The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is growing rapidly, driven by the need for sustainable transportation solutions, rising fuel prices, and government incentives. Several budget-friendly electric cars are now available, making it easier for the average consumer to switch to an eco-friendly mode of transportation. This article provides a detailed overview of the most affordable electric cars available in India, covering their features, specifications, pricing, and benefits.

1. Tata Nexon EV

Overview

The Tata Nexon EV is one of the most popular budget-friendly electric cars in India. Launched by Tata Motors, this compact SUV offers a perfect blend of performance, features, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those looking to switch to electric mobility.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The Tata Nexon EV is powered by a 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a range of approximately 312 kilometers on a single charge (ARAI certified).

Performance: The electric motor produces 127 bhp and 245 Nm of torque, enabling the Nexon EV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.9 seconds.

Charging: The vehicle supports fast charging, allowing it to charge from 0 to 80% in about 60 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger takes about 8 hours to fully charge the battery.

Interior and Features: The Nexon EV comes with a spacious and comfortable interior, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, and a sunroof.

Safety: Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Pricing

The Tata Nexon EV is available in three variants: XM, XZ+, and XZ+ Lux. The starting price is around INR 14 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an affordable option in the electric SUV segment.

Benefits

• Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing for an electric SUV.
• Government Incentives: Eligible for various government subsidies and tax benefits.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and lower running costs compared to traditional ICE vehicles.

 

2. MG ZS EV

Overview

The MG ZS EV, launched by MG Motor India, is another popular choice among budget-friendly electric cars. This compact SUV offers a premium feel and advanced features at a reasonable price, making it a strong contender in the electric vehicle market.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The MG ZS EV is equipped with a 44.5 kWh battery pack, offering a range of around 419 kilometers on a single charge (ARAI certified).

Performance: The electric motor delivers 142 bhp and 353 Nm of torque, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience.

Charging: The ZS EV supports fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 0 to 80% in about 50 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard AC charger takes approximately 6-8 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The car features a spacious and well-appointed interior with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and leather seats. Other features include connected car technology, cruise control, and a 360-degree camera.

Safety: The MG ZS EV is equipped with multiple safety features, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist.

Pricing

The MG ZS EV is available in two variants: Excite and Exclusive. The starting price is around INR 21 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a slightly higher-priced option but still budget-friendly considering the features it offers.

Benefits

• Long Range: One of the longest ranges in its segment.
• Premium Features: Offers a range of advanced features and a premium feel.
• Safety: Comprehensive safety features ensure a secure driving experience.

3. Tata Tigor EV

Overview

The Tata Tigor EV is a compact sedan that provides an affordable entry point into the world of electric vehicles. Designed for urban commuting, the Tigor EV offers practicality and efficiency without compromising on features.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The Tigor EV is powered by a 26 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a range of approximately 306 kilometers on a single charge (ARAI certified).

Performance: The electric motor generates 74 bhp and 170 Nm of torque, ensuring adequate performance for city driving.

Charging: The Tigor EV supports fast charging, with the battery charging from 0 to 80% in about 65 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger takes around 8-9 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The Tigor EV features a modern and comfortable interior with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and a digital instrument cluster.

Safety: Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and rear parking sensors.

Pricing

The Tata Tigor EV is available in three variants: XE, XM, and XZ+. The starting price is around INR 12 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most affordable electric sedans in India.

Benefits

• Affordable: One of the lowest-priced electric cars in the market.
• Compact Design: Ideal for urban commuting with a compact footprint.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and low running costs.

4. Mahindra eVerito

Overview

The Mahindra eVerito is an electric sedan from Mahindra Electric, designed to offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly transportation solution. With its spacious interior and practical features, the eVerito is well-suited for both personal and commercial use.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The eVerito is equipped with a 21.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a range of about 140 kilometers on a single charge.

Performance: The electric motor produces 41 bhp and 91 Nm of torque, delivering a modest performance suitable for city driving.

Charging: The eVerito supports fast charging, with the battery charging from 0 to 80% in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger takes around 8-9 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The car features a basic yet functional interior with a 2-DIN audio system, air conditioning, and power windows.

Safety: Safety features include driver airbag, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors.
Pricing

The Mahindra eVerito is available in three variants: D2, D4, and D6. The starting price is around INR 10 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most budget-friendly electric sedans available.

Benefits

• Low Cost: Very affordable entry point for electric vehicles.
• Practical Design: Spacious interior and practical features.
• Commercial Use: Suitable for fleet operators and commercial applications.

5. Hyundai Kona Electric

Overview

The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact SUV that combines style, performance, and eco-friendliness. It offers a premium driving experience with advanced features, making it a strong contender in the budget-friendly electric car segment.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The Kona Electric is powered by a 39.2 kWh battery pack, offering a range of approximately 452 kilometers on a single charge (ARAI certified).

Performance: The electric motor generates 134 bhp and 395 Nm of torque, ensuring a spirited and responsive driving experience.

Charging: The vehicle supports fast charging, with the battery charging from 0 to 80% in about 57 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger takes around 6-7 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The Kona Electric features a premium interior with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, and a heads-up display. Other features include ventilated seats, a sunroof, and connected car technology.

Safety: Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera.

Pricing

The Hyundai Kona Electric is available in two variants: Premium and Premium Dual Tone. The starting price is around INR 23 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a higher-priced option in the budget-friendly category but justifiable given its features and performance.

Benefits

• Long Range: Offers one of the longest ranges in the segment.
• Premium Features: Advanced features and a premium feel.
• Performance: Excellent performance and driving dynamics.

 

6. Mahindra eKUV100

Overview

The Mahindra eKUV100 is a compact electric SUV designed for urban commuting. It offers a practical and affordable solution for those looking to switch to electric mobility without breaking the bank.

Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The eKUV100 is equipped with a 15.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a range of about 147 kilometers on a single charge.

Performance: The electric motor produces 54 bhp and 120 Nm of torque, delivering adequate performance for city driving.

Charging: The eKUV100 supports fast charging, with the battery charging from 0 to 80% in about 55 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger takes around 6 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The car features a basic interior with a touchscreen infotainment system, air conditioning, and power windows.

Safety: Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors.
Pricing

The Mahindra eKUV100 is available in a single variant. The starting price is around INR 8.25 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most affordable electric SUV in India.

Benefits

• Most Affordable: Lowest-priced electric SUV in the market.
• Compact Design: Ideal for urban commuting.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and low running costs.

7. Renault Kwid EV (Upcoming)

Overview

Renault is set to launch the Kwid EV in the Indian market, further expanding the budget-friendly electric car options. Based on the popular Kwid hatchback, the Kwid EV promises to offer an affordable and practical electric mobility solution.

Expected Features and Specifications

Battery and Range: The Kwid EV is expected to feature a 26.8 kWh battery pack, offering a range of around 250 kilometers on a single charge.

Performance: The electric motor is likely to produce around 45 bhp and 125 Nm of torque, ensuring decent performance for city driving.

Charging: The Kwid EV is expected to support fast charging, with the battery charging from 0 to 80% in about 60 minutes using a DC fast charger. A standard home charger may take around 7-8 hours for a full charge.

Interior and Features: The car is expected to feature a modern interior with a touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and air conditioning.

Safety: Expected safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors.
Expected Pricing

The Renault Kwid EV is anticipated to be priced around INR 10 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a competitive option in the budget-friendly electric car segment.

Benefits

• Affordable: Expected to be competitively priced.
• Practical Design: Based on the popular Kwid hatchback, offering practicality and ease of use.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and low running costs.

Government Incentives and Benefits

The Indian government has implemented several incentives and benefits to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. These include:

FAME II Scheme: The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme offers subsidies for electric vehicle purchases, making them more affordable.

Income Tax Benefits: Under Section 80EEB of the Income Tax Act, buyers of electric vehicles can avail of tax deductions on the interest paid on loans taken for purchasing EVs.

State Incentives: Various state governments offer additional incentives, such as subsidies, reduced road tax, and registration fee waivers, to encourage electric vehicle adoption.

The availability of budget-friendly electric cars in India is rapidly expanding, providing consumers with more choices to suit their needs and budgets.

The Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, Tata Tigor EV, Mahindra eVerito, Hyundai Kona Electric, Mahindra eKUV100, and the upcoming Renault Kwid EV represent a diverse range of options, each offering unique features and benefits.

Switching to an electric vehicle not only helps reduce your carbon footprint but also offers significant savings in running and maintenance costs.

With government incentives and a growing charging infrastructure, now is an excellent time to consider making the shift to electric mobility in India.

 

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