From Tata to MG, discover the Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars in India that offer great range, low running cost, and modern features.
Indian automobile customers are increasingly focusing on electric cars (EVs) due to the unpredictability of fuel and diesel pricing. What was formerly thought to be costly and impractical has now evolved into a practical and affordable option for daily driving. There are currently a number of affordable EVs on the market as a result of improved batteries, government subsidies, and increased competition.
In this detailed article, we explore the Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars in India, focusing on price, range, usability, and value for money. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or planning to switch from petrol to electric, this article will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Why Affordable Electric Cars Are Gaining Popularity in India
Electric vehicles are no longer only available to high-end consumers. India has seen a significant push in recent years towards reasonably priced EVs for a number of reasons:
- Rising fuel costs and lower running expenses of EVs
- Government subsidies under FAME and state EV policies
- Expanding charging infrastructure in cities and highways
- Improved battery technology and longer driving range
- Lower maintenance compared to petrol and diesel cars
As a result, the Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars today offer decent range, modern features, and strong safety, making them suitable for daily city use and occasional highway trips.
What Makes an Electric Car “Affordable”?
Before jumping into the list, it’s important to understand what affordability means in the EV context:
- Ex-showroom price under ₹15 lakh
- Low running cost per km
- Reasonable real-world range (200–350 km)
- Availability of home charging
- Strong after-sales support
Keeping these points in mind, let’s look at the most budget-friendly EVs currently available in India.
Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars in India (2025)
Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | Electric Car | Price (₹) | Range (km) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tata Tiago EV | 8–12 L | 250 | Best budget EV |
| 2 | MG Comet EV | 7–10 L | 200 | City driving |
| 3 | Tata Tigor EV | 11–15 L | 270 | Boot space & comfort |
| 4 | Mahindra eKUV100 | 8–10 L | 150 | Short commutes |
| 5 | Citroën eC3 | 12–15 L | 265 | Family use |
| 6 | Tata Punch EV | 9–15 L | 315 | Safety & power |
| 7 | Hyundai Exter EV* | 8–10 L | 300 | Tech-focused buyers |
| 8 | BYD Dolphin* | 10–12 L | 405 | Long range |
| 9 | Kia Sonet EV* | 14–16 L | 380 | Premium features |
| 10 | Hyundai Creta EV* | 15–18 L | 420 | Comfort & space |
(*Expected / upcoming models)
1. Tata Tiago EV – The Best Budget Electric Car in India
Many people consider the Tata Tiago EV to be among the most practical and reasonably priced EVs available in the country. It is perfect for urban commuters and first-time buyers.
Why it stands out:
- Competitive pricing
- Trusted Tata build quality
- Multiple battery options
- Comfortable ride for city roads
Best for: Daily commuting and small families
2. MG Comet EV – Perfect City Companion
The MG Comet EV is India’s most compact electric car. Its futuristic design and tiny footprint make it ideal for crowded urban environments.
Key highlights:
- Ultra-compact size
- Easy parking and maneuverability
- Modern interiors with dual screens
Limitations: Not suitable for highway runs
Best for: Single users or couples in metro cities
3. Tata Tigor EV – Practical Sedan Choice
For buyers who prefer sedans over hatchbacks, the Tata Tigor EV is a good option. It offers better boot space and a smoother ride.
Pros:
- Spacious cabin
- Stable ride quality
- Good safety rating
Cons: Conservative design
Best for: Fleet buyers and family users
4. Mahindra eKUV100 – Urban Electric Commuter
The eKUV100 is Mahindra’s compact EV designed for short urban trips. While the range is limited, it’s still a decent option for city-only driving.
Best features:
- Tall seating position
- Affordable pricing
- Easy driving experience
Ideal use: Office commute within city limits
5. Citroën eC3 – Comfort Meets Affordability
The eC3 from Citroën prioritizes efficiency and riding comfort over flashy features. It provides a useful range and adequate space.
Strengths:
- Comfortable suspension
- Spacious interior
- Decent real-world range
Weakness: Fewer features compared to rivals
Best for: Families looking for a simple EV
6. Tata Punch EV – Small SUV with Big Appeal
The Tata Punch EV blends electric economy with SUV design. Among the less expensive EVs, it is among the safest.
Why buyers like it:
- High ground clearance
- Strong build quality
- Good performance
Best for: Buyers wanting a compact electric SUV feel
Running Cost Comparison: EV vs Petrol
One of the biggest reasons why buyers choose EVs, is cost savings.
- Electric car running cost: ₹1–1.5 per km
- Petrol car running cost: ₹6–8 per km
An EV can save ₹3–5 lakh in fuel and maintenance over a 5-year period, making even somewhat higher upfront expenses acceptable.
Government Subsidies and Benefits
Affordable EV buyers in India can benefit from:
- Central government incentives
- State-level subsidies
- Lower road tax and registration fees
- Reduced maintenance costs
Always check local EV policies to maximize your savings
How to Choose the Right Affordable Electric Car
Before buying, consider:
- Your daily driving distance
- Charging access at home or nearby
- City vs highway usage
- Brand service network
- Battery warranty (typically 8 years)
Choosing wisely ensures long-term satisfaction.
Future of Affordable Electric Cars in India
The next few years will bring:
- More sub-₹10 lakh EVs
- Improved charging infrastructure
- Better battery technology
- Wider adoption in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
This means the Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars list will only get more competitive.
Final Thoughts
In India, electric vehicles are no longer costly or unfeasible. Customers now have the flexibility to select what best fits them because to the variety of solutions available across pricing points, body types, and use cases..
The Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars in India listed above prove that clean mobility is accessible, economical, and future-ready. If you’re planning to buy a new car in 2025-2026, an affordable EV might just be the smartest choice you can make.
FAQs
Which electric vehicle is the cheapest in India?
Currently, the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV are among the most affordable electric cars in India, with prices starting under ₹10 lakh. They offer practical range, low running costs, and are ideal for city driving.
What is the running cost of an electric car in India?
The running cost of an electric car in India is approximately ₹1 to ₹1.5 per km, depending on electricity tariffs. This is significantly lower than petrol cars, which typically cost ₹6–8 per km to run.
Are affordable electric cars suitable for long-distance travel?
Most affordable electric cars are designed primarily for city and short highway travel. However, models offering 300 km or more range can comfortably handle occasional long-distance trips with proper charging planning.
How long does it take to charge an affordable electric car?
Using a standard home AC charger, most affordable electric cars take 6–8 hours for a full charge. With a DC fast charger, 10–80% charging can be achieved in around 45–60 minutes, depending on the model.
Do electric cars get government subsidies in India?
Yes, electric cars in India may qualify for central and state-level subsidies, reduced road tax, and registration benefits. The availability and amount depend on the state and prevailing EV policies.
Is maintenance cheaper for electric cars compared to petrol cars?
Yes, electric cars generally have lower maintenance costs because they have fewer moving parts, no engine oil, and less wear on components compared to petrol or diesel vehicles.
