For most EV buyers in India, battery life and replacement cost are major concerns. The battery is the heart of the electric vehicle, so as a potential EV buyer it’s important to know what you’re getting into. You may wonder how long do EV batteries last? What causes them to degrade? When should you worry about replacement? Let’s cover these topics.
Most EVs, specifically the modern ones, use lithium-ion batteries, which last for around 8-10 years or 1.5 lakhs kilometers, depending on the vehicle that you use. Most companies like Tata, MG, and Hyundai offer a 8 year, or 160,000 km warranty on the battery. Keep in mind that the Indian infrastructure does limit the performance of these batteries as hot climates can reduce the battery life. Additionally, heavy traffic and frequent braking in densely populated cities and roads can slow the degradation of the battery. A good habit to make sure you make the most of your money, is to use proper charging. Install chargers at homes, and on the road use the EV chargers that are available in cities. If used and charged wisely, most EV owners won’t need a replacement for at least 7-10 years.
Now, you’re probably wondering, how much does it cost to replace an EV Battery in India? EV batteries are expensive aspect of the vehicle, so here is an approximate idea.
| Vehicle | Estimated Battery Replacement Cost |
| Tata Nexon EV | ₹5 – ₹6 lakhs |
| MG ZS EV | ₹7 – ₹8 lakhs |
| Tata Tiago EV | ₹3 – ₹4 lakhs |
| Ather 450X (scooter) | ₹70,000 – ₹1 lakh |
Replacement costs are expected to drop by 30-40% over the next few years, as India continues to build local battery factories.
Can you repair EV Batteries in India?
Another great question. In short, you can fix small, minor issues like software glitches for a price, and brands like Tata and Ola have good service programs for those. Yet, a large amount of degradation will most likely call for a full replacement. Here are some tips to make your EV battery last longer:
- Avoid 100% charges everyday
- Don’t rely on fast charging everyday
- Drive with care
- Take vehicles out for servicing
- Avoid parking in the sunlight
EV battery life shouldn’t be something that stops you from buying these vehicles. The batteries are designed to even outlast petrol engines in overall return on investment and reliability. Don’t be alarmed by the high prices either; technology is advancing, so as it does, prices will drop and lifespans will improve, so get your EV investment strategy done today!