Guide on EV: Things to Consider Before Buying an Electric Car

Between 2020 and 2024, India witnessed a significant rise in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, with over 200,000 units sold. This upward trend highlights the growing acceptance and popularity of electric cars in the country.

Electric cars are emerging as a pivotal innovation in the future of transportation, offering numerous environmental and economic benefits. As India pushes towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, understanding the various facets of electric car ownership becomes crucial. However, just like any other vehicle, you must do your research and understand if buying an electric car is the right choice for you. But how can you find that out? As a person ready to invest a lot in a car, you must ask numerous questions and do comprehensive research before buying an EV.

This article answers all the questions you may have. So, read on before buying an electric car.

What Are the Costs Associated with Electric Cars?

Cost is the one major factor anyone would ponder before buying an EV car. Electric cars are currently known to be more expensive when compared to their petrol or diesel-powered counterparts. The main reason behind this is the use of advanced technology and battery packs. You must assess your budget to determine if an electric vehicle (EV) is financially feasible for you.

Below, we are providing a complete breakdown of costs associated with EVs.

Purchase Costs for Electric Cars

The cost of purchasing an electric car varies widely based on the make, model, features, and country of purchase. Here is a breakdown:

• Minimum Cost: Entry-level electric cars such as the Tata Nexon EV or the Mahindra e-Verito typically start around ₹15 lakh to ₹20 lakh. These models offer basic features suitable for city driving.
• Maximum Cost: High-end models, including luxury brands like the Audi e-Tron, Jaguar I-PACE, and Mercedes-Benz EQC, can cost upwards of ₹1 crore to ₹1.5 crore. These cars come with advanced features, longer ranges, and superior performance.
• Average Cost: The average cost for a mid-range electric car, such as the MG ZS EV or the Hyundai Kona Electric, falls between ₹25 lakh and ₹40 lakh.

Are There Any Incentives or Rebates For Buying Electric Cars?

Governments across the globe, including India, offer various incentives to promote electric vehicle adoption:

• Central Government Incentives: Under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) program, people can get incentives up to ₹1.5 lakh.
• State and Local Incentives: Various states offer additional rebates and tax exemptions. For instance, Delhi provides subsidies up to ₹1.5 lakh, and road tax and registration fee exemptions.
• Other Benefits: Look for additional perks such as lower interest rates on loans. You can also talk to the agent about discounts on insurance premiums may also be available.

What Are The Operating Costs Associated With Electric Cars?

Electric cars generally have lower operating costs when compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles:

• Charging Costs: The cost of charging an EV depends on electricity rates. On average, charging at home can cost about ₹8 per kWh in India. A full charge for a vehicle with a 40 kWh battery can cost around ₹320, offering approximately 250 km of range.
• Maintenance Costs: EVs require less maintenance since they have fewer moving parts. There are no oil changes, and brakes tend to last longer. Annual maintenance costs are estimated to be 30-50% lower than for gasoline vehicles.
• Insurance Costs: Insurance for electric cars can be slightly higher due to the higher repair costs and specialized parts. However, many insurers offer discounts for eco-friendly vehicles.
• Additional Expenses: Owning an EV involves additional costs. These include installing home chargers and paying for public charging. 

Should You Check The Car Specifications When Buying an Electric Car?

Electrical automobiles possess their own set of specifications, similar to those of conventional combustion vehicles. The number of features offered by each company varies. It is necessary to evaluate your needs and primary requirements and subsequently correlate them with the specifications of a variety of electric vehicles.

In doing so, you will ultimately be able to identify the ideal electric vehicle based on your needs. However, what kinds of specifications should one consider? Before buying an electric vehicle in India, it is essential to evaluate the following:

1) Battery Life and Warranty

The battery is the heart of an electric vehicle. It’s essential to check the battery life and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Modern EV batteries are designed to last anywhere between 8 to 15 years. However, it depends on usage and environmental conditions. Most manufacturers offer warranties of 8 years or 100,000 miles. A longer warranty period can significantly reduce maintenance costs. The Hyundai Kona Electric offers an 8-year/160,000 km warranty on its battery, ensuring peace of mind for owners.

2) Driving Range

The driving range indicates how far an EV can travel on a single charge. Real-world reviews are crucial to understanding the actual driving range, which can vary based on driving conditions. Entry-level models range from 100 to 300 kilometers per charge, while high-end models can exceed 400 km. Models like the MG ZS EV boast an impressive range of up to 419 kilometers on a single charge, which is ideal for urban and suburban use.

3) Power and Performance

Electric cars offer instant torque, providing quick acceleration and a smooth driving experience. Evaluate the power (measured in horsepower) and torque to ensure the vehicle meets your performance expectations.

Budget-friendly electric cars such as Tata Tigor EV have a 74bhp and 170Nm. On the other hand, high-end models such as the Mercedes EQS are known to have 516bhp and 855Nm of torque. 

4) Charging Options and Compatibility

Carefully evaluate the charging options available for the electric car, including compatibility with different charging standards like CCS, CHAdeMO, or Tesla Superchargers. This ensures flexibility and convenience, especially for long-distance travel.

The Jaguar I-PACE supports both AC and DC charging, including fast charging up to 100 kW, ensuring convenient charging solutions for different scenarios.

5) Interior Space and Comfort

Assess the interior space, seating capacity, and comfort features. Look for features such as climate control, infotainment systems, and connectivity options. Consider your lifestyle and choose a car that offers a more comfortable driving experience. 

The Tata Nexon EV is a prime example of a vehicle with a luxurious interior and enhanced comfort. It offers ample cabin space and features like a premium Harman sound system, improving comfort and entertainment for occupants.

6) Safety Features

Look for advanced safety features when looking to purchase an electric vehicle. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning are some enhancements features in many EVs. Other features you may want to look for include automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Check the safety ratings for the car as it can provide valuable insights into the vehicle’s crash worthiness.

The Mahindra eVerito is one car to look at as it comes equipped with features such as ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, and regenerative braking, ensuring a safe driving experience.

7) Maintenance and Service

Research the maintenance requirements and service network of the electric car manufacturer. Consider factors such as the easy availability of spare parts, service intervals, and the reputation of authorized service centers for a hassle-free ownership experience.

Brands like Tata Motors offer comprehensive service packages and a well-established network of service centers, ensuring prompt assistance and maintenance.

8) Regenerative Braking System

Evaluate the regenerative braking system, which converts kinetic energy into usable electricity, thereby extending the vehicle’s range and reducing brake wear. Different EVs offer varying levels of regenerative braking customization and effectiveness.

The Nissan Leaf features is one such car, offering adjustable regenerative braking levels. The vehicle allows drivers to customize braking regeneration according to their preferences.

9) Infotainment and Connectivity

Explore the infotainment system features, including touchscreen interface, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), navigation, and remote vehicle monitoring/control through mobile apps. These enhance the overall driving experience and convenience.

The MG Gloster offers an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with seamless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, keeping drivers connected on the go.

10) Resale Value and Depreciation

Consider the resale value and depreciation rate of the electric car model over time. Many factors may affect it, including technological advancements, battery degradation, and market demand. All these have capability to highly influence the vehicle’s value retention, impacting long-term ownership costs.

The Tata Tigor EV demonstrates strong value retention over time, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

How Convenient Is Charging an Electric Car in India?

An EV owner can charge their electric car via home charging stations or public charging stations. Recent developments have made it easier for car owners to charge their EVs. 

Public Charging Infrastructure in India

As India’s EV market expands, public charging infrastructure is gradually improving:

• Current Status: Major cities boast a decent number of charging stations, but accessibility in smaller towns and rural areas remains limited. The Ministry of Power reports 12,146 operational public EV charging stations across the country as of February 2, 2024, with plans for further expansion.
• Considerations: Before purchasing an EV, assess the availability of charging stations in your neighbourhood. This ensures convenience during your daily commute.

Home Charging Options and Types of EV Chargers

Charging an electric vehicle at home is a convenient option, facilitated by various types of chargers:

• Standard Chargers: These chargers typically operate on a 230V power supply and are suitable for overnight charging. They provide a slower charging rate and take around 20-24 hours for a full charge. The Tata Nexon EV and the MG ZS EV can be charged using standard home chargers.
• Fast Chargers: These are also known as Level 2 chargers, providing faster charging rates compared to standard chargers. They require a 400V three-phase power supply and can fully charge an EV in a matter of hours. The Hyundai Kona Electric and the Audi e-tron can utilize fast home chargers.
• Portable Chargers: These compact chargers are convenient for EV owners who travel frequently and may not have access to dedicated charging stations. They can be quickly plugged into a standard electrical outlet. The Mahindra e-Verito and the Nissan Leaf are compatible with portable chargers.

What Additional Factors May You Consider When Buying EV?

Are you planning to get an EV? You could lease or buy the car, but what is the best option for you? Let’s understand:

Leasing vs. Buying

If you are still deciding long-term ownership, consider leasing an electric car. Leasing can reduce upfront costs and include maintenance packages, making it cost-effective.

Used Electric Cars

Purchasing a used EV can be an economical alternative. Before making a purchase, ensure you check the battery condition, remaining warranty, and overall vehicle condition.

Hybrid Options

If an all-electric vehicle is not practical, consider a hybrid car. Hybrids offer a mix of electric and internal combustion engine power, reducing emissions while providing the convenience of traditional fuel.

What Are the Environmental Impacts of EVs?

Electric cars are impacting the environment on a large scale. Below are some ways to positively impact the environment by choosing an electric car.

Pollution and Emissions

Electric cars are known for their eco-frienfly nature. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are well-known to significantly reducing air pollution:

• Greenhouse Gases: Driving an EV can substantially decrease your carbon footprint. Even when considering the emissions from electricity production, EVs typically have lower overall emissions than gasoline cars.
• Lifecycle Emissions: Over the entire lifecycle, including manufacturing and disposal, EVs still produce fewer emissions compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

Resource Consumption

Note that the development of electric cars involves the extraction of raw materials, including:

• Battery Materials: Lithium, cobalt, and nickel are essential for EV batteries. Mining these materials can have significant environmental impacts. However, advancements in battery technology aim to reduce the dependency on these materials.
• Recycling: Battery recycling is becoming more efficient. Companies are developing methods to reclaim valuable materials and reduce environmental impact.

What Are Future Trends in Electric Vehicles?

Continual advancements are shaping the future of electric vehicles:

• Battery Technology: Innovations like solid-state batteries promise higher energy densities, faster charging times, and enhanced safety. Companies like Toyota and QuantumScape are leading this research.
• Autonomous Driving: Many EV manufacturers are integrating autonomous driving features. Tesla’s Autopilot and GM’s Super Cruise are examples of semi-autonomous systems currently available.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): This technology allows EVs to supply power back to the grid. This feature in turn helps to stabilize energy demand and supply.

Recent Market Trends in EV 

The EV market is rapidly evolving:

• Increased Adoption: Sales of electric vehicles are expected to continue rising as technology improves and costs decrease. By 2030, EVs could make up a significant portion of new car sales globally.
• Diverse Models: Manufacturers are expanding their EV offerings to include a wide range of automotive types, from compact cars to SUVs and trucks. For example, the Ford F-150 Lightning brings electric power to the popular pickup segment.
• Global Policies: Governments worldwide are setting ambitious targets for EV adoption. The European Union is planning to impose a ban on the sale of new gas as well as diesel cars by 2035, while China is pushing for 25% of all new car sales to be electric by 2025.

Conclusion

It is a given fact that electric cars represent a significant step towards sustainable transportation in India. You can be a part of this green initiate by choosing to buy an electric vehicle.

You can make an informed decision that is in line with your unique needs and budget by considering factors such as costs, specifications, charging infrastructure, and maintenance. As the EV market in India grows, now is a perfect time to explore the benefits of owning an electric vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is it worth buying an EV car?
Ans: Yes, buying an EV can be worth it. It has lower maintenance costs, reduced emissions, and government incentives, depending on your driving habits and lifestyle.

Q2. What is the most important thing in an electric car?
Ans: The battery is the most important component of an electric or hybrid car, as it determines driving range, performance, and overall longevity.

Q3. How long do electric cars last?
Ans: Electric cars can last for several years. Moreoever, modern EV batteries are built to last between 8 to 15 years. However, this largely depends on usage and environmental conditions.

Q4. What characteristics determine the driving range of an electric car?
Ans: Driving range is determined by factors such as battery capacity, driving habits, weather conditions, vehicle weight, and aerodynamics.

Q5. How can I enhance the driving range of my electric car?
Ans: To enhance the driving range of your electric car, you can adopt eco-friendly driving habits, optimize vehicle maintenance, and effectively utilize regenerative braking systems.

Q6. Which type of EV is best?
Ans: The best type of EV depends on your preferences and requirements. Options include Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), each with its own advantages.

Q7. Can I charge my electric car via a regular household outlet?
Ans: Yes, you can charge some electric cars using a regular household outlet, although it may take longer than charging at dedicated EV charging stations.

Q8. How to choose an EV car?
Ans: When choosing an EV car, consider factors such as driving range, charging infrastructure, cost, brand reputation, after-sales service, and your specific driving needs.

Q9. Is EV better than petrol?
Ans: EVs offer advantages such as lower operating costs, reduced emissions, and quieter operation compared to petrol vehicles, but suitability depends on individual preferences and circumstances.