If you’re searching for affordable EVs under ₹10–12 lakh in India, you’re not alone. Rising petrol prices, low running costs, and government subsidies have made electric cars more attractive than ever for Indian buyers.
The good news? You don’t need a huge budget anymore to switch to electric mobility. In 2026, there are practical, city-friendly electric cars that fit within ₹10–12 lakh (ex-showroom), offering decent range, modern features, and surprisingly low maintenance costs.
Let’s break everything down in simple terms — price, range, charging cost, features, pros & cons — so you can decide confidently.
Why Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh Are Gaining Popularity in India
Electric vehicle adoption in India is accelerating due to:
- High petrol and diesel prices
- Lower cost per km compared to ICE cars
- Government subsidies under FAME-II & state EV policies
- Growing charging infrastructure
- Low maintenance requirements
For daily city commuters, small families, and first-time car buyers, budget electric cars are becoming a smart alternative.
Read more: Upcoming EV Launch List for India (2026): Complete Smart Guide for Buyers
Quick Featured Snippet: Best Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh
The best affordable EVs under ₹10–12 lakh in India include compact electric hatchbacks offering 230–315 km range, low charging costs (₹1–1.5 per km), and government subsidy benefits. These cars are ideal for city commuting and short highway trips while keeping running and maintenance costs extremely low.
Top Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh in India (2026)
Below are some of the most popular budget electric cars currently available in India within this price range.
1. Tata Tiago EV
- Price: Approx ₹7.99 – ₹11.89 lakh
- Range: 250–315 km (claimed)
- Battery: 19.2 kWh / 24 kWh
- Fast charging support available
- 4-star GNCAP safety (ICE variant basis)
Why it stands out:
Affordable entry point, reliable brand, practical for city driving.
2. MG Comet EV
- Price: Approx ₹6.99 – ₹9.98 lakh
- Range: Around 230 km
- Ultra-compact design
- Smart connected features
Best for:
Urban users, tight parking spaces, short daily commute.
3. Citroën eC3 (Base Variants)
- Price: Around ₹11–12 lakh
- Range: 320 km (claimed)
- Larger cabin compared to most small EVs
- Comfortable suspension for Indian roads
Best for:
Families needing more space in a budget EV.
Comparison Table: Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) | Claimed Range | Fast Charging | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Tiago EV | ₹7.99–11.89 L | 250–315 km | Yes | Balanced city use |
| MG Comet EV | ₹6.99–9.98 L | 230 km | Limited | Urban commute |
| Citroën eC3 | ₹11–12 L | 320 km | Yes | Family use |
(Prices may vary by state & subsidy)
Real-World Running Cost Comparison
One of the biggest reasons people search for affordable EVs under ₹10–12 lakh is running cost savings.
Approximate Cost Per Km:
- Petrol car: ₹6–8 per km
- EV (home charging): ₹1–1.5 per km
If you drive 1,000 km per month:
- Petrol: ₹6,000–8,000
- EV: ₹1,000–1,500
That’s a huge difference over 5 years.
Charging Infrastructure in India – Is It Enough?
Many buyers worry about charging stations.
Here’s the reality:
- Metro cities have rapidly expanding EV charging networks
- Highway fast chargers are increasing
- 80% users rely mainly on home charging
If you have parking with power access, owning a budget EV becomes much easier.
Who Should Buy Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh?
These electric cars are ideal for:
- Daily office commuters
- Families with city driving needs
- First-time car buyers
- People driving under 50 km per day
- Those wanting low maintenance vehicles
Not ideal for:
- Very frequent long highway trips
- Rural areas without charging support
Government Subsidies & Benefits
Depending on your state, you may get:
- State EV subsidy
- Road tax exemption
- Registration fee waiver
- Lower insurance premiums
This makes affordable EVs even more attractive compared to traditional petrol cars.
Things to Check Before Buying a Budget EV
Before finalizing your purchase:
Real-world range vs claimed range
Charging time (slow vs fast charger)
Battery warranty (usually 8 years)
Resale value potential
Service center availability
Home charging setup cost
Pros and Cons of Affordable EVs
Pros
- Extremely low running cost
- Silent and smooth drive
- Low maintenance
- Government incentives
- Eco-friendly option
Cons
- Limited highway range
- Charging time required
- Battery replacement cost long-term
Are Affordable EVs Under ₹10–12 Lakh Worth It in 2026?
For city use — absolutely yes.
If your daily driving is predictable and you can charge at home, an EV in this budget makes financial sense within 3–5 years.
However, if you regularly drive 400–500 km highway trips, you may still prefer a hybrid or petrol option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the best affordable EV under ₹10 lakh in India?
Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV are among the most popular options in this price range.
2. What is the average range of budget electric cars?
Most affordable EVs offer 200–320 km claimed range.
3. How much does it cost to charge an EV at home?
Home charging usually costs ₹1–1.5 per km depending on electricity rates.
4. Do affordable EVs get government subsidy?
Yes, depending on state policies and eligibility.
5. Is EV maintenance cheaper than petrol cars?
Yes. EVs have fewer moving parts and no engine oil changes, reducing service costs.