India's transition towards sustainable transportation has seen a meteoric rise in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
This paradigm shift has given rise to the EV revolution, with an increasing number of Indian consumers embracing the eco-friendly and cost-efficient benefits of EVs. However, as the EV market in India experiences a remarkable surge in options and innovation, selecting the perfect electric car can be a formidable task, even for the most discerning buyer.
In this blog, we will look at the electric cars available in India under ₹ 50 Lakhs and help you choose the finest electric car for your needs.

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Factors to consider while purchasing an EV

1. Range

   Evaluate your daily driving habits and determine the range required. Many modern EVs are well-suited for daily commuting, but if you frequently embark on longer journeys, an EV with an extended range is advisable.

2. Charging Speed

   Fast chargers significantly reduce the time required to recharge an EV's battery. If you plan on taking long road trips or need quick top-ups, a car with fast-charging capabilities is advantageous.

3. Cost

   Compare the upfront cost of the EV with similar internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Keep in mind that the total cost of ownership over the vehicle's lifetime may be lower due to lower operating costs.

4. Types of Charger

   Assess the compatibility of your chosen EV with various charging standards. For example, CCS2, CHAdeMO and GB/T type connevctors. . This can impact your options for charging your EV at public charging stations.

5. Battery Warranty

   Look into the warranty offered on the EV's battery by each vehicle manufacturer. A longer warranty can provide peace of mind regarding potential replacement costs.

6. Incentives and Rebates

   Various state governments offer incentives or rebates for purchasing EVs, such as tax credits, reduced registration fees, or rebates for home charger installations. Be sure to research the incentives available in your region.

7. Charging Infrastructure

   Evaluate the availability of public charging stations in your area. This includes both fast and slow chargers.
   Check if you have access to a charging point at your residence. If not, consider the feasibility and cost of installing one.

Electric Cars In India Under ₹ 50 Lakhs

1. Tata Nexon EV

   Cost: ₹ 14.74 Lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 30-40.5 kWh

   Range: 325-465 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   The Nexon EV is India's highest-selling Electric car, with new variants recently launched this year. It has two battery capacities: 30.2kWh in the Medium Range (MR) and 40.5kWh in the Long Range (LR). It is a compact SUV with a range that is suited for both everyday commute and long drives.

   

2. Tata Tiago EV

   Cost: ₹ 8.69 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 19.2-24 kWh

   Range: 250-315 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   Tiago EV is one of the most affordable Electric cars in India. It has two battery options – 19.2kWh and 24kWh. It is a hatchback with sufficient range for daily local commuting.

   

3. Tata Tigor EV

   Cost: ₹ 12.49 Lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 26 kWh

   Range: 315 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   The Tata Tigor EV is an all-electric variant of the Tata Tigor. It only has one battery option: 26kWh. It is a compact sedan with sufficient range for daily local commuting.

   

4. MG Comet EV

   Cost: ₹ 7.98 Lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 17.3 kWh

   Range: 230 km

   Charger Types: Type 2, AC001

   MG Comet EV is the most affordable Electric car in the Indian market. It only has one battery option: 17.3kWh. It is a hatchback with a sufficient range for daily local commuting.

   

5. Citroen eC3

   Cost: ₹ 11.5 Lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 29.2 kWh

   Range: 320 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   Citroen eC3 is one of the most affordable Electric cars if you look at the battery capacity and range it offers at a price range starting from ₹ 11.5 lakhs. It only has one battery option: 29.2kWh. It is a hatchback with a sufficient range for daily local commuting.

   

6. Mahindra XUV 400

   Cost: ₹ 15.99 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 34.5-39.4 kWh

   Range: 375-456 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   The XUV 400 is one of the most recent electric vehicles to hit the Indian market, having debuted in January 2023. It has two battery capacities: 34.5kWh and 39.4kWh. It is an SUV with a range that is appropriate for both daily local commuting and long drives.

   

7. MG ZS EV

   Cost: ₹ 23.38 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 50.3 kWh

   Range: 461 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   The MG ZS EV is one of the most selling EV cars in India. It has all of the latest features, which justify its price. It only has one battery option: 50.3kWh. It is an SUV with a range appropriate for lengthy, anxiety-free drives.

   

8. BYD E6

   Cost: ₹ 29.15 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 71.7 kWh

   Range: 415 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   BYD e6 is one of the EV cars in which you don’t have to worry about range because of its huge battery capacity. It only has one battery option: 71.7kWh. It is an MUV with sufficient range for long drives.

   

9. Hyundai Kona

   Cost: ₹ 23.84 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

   Battery Capacity: 39.2 kWh

   Range: 452 km

   Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

   Hyundai Kona is the first electric vehicle of Hyundai motors for India. It has only one variant which comes with all the latest features and a battery of 39.2kWh. It is an SUV with a range suitable for anxiety-free long drives.

   

10. BYD Atto3

    Cost: ₹ 33.99 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

    Battery Capacity: 60.48 kWh

    Range: 521 km

    Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

    BYD Atto 3 is one of the few EV cars with a range of more than 500 kms. It comes with one battery option – 60.48 kWh. It is an SUV with a range suitable for comfortable long drives.

    

11. Hyundai Ioniq 5

    Cost: ₹ 45.95 lakhs onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi)

    Battery Capacity: 72.6 kWh

    Range: 631 km

    Charger Types: CCS2, Type 2, AC001

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the few cars with a range of more than 500 kms. It only has one battery option – 72.6 kWh, it has highest the battery capacity and driving range among EVs under ₹ 50 lakhs. It is an SUV with a very high range of 621 kms, making it an excellent choice for long drives.

    

Conclusion

The Indian electric vehicle market has seen substantial growth, with a range of options to cater to different consumer needs. These electric cars in India represent the green revolution in the automotive industry. As technology continues to advance and environmental awareness grows, the electric car market in India is poised to expand even further, offering an array of choices and a cleaner, more sustainable future for transportation.

Electric Car vs Petrol Car

The transition from petrol cars to electric vehicles (EVs) is a pivotal step towards a more sustainable future. Apart from being eco-friendly, many consumers wonder about the economic feasibility of electric cars compared to their petrol counterparts. In this blog, we will delve into the comprehensive costs associated with both electric and petrol cars, shedding light on the long-term benefits of going electric.

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Assumptions for Comparison

• Tata Nexon Creative Petrol (2023) was chosen for comparison with Tata Nexon EV (2023) based on the features they both have.
• Car’s annual run is about 15000 kms
• This comparison is done for a period of 5 years
• Cost of petrol is ₹ 106/litre
• Cost of electricity for home charging is ₹ 7/unit

Initial Cost

Electric Car: Initially, electric cars tend to be more expensive due to the high cost of battery technology. However, government incentives and subsidies in many regions help offset this initial expense.

Petrol Car: Traditional petrol cars generally have a lower upfront cost. They have a well-established manufacturing infrastructure, which keeps production costs lower.

• Tata Nexon EV – ₹ 15,60,000 (on-road price, Mumbai)
• Tata Nexon Creative petrol – ₹ 13,10,000 (on-road price, Mumbai)

Maintenance Cost for 5 years

Electric Car: Electric cars are cheaper to maintain as they have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance costs. There are fewer oil changes, brake replacements and fewer components prone to wear and tear.

Petrol Car: Petrol cars have more complex systems, including engines, transmissions, and exhaust systems, which require more frequent maintenance. This can include oil changes, air filter replacements, and exhaust system repairs.

• Tata Nexon EV – ₹ 15000
• Tata Nexon Creative petrol – ₹ 40000

Cost of Running

Tata Nexon EV

Mileage – 8 km/unit

Cost of electricity per unit – ₹ 7

Running cost per km – ₹ 0.875

Running cost for 1 year – ₹ 13125

Running cost for 5 years – ₹ 65625

Tata Nexon Creative Petrol

Mileage – 16kmpl

Cost of fuel – ₹ 106

Running cost per km – ₹ 6.625

Running cost for 1 year – ₹ 99375

Running cost for 5 years – ₹ 496875

Total Ownership Cost

Here is the complete ownership cost comparison for Tata Nexon EV and Tata Nexon Creative petrol for a period of 5 years.

Conclusion

While the initial purchase price of an electric car may be higher, the total cost of ownership over the vehicle's lifespan often favours EVs. Lower fuel and maintenance costs, combined with government incentives, contribute to making electric cars an economically viable choice. If you own an electric car, within 5 years, you will save approximately ₹ 206250. As battery technology continues to advance and production scales up, the upfront cost of electric cars is expected to decrease, further levelling the playing field. Ultimately, choosing between an electric and a petrol car involves considering both the immediate costs and the long-term benefits of a greener, more sustainable mode of transportation.

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, the rise of alternative fuel vehicles has taken centre stage. As concerns about environmental sustainability and the depletion of traditional fuel sources intensify, consumers are turning their attention to hybrid cars, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) as viable alternatives to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of these four distinct categories, exploring their differences and helping you make an informed choice for your next ride.

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Hybrid Cars

Overview

Hybrid cars, often regarded as the pioneers in the green driving revolution, seamlessly blend conventional internal combustion engines with electric propulsion. They feature both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, working in tandem to optimise fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

How it Works

The key feature of hybrid cars is their ability to switch between the gasoline engine and electric power, or sometimes both simultaneously. When cruising at lower speeds or idling, the electric motor takes charge, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. During acceleration or higher speeds, the gasoline engine kicks in, providing the necessary power.

Pros

• Fuel Efficiency

Hybrids excel in city driving conditions, where frequent stops and starts allow the electric motor to shine.

• Reduced Emissions

By utilising electric power, hybrids contribute to lower emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.

• Regenerative Braking

Kinetic energy from braking is captured and used to recharge the electric battery, enhancing overall efficiency.

Cons

• Limited Electric Range

Hybrids have a limited electric-only range, making them less suitable for long-distance electric-only driving.

• Dependence on Gasoline

The reliance on a gasoline engine means it still contributes to traditional fuel consumption and emissions.

Examples

1. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
2. Toyota Camry
3. Honda City Hybrid

PHEVs

Overview

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) take the concept of hybrid cars to the next level by incorporating a larger battery that can be charged externally. This feature grants PHEVs the ability to cover a more significant distance solely on electric power, making them a bridge between traditional hybrids and fully electric vehicles.

How it Works

Similar to hybrids, PHEVs use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. However, the distinguishing factor is the larger battery pack that can be charged by plugging into an external power source. This allows PHEVs to operate in all-electric mode for a certain distance before the gasoline engine comes into play.

Pros

• Extended Electric Range

PHEVs offer a more substantial all-electric range, making them suitable for short commutes or local trips without using any gasoline.

• Reduced Fuel Consumption

For daily commutes within the electric range, PHEVs can function solely on electricity, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

• Versatility

PHEVs eliminate range anxiety, offering the flexibility to switch to gasoline power for longer journeys.

Cons

• Limited Electric Range for Some Models

Some PHEV models may still have a limited electric-only range, requiring careful consideration based on individual driving patterns.

• Complexity

The dual powertrain setup makes PHEVs more complex than traditional hybrids, potentially leading to higher maintenance costs.

Examples

1. Volvo XC90

BEVs

Overview

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) represent the pinnacle of eco-friendly transportation. Unlike hybrids and PHEVs, BEVs operate exclusively on electric power, completely eliminating the need for gasoline. They rely on large battery packs to store electricity and electric motors for propulsion.

How it Works

BEVs solely use electric power stored in high-capacity batteries. These batteries are charged by plugging into an electric power source, such as charging stations at home or public charging infrastructure. The electric motor then converts this stored energy into motion, powering the vehicle.

Pros

• Zero Emissions

BEVs produce no tailpipe emissions, contributing significantly to a cleaner environment and reduced air pollution.

• Lower Operating Costs

BEVs generally have fewer moving parts than traditional vehicles, resulting in lower maintenance costs over time.

• Silent Operation

The absence of a traditional combustion engine results in a quiet and smooth driving experience.

Cons

• Limited Charging Infrastructure

Depending on location, the availability of charging stations may be limited, affecting the convenience of long-distance travel.

• Range Anxiety

Despite improvements, the limited range of some BEVs may cause range anxiety, especially on longer journeys.

Examples

1. Tata Nexon EV
2. MG ZS EV
3. Mahindra XUV 400

FCEVs

Overview

Fuel cell electric vehicles are the outliers in the line-up, relying on a different green technology altogether. Instead of batteries, FCEVs use fuel cells to generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. This process produces electricity to power an electric motor, emitting only water vapour as a by-product.

How it Works

A Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) operates by utilizing a fuel cell stack, the core component of the vehicle. Hydrogen gas is supplied to the anode side of the fuel cell, where it undergoes an electrochemical reaction, splitting into protons and electrons. These protons move through a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM), while electrons create electric current, generating electricity. Simultaneously, on the cathode side, oxygen combines with protons and electrons to form water vapour as the sole emission. The electricity produced powers an electric motor, propelling the vehicle, and the entire process is remarkably clean, emitting only water vapour.

Pros

• Zero emission

FCEVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. The only by-product of the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the fuel cell is water vapour, contributing to cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint.

• Longer Range

FCEVs generally offer a longer driving range compared to battery electric vehicles. This is advantageous for drivers who require greater distances between refuelling.

• Quick Refuelling

Refuelling a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle is faster than charging an electric vehicle with a large battery. Filling up a hydrogen tank takes a few minutes, providing a similar refuelling experience to traditional gasoline vehicles.

Cons

• Limited Hydrogen infrastructure

One of the most significant challenges facing FCEVs is the limited availability of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. In many regions, the lack of a comprehensive network makes it inconvenient for users to find refuelling stations.

• Limited model availability

Compared to the broader selection of traditional and electric vehicles, the variety of FCEV models available on the market is currently limited. This lack of diversity may impact consumer choices and adoption rates.

• Challenges in hydrogen storage

Storing hydrogen safely and efficiently in vehicles poses technical challenges. The development of lightweight and cost-effective hydrogen storage solutions is crucial for improving the practicality and performance of FCEVs.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for You

When deciding between a hybrid, PHEV, BEV or FCEV it ultimately comes down to your lifestyle, driving habits, and environmental considerations. Here are some factors to consider:

• Daily Commute

If your daily commute is short, a PHEV or Battery EV may be ideal, as they offer the potential for all-electric driving.

• Charging Infrastructure

Consider the availability of charging stations in your area. BEVs require a robust charging infrastructure for convenient long-distance travel.

• Environmental Impact

If reducing your carbon footprint is a top priority, a Battery EV might be the most suitable option, followed by a PHEV, and then a traditional hybrid.

• Budget

While BEVs may have a higher upfront cost, factors such as government incentives, fuel savings, and lower maintenance costs can contribute to long-term savings.

• Driving Range

If you frequently embark on longer journeys, a hybrid or PHEV with a gasoline engine may provide the necessary flexibility.

Conclusion

As the automotive industry continues to innovate, the choice between hybrid cars, PHEVs, and BEVs becomes more nuanced. Each option has its own unique advantages and considerations, and the decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you opt for the seamless integration of a hybrid, the extended electric range of a PHEV, or the zero-emission promise of an EV, one thing is certain: the future of driving is undeniably green. Embrace the journey towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly road ahead.