The True Cost of Owning an EV in India, Five Years In

Electric cars cost more to buy but much less to run. Whether that trade-off works for you depends on how far you drive and where you charge.

Running cost per kilometre

Figures are indicative; use your own tariff and fuel price.

Battery health

Owners we surveyed reported 6–9% capacity loss after five years and around 90,000 km. Most battery packs carry an 8-year warranty; check the kilometre cap and the state-of-health threshold that triggers a replacement.

Insurance and servicing

• Insurance premiums are typically 10–15% higher because the car's declared value is higher.

• Scheduled servicing costs are roughly half of an equivalent petrol car — no oil, filters or clutch.

• Tyres wear faster because of the extra weight and instant torque.

Is it worth it?

If you drive more than about 1,000 km a month and can charge at home, an EV usually pays back its price premium within four to five years.