Top 5 Low-Cost Electric Cars for Indian Market: Making EVs Accessible to All

New Delhi: The Indian market is witnessing a gradual uptake of electric vehicles, marking a significant shift in consumer preferences. Although the electric vehicle industry is still in its nascent stage, buyers now have a range of options available, catering to both the premium and mass-market segments. The surge in fuel prices and escalating environmental consciousness have contributed to the increasing sales of electric vehicles in India. Additionally, the affordability of ownership and the expanding network of charging infrastructure have played a crucial role in attracting prospective buyers towards considering electric vehicles as their preferred mode of transportation. To provide a comprehensive overview, we present below a selection of the most cost-effective electric vehicles currently available in the Indian market. Let’s delve into the details.

Tata Tiago EV

At the forefront of affordable electric vehicles in India is the Tiago EV, which stands as the most economical option in the country. With a price range starting from Rs 8.69 lakh to Rs 11.99 lakh, the Tiago EV provides a cost-effective entry point into electric mobility. It offers two battery pack choices: a 24kWh variant and a 19.2kWh variant. The former promises a claimed range of 315km, while the latter provides a range of 250km. The Tiago EV houses an electric motor capable of generating either 75PS/114Nm or 61PS/110Nm, depending on the chosen battery pack capacity.To facilitate convenient charging, Tata Motors offers the Tiago EV with two home wall box charger options: a 3.3kW charger and a 7.2kW charger. Notably, the vehicle boasts a noteworthy 10 to 80 percent recharge time of a claimed 57 minutes, allowing for swift recharging during pit stops. With these features and the competitive pricing, the Tiago EV ensures an attractive proposition for budget-conscious consumers seeking to embrace eco-friendly transportation alternatives.

Citroen EC3

With a price range spanning from Rs 11.50 lakh to Rs 12.43 lakh, the Citroen eC3 stands as an attractive offering in the electric vehicle market. Equipped with a 29.2 kWh lithium ferrous phosphate battery, this electric hatchback boasts an impressive ARAI range of approximately 320 km. The eC3 supports DC fast charging, allowing it to recharge from 10 to 80 percent in just 57 minutes. For AC charging, the vehicle can be charged at a rate of 3.3 kWh and can also be charged from a standard 15A home socket in approximately 10.5 hours.Under the hood, the Citroen eC3 is powered by a 57PS electric motor, delivering a torque of 143Nm. This combination enables the eC3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 kmph in a swift 6.8 seconds while reaching a top speed of 107 kmph. With its comprehensive range, efficient charging capabilities, and spirited performance, the Citroen eC3 presents a compelling option for discerning electric vehicle buyers.

Tata Tigor EV

The Tata Tigor EV is available at a price range starting from Rs 12.49 lakh and going up to Rs 13.75 lakh. With its 26 kWh LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) battery pack, the Tigor EV delivers power to a robust 75PS motor that generates 170 Nm of torque. Tata Motors has further optimized the drivetrain to enhance the vehicle’s range, increasing it from 306 km to an impressive 315 km. The battery pack boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring durability and protection against dust and water ingress.In terms of charging capabilities, the Tata Tigor EV utilizes the CCS2 plug for fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 0 to 80 percent in just one hour. Charging using a conventional 15A socket takes approximately 8.5 hours to reach the same level. With these charging options, the Tigor EV offers convenience and flexibility to cater to varying charging needs.The Tata Tigor EV stands as a reliable and eco-friendly option, providing an extended range and efficient charging capabilities. With its affordable price range and continuous improvements, the Tigor EV remains a compelling choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts in the market.

Tata Nexon EV

Introducing the Tata Nexon EV, the inaugural SUV on this compilation, with the Nexon EV Prime available at a starting price of Rs 14.49 lakh and reaching up to Rs 19.54 lakh. The Nexon EV Prime is equipped with a 30.2kWh Lithium-Ion Polymer battery pack, facilitating an impressive power output of 129PS and 245Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Nexon EV Max variant features a larger 40.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack, resulting in a higher power output of 143PS and 250Nm of torque.With its spacious and versatile design, the Tata Nexon EV combines the strengths of an SUV with the benefits of electric mobility. The advanced battery technology ensures efficient performance and provides an optimal driving range for a hassle-free experience. Whether opting for the Nexon EV Prime or the Nexon EV Max, buyers can choose according to their desired power requirements and driving preferences.

Mahindra XUV 400

The Mahindra XUV400 comes in a price range starting from Rs 15.99 lakh to Rs 19.19 lakh. The flagship model, the Mahindra XUV400 EL, is equipped with a 39.4 kWh battery pack, providing an ARAI-certified range of 456 km. Meanwhile, the base model, the XUV400 EC, features a slightly smaller 34.5 kWh battery pack, delivering a range of 375 km.Charging options for the Mahindra XUV400 include a 7.2 kW AC charger, which can fully charge the battery in approximately 6.5 hours. Charging the vehicle using a regular three-pin socket takes around 13 hours. Alternatively, utilizing a DC fast charger can recharge the XUV400 to 80 percent capacity in just 50 minutes.With its impressive range and versatile charging options, the Mahindra XUV400 offers a convenient and efficient electric driving experience. The different battery pack options cater to varied driving needs, while the fast-charging capability ensures minimal downtime during long journeys.