Budget-Friendly Electric Vehicles in India: A Complete Guide to Affordable EVs in 2025

Rising fuel prices and expanding government support are driving India toward greener mobility. Budget-friendly EVs—compact, affordable, and efficient—offer a compelling alternative for daily commuters and city dwellers. This guide examines the best affordable electric cars available in 2025, helping you decide which one fits your lifestyle and budget.

 

Why Choose a Budget EV?

 Benefits:

• Low running costs: Electricity beats petrol or diesel for cost per km The Times of India

• Eco-friendly: Reduced emissions, especially in congested cities GoMechanic.

• Government incentives: Subsidies, tax breaks, free charging, and battery-rental plans Reuters

 Limitations:

• Limited range compared to mid- or high-tier EVs.

• Charging infrastructure is still growing.

• Fewer model options, especially for premium features.

Top Budget EVs in India (Under ₹15 Lakh)

Model	Price (₹ Lakh)	Range (km)	Key Features
MG Comet EV	6.99–9.98	~230	Compact city car, dual screens (Timeslife, GoMechanic, BolBuzz, Times Bull)
Tata Tiago EV	7.99–12.04	250–315	Dual battery options, fast charging
Tata Punch EV	9.99–14.29	~315	SUV styling, fast charger
Citroën eC3	11.61–12.79	~320	Stylish design, good connectivity
Tata Tigor EV	12.49–13.75	~315	Sedan form, family features

Latest Trends & Innovations

• Battery‑as‑a‑Service: MG’s rental plan lowers upfront cost GoMechanic

• Subsidies & Infrastructure: Delhi’s policy to install chargers every 5 km; states targeting 95% EV adoption in new vehicles by 2027 The Times of India

• Price Drops: MG ZS EV received up to ₹4.44 lakh price cut, signaling aggressive affordability push settaxes.com

How to Choose the Right Budget EV

Decision Checklist:

• Range need: For city driving, 200 km is enough; longer-range users may need top-up chargers.

• Charging access: Does your area have AC/DC charging points?

• Form factor: Hatchback, sedan, or micro‑SUV?

• Features: AC fast charging? Infotainment? Safety kit?

• Ownership cost: Compare subsidies, battery maintenance, and insurance.

Overview of Popular Budget EV Models

MG Comet EV

• Price: ₹6.99 lakh

• Range: 230 km

• Ideal for urban commuters with compact size and basic tech Wikipedia

Tata Tiago EV

• Price: ₹7.99–12.04 lakh

• Range: 250–315 km

• Offers battery options and fast charging.

Tata Punch EV

• Price: ₹9.99–14.29 lakh

• Range: ~315 km

• Compact SUV features and good ground clearance for mixed use GoMechanic

Citroën eC3

• Price: ₹11.61–12.79 lakh

• Range: ~320 km

• Offers European styling, comfortable interiors, and AC fast charging Medium

Tata Tigor EV

• Price: ₹12.49–13.75 lakh

• Range: ~315 km

• Sedan form factor, safety features, and adequate space Quick Insure

Tips for Buying & Owning a Budget EV

Incentives: Evaluate local subsidies, juicing stations, and battery-plan deals.

Home charging: Invest in an AC charger; faster charging is still limited.

Compare total costs: Look beyond sticker price—include insurance, running, and battery maintenance.

Test drive: Check ride comfort, regen modes, visibility, and usability.

Resale: Consider warranty transfers and expected battery degradation.

FAQs

Q1: Which is the least expensive EV in India currently?
The MG Comet EV, starting around ₹6.99 lakh—India’s cheapest electric car in 2025 Quick Insure

Q2: Can I drive a budget EV on highways?
Yes, models like Tiago, Punch, and eC3 offer over 300 km—suitable for moderate highway trips with DC infrastructure support.

Q3: How long does charging take?
Using a 25 kW DC charger, expect 57 minutes to charge up to 80%, depending on model Medium

Q4: Are budget EVs safe?
Explosion-resistant battery packs, ABS, ESC, and airbags are standard on models like Tiago EV and Punch EV.

Q5: What are battery‑rental plans?
MG Comet and MG ZS EV offer Battery-as-a-Service models, where buyers rent the battery instead of buying it outright CarnBikeCafe

Conclusion: Are Budget EVs Right for You?

With compelling price points, practicality, low running costs, and growing infrastructure, budget EVs in India are now a viable option for many. From compact commuters like the MG Comet to practical entries like the Tata Tiago, there is an EV that suits nearly every need and pocket.

If your driving is mainly urban or covers daily rounds under 300 km, a budget EV is a smart choice—economical, green, and increasingly convenient.