wrong with your car.
Government Incentives and Subsidies: There are a number of government incentives and subsidies available for electric cars. These can help to offset the cost of buying an electric car.
LIST of Top 05 Electric Cars Under 10 lakhs in India
- Tata Nexon EV
- MG ZS EV
- Tata Tigor EV
- Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT
- Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV
1. Tata Nexon EV Electric Cars Details:-
The Tata Nexon EV is an electric SUV that was launched in India in 2020. It is one of the most popular electric cars in India, and it has been praised for its range, performance, and features.
Key Features and Specifications Tata Nexon EV
- Range: The Nexon EV has a claimed range of 312 kilometers on a single charge.
- Battery: The Nexon EV is powered by a 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery.
- Motor: The Nexon EV has an electric motor that produces 129 horsepower and 245 Nm of torque.
- Performance: The Nexon EV can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 9.9 seconds.
- Features: The Nexon EV comes with a number of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a sunroof, and climate control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Range: The Nexon EV has a good range for an electric car.
- Performance: The Nexon EV is a quick and responsive car.
- Features: The Nexon EV comes with a number of features that are not available on other electric cars in its price range.
- Affordability: The Nexon EV is one of the most affordable electric cars in India.
Cons:
- Charging time: The Nexon EV takes a long time to charge, especially on a slow charger.
- Limited charging infrastructure: There are not many charging stations available in India, which can be a problem if you live in a remote area.
- Price: The Nexon EV is still a relatively expensive car, especially when compared to petrol or diesel cars.
Tata Nexon EV User Reviews and Ratings
The Tata Nexon EV has received positive reviews from users. They have praised the car’s range, performance, and features. However, some users have complained about the car’s charging time and the lack of charging infrastructure.
Overall, the Tata Nexon EV is a good electric car that offers a good range, performance, and features. However, it is important to consider the car’s charging time and the lack of charging infrastructure before you buy it.
2. MG ZS EV Electric Cars Details
The MG ZS EV is an electric SUV that is available in India. It is powered by a 44.5 kWh battery that can provide a range of up to 419 km on a single charge. The car is available in two variants: Excite and Exclusive.
Key Features and Specifications MG ZS EV
- Powertrain: 44.5 kWh battery, electric motor
- Power: 177 PS
- Torque: 280 Nm
- Range: 419 km
- Top speed: 140 kmph
- 0-100 kmph: 8.5 seconds
- Charging time: 8 hours (AC), 50 minutes (DC)
Pros and Cons of MG ZS EV
Pros:
- Long range
- Good performance
- Spacious interior
- Advanced features
- Competitive price
Cons:
- Slow charging time
- Limited charging infrastructure
- No sunroof option
User Reviews and Ratings of MG ZS EV
The MG ZS EV has received positive reviews from users. They have praised the car’s range, performance, and features. However, some users have complained about the slow charging time and the lack of charging infrastructure.
Overall, the MG ZS EV is a good electric SUV that offers a good range, performance, and features. However, the slow charging time and the lack of charging infrastructure are some of its drawbacks.
3. Tata Tigor EV Cars Details
The Tata Tigor EV is an electric car that was launched in India in 2021. It is based on the petrol-powered Tigor sedan, but it has a 26.2 kWh battery pack and an electric motor that produces 75 PS and 170 Nm of torque. The Tigor EV has a claimed range of 306 km on a single charge.
Key Features and Specifications of Tata Tigor EV
- 26.2 kWh battery pack
- Electric motor producing 75 PS and 170 Nm of torque
- Claimed range of 306 km on a single charge
- ARAI-certified
- 0-60 km/h in 5.7 seconds
- Top speed of 120 km/h
- Automatic transmission
- Features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a reverse camera, and a cruise control
Pros and Cons Tata Tigor EV
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good range
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Low maintenance costs
- Government incentives available
Cons:
- Slow charging speed
- Limited charging infrastructure
- Small boot space
User Reviews and Ratings Tata Tigor EV
The Tata Tigor EV has received positive reviews from users. They have praised the car’s range, performance, and smooth ride. However, some users have complained about the slow charging speed and the limited charging infrastructure.
Overall, the Tata Tigor EV is a good option for those looking for an affordable electric car with a good range. However, it is important to consider the slow charging speed and the limited charging infrastructure before making a purchase.
4. Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT Cars Details
The Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT is an electric car that is designed for city driving. It has a range of 150 km on a single charge and can be charged from 0 to 80% in 55 minutes. The car is powered by a 15.9 kWh battery and a 54.4 hp electric motor.
Key Features and Specifications of Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT
- Range: 150 km
- Battery: 15.9 kWh
- Electric motor: 54.4 hp
- Top speed: 85 km/h
- Charging time: 0-80% in 55 minutes
- Features: LED headlights, touchscreen infotainment system, reverse parking camera, hill hold assist, cruise control
Pros and Cons Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT
Pros:
- Affordable
- A good range for city driving
- Quick charging
- Low maintenance costs
Cons:
- The limited range for long-distance driving
- Slow acceleration
- Small boot space
User Reviews and Ratings Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT
The Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT has received mixed reviews from users. Some users have praised the car for its affordability, range, and quick charging. However, other users have criticized the car for its slow acceleration and small boot space.
Overall, the Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable electric car for city driving. However, it is not the best option for those who need a car with a long-range or a large boot space.
5. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV Car Details
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV is an electric hatchback car that is designed for the Indian market. It is powered by a 14 kWh battery that gives a range of up to 130 km on a single charge. The car comes with a host of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and power windows.
Key Features and Specifications Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV
- Engine: 14 kWh electric motor
- Range: Up to 130 km on a single charge
- Top speed: 83 km/h
- 0-60 km/h: 16 seconds
- Battery: 14 kWh
- Charging time: 6-8 hours
- Features: Touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, power windows, keyless entry, rear parking sensors
Pros and Cons of Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV
Pros:
- Affordable price
- A good range for the price
- Practical hatchback design
- Features like a touchscreen infotainment system and automatic climate control
Cons:
- Slow acceleration
- Limited charging infrastructure
- Small boot space
User Reviews and Ratings of Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV has received mixed reviews from users. Some users have praised the car’s affordable price and good range, while others have criticized its slow acceleration and limited charging infrastructure. Overall, the car seems to be a good option for those looking for an affordable electric hatchback car with a practical design.
Overall, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV is a good option for those looking for an affordable electric hatchback car with a practical design. However, it is important to consider the car’s limited charging infrastructure and slow acceleration before making a purchase.
Comparison of the top 5 electric cars under 10 lakhs in India
comparison of the top 5 electric cars under 10 lakhs in India, with respect to battery range and efficiency, charging time and options, safety features and ratings, and comfort and space:
| Feature | Tata Nexon EV | MG ZS EV | Tata Tigor EV | Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT | Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV |
| Battery Range | 312 km | 419 km | 306 km | 150 km | 130 km |
| Battery Efficiency | 13.45 kWh/100 km | 9.4 kWh/100 km | 11.6 kWh/100 km | 10.1 kWh/100 km | 10.7 kWh/100 km |
| Charging Time | 8-10 hours (AC) | 5-6 hours (AC) | 8-9 hours (AC) | 11-12 hours (AC) | 12-13 hours (AC) |
| Charging Options | AC fast charger, DC fast charger | AC fast charger, DC fast charger | AC fast charger | AC fast charger | AC fast charger |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounts | Six airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, hill hold assist | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD |
| Safety Ratings | 4 stars (Global NCAP) | 5 stars (Global NCAP) | 4 stars (Global NCAP) | 3 stars (Global NCAP) | 3 stars (Global NCAP) |
| Comfort and Space | Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, good boot space | Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, good boot space | Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, good boot space | Compact cabin, comfortable seats, good boot space | Compact cabin, comfortable seats, good boot space |
As you can see, the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV offer the best battery range and efficiency. However, they are also the more expensive cars. The Tata Tigor EV and Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT are more affordable, but they have a shorter range. The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV is the most affordable car on this list, but it also has the shortest range.
In terms of charging time, the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV can be fully charged in 8-10 hours (AC) or 5-6 hours (DC fast charger). The Tata Tigor EV and Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT take 8-9 hours (AC) to charge fully, while the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV takes 12-13 hours (AC).
All of the cars on this list have a good range of safety features, including dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. The Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV also have six airbags and electronic stability control.
In terms of comfort and space, all of the cars on this list have spacious cabins and comfortable seats. The Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV have a good boot space, while the Tata Tigor EV and Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT have a compact boot space. The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV has the smallest boot space on this list.
Ultimately, the best electric car for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a car with the best range and efficiency, then the Tata Nexon EV or MG ZS EV are good options. If you are looking for a more affordable car, then the Tata Tigor EV or Mahindra e-KUV100 NXT are good options. And if you are looking for the most affordable car on this list, then the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV is a good option.
The Future of Affordable Electric Cars:-
The future of affordable electric cars is looking bright. Advancements in EV technology are making it possible to produce electric cars that are more affordable and have a longer range. In addition, government incentives and subsidies are making electric cars more accessible to consumers.
Advancements in EV Technology
There are a number of advancements in EV technology that are making it possible to produce more affordable electric cars. These include:
- Improved battery technology: Battery prices have been declining in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue. This is making it possible to produce electric cars with a longer range at a lower price.
- More efficient motors: Electric motors are becoming more efficient, which is also helping to improve the range of electric cars.
- Lightweight materials: The use of lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber, is also helping to reduce the weight of electric cars, which in turn improves their range.
Expected Price Reductions and Features
As EV technology continues to improve, we can expect to see the price of electric cars come down. This is because the cost of producing electric cars is directly related to the cost of the battery. As battery prices continue to decline, the cost of electric cars will also decline.
In addition to price reductions, we can also expect to see new features in affordable electric cars. These features may include:
- Faster charging: As EV technology continues to improve, we can expect to see faster charging times for electric cars. This will make it easier for people to charge their electric cars on the go.
- More range: As battery technology continues to improve, we can expect to see electric cars with a longer range. This will make electric cars more practical for long-distance driving.
- More advanced safety features: Electric cars are already equipped with a number of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. We can expect to see even more advanced safety features in affordable electric cars in the future.
Overall, the future of affordable electric cars is looking bright. As EV technology continues to improve, we can expect to see the price of electric cars come down and the features of electric cars improve. This will make electric cars more affordable and practical for a wider range of consumers.
Conclusion
The future of affordable electric cars is looking bright. Advancements in EV technology are making it possible to produce electric cars that are more affordable and have a longer range. In addition, government incentives and subsidies are making electric cars more accessible to consumers.