As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction in India, potential buyers often raise concerns about the cost of battery replacement. Therefore some argue that replacing an EV battery could ultimately make the total cost of ownership comparable to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. But is this claim accurate?
In reality, the cost of an EV battery is not as intimidating as many assume. With batteries typically lasting 8-10 years and degrading gradually, EVs remain more cost-efficient than ICE vehicles in the long run. Furthermore, ongoing advancements in battery technology are steadily reducing prices. Therefore in this blog, we delve into a detailed analysis of battery replacement costs for India’s leading electric two-wheeler brands, including Ola, Ather, Bajaj, Hero Vida, and TVS, to help you make an informed decision for your next EV purchase.
Battery Types & Capacities
Most electric two-wheelers and bikes in India are powered by Lithium-ion batteries, which are known for their longevity and performance. Moreover, EV batteries are typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), with capacities in the two-wheeler segment usually ranging from 2kWh to 5kWh. As a result, the cost of battery replacement naturally increases with higher capacities. However, unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EV batteries do not fail suddenly. Therefore instead, they gradually degrade over time, and in some instances, individual cells within the battery can be repaired or replaced, extending its overall lifespan.
Here’s a closer look at the battery replacement costs for some of India’s leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers.
1. Ola Electric Battery Prices
Ola Electric has quickly established itself as a leader in the Indian EV market, offering a range of electric scooters with battery capacities between 2kWh and 4kWh. Therefore Here’s a breakdown of the replacement costs for Ola’s models:
- Ola S1 Pro (4kWh): ₹87,000 to ₹90,000
- Ola S1 Air (3kWh): ₹70,000
- Ola S1 X (4kWh): ₹80,000 to ₹85,000
- Ola S1 X (3kWh): ₹70,000
- Ola S1 X (2kWh): ₹55,000
- Ola S1 X+ (3kWh): ₹70,000
Given that Ola’s scooters are among the most popular EVs on Indian roads, understanding the replacement cost of their batteries becomes crucial for making an informed decision. Furthermore this is especially important when considering the long-term value of your investment.
2. Bajaj Chetak Battery Prices
Bajaj’s electric scooter, Chetak, has become a strong contender in the Indian EV market. With a battery capacity of 2.8kWh to 3.2kWh, Bajaj Chetak offers both standard and high-end options. Therefore the battery replacement prices for the Bajaj Chetak are:
- Bajaj Chetak (2.8kWh): ₹60,000 to ₹70,000
- Bajaj Chetak (3.2kWh): ₹70,000 to ₹80,000
Considering Bajaj’s legacy and reliability, it stands out as a strong option for consumers, particularly those seeking a well-built, long-lasting EV.
3. Ather Energy Battery Prices
Known for its premium offerings in the electric two-wheeler market, Ather Energy has built a loyal customer base, thanks to its innovative features and robust service network. Therefore Ather’s battery replacement costs are as follows:
- Ather 450X (2.9kWh): ₹65,000 to ₹70,000
- Ather 450X (3.7kWh): ₹80,000
- Ather 450S (2.9kWh): ₹60,000
- Ather Rizta (3.7kWh): ₹65,000 to ₹80,000
Ather’s extended warranties and battery management systems make their scooters a smart investment for those prioritizing quality and service.
4. Hero Vida Battery Prices
The Hero Vida range, backed by Hero Motors, is known for its reliable performance and innovative removable battery designs. Therefore Battery replacement costs for Vida models are:
- Hero Vida V1 Pro (3.9kWh): ₹85,000
- Hero Vida V1 Plus (3.4kWh): ₹75,000
With Vida’s removable battery packs, they offer great convenience for charging, particularly in urban areas where charging infrastructure is still developing.
5. TVS Ev Battery Prices
TVS Motors has a strong presence in the electric two-wheeler space with its iQube series. While the TVS iQube ST (5.1kWh) is yet to hit the market. Therefore here’s what you can expect in terms of battery replacement for their current models:
- TVS iQube (3.04kWh): ₹60,000 to ₹70,000
- TVS iQube ST (5.1kWh): Estimated at ₹90,000
Therefore TVS combines its rich legacy with innovation, making its electric scooters a preferred choice for Indian commuters.
6. Hero Electric Battery Prices
Hero Electric is a well-known name for offering affordable and widely available electric scooters. Therefore below are the approximate replacement costs for their models:
- Hero Optima CX (2.7kWh): ₹40,000 to ₹45,000
- Hero Photon (2.7kWh): ₹45,000
- Hero NYX (2.7kWh): ₹45,000 to ₹50,000
For budget-conscious buyers, Hero Electric scooters offer solid value with affordable battery replacement options.
7. Revolt Motors Battery Prices
Revolt Motors specializes in electric motorcycles that combine style with performance. Therefore the company’s battery replacement costs are:
- Revolt RV400 (3.24kWh): ₹55,000 to ₹65,000
- Revolt RV300 (2.7kWh): ₹45,000 to ₹50,000
Revolt’s motorcycles are ideal for those who want the look and feel of a traditional bike with the environmental benefits of an electric motor.
8. Okinawa Battery Prices
Okinawa’s electric scooters have found a niche in the budget friendly ev battery prices EV market. Therefore their battery replacement prices are:
- Okinawa Praise Pro (3.3kWh): ₹55,000 to ₹60,000
- Okinawa iPraise+ (3.3kWh): ₹60,000
- Okinawa Lite (2.5kWh): ₹35,000 to ₹40,000
Okinawa is a great choice for buyers looking for an affordable yet reliable electric scooter.
9. Ampere Battery Prices
Ampere, a brand backed by Greaves Electric Mobility, offers affordable electric two-wheelers with moderate battery capacities. Therefore the replacement costs are:
- Ampere Magnus EX (2.29kWh): ₹35,000 to ₹40,000
- Ampere Zeal EX (2.3kWh): ₹35,000 to ₹40,000
Ampere’s low-cost options make it a great entry point for those looking to transition to electric commuting without breaking the bank.
10. Pure EV Battery Prices
Pure EV offers stylish, high-performance electric scooters with competitive pricing. Their battery replacement costs are:
- Pure EV EPluto 7G (2.5kWh): ₹45,000
- Pure EV ETrance Neo (2.5kWh): ₹40,000
Pure EV’s range of scooters is designed for urban commuters who want both style and substance in their electric vehicle.
Conclusion
The notion that EV battery replacement will make electric vehicles as expensive as ICE vehicles is largely a misconception. While replacement costs can vary depending on the brand and model, they remain manageable and far from excessive. Additionally in fact, with the continuous decline in EV battery prices and the option to repair individual cells, the long-term ownership costs of electric two-wheelers are substantially lower than those of their ICE counterparts. Therefore With this guide, you now have a detailed look at the battery replacement costs of leading brands, empowering you to make an informed decision as you consider making the switch to electric mobility.