India’s electric two-wheeler market has experienced rapid growth in 2025, particularly within the affordable price segment. Many first-time EV buyers are now looking for reliable electric scooters under ₹1 lakh, considering their affordability and environment-friendly benefits. But before you make that purchase, it’s essential to explore the Pros or Cons of Electric Scooters Under 1 Lakh in detail.
“Top Electric Scooters Under ₹1 Lakh in 2025”
Whether you’re a daily office commuter, a college student, or someone who just wants to beat petrol price hikes, this blog will help you understand if budget EV scooters are the right fit for your lifestyle. Check here Pros or Cons of Electric Scooters Under 1 Lakh.
Why Electric Scooters Under ₹1 Lakh Are So Popular in 2025
The ₹1 lakh price point has become the sweet spot for many EV brands. Government subsidies, improving battery technology, and increasing urban demand for short-distance commutes have created a perfect environment for growth.
A few key reasons behind the popularity:
- Petrol prices continue to rise, making EVs more economical in the long run.
- State and central EV subsidies have made it easier to afford quality electric scooters under ₹1 lakh.
- Cities are becoming EV-friendly with better charging infrastructure and road tax waivers.
- Budget-conscious youth and working professionals see EV scooters as a practical choice.
- “Popular Models to Consider”
But like any technology or vehicle, there are pros and cons you must consider before investing. Let’s explore both.
Pros or Cons of Electric Scooters Under 1 Lakh
Pros of Budget Electric Scooters in 2025
1. Affordable Entry Point into EV Ownership
Electric scooters under ₹1 lakh make it easy for first-time EV buyers to enter the market without burning a hole in their pocket. After factoring in FAME-II and state subsidies, many scooters cost between ₹80,000–₹95,000 on-road.
Popular examples:
- Ola S1X (2 kWh) – Approx. ₹79,999
- TVS iQube 2.2kWh – Around ₹95,000 after subsidy
- Ather 450S – Priced close to ₹97,000
- Final Verdict: Should You Buy or Wait?
2. Extremely Low Running Costs
One of the biggest advantages is the cost per kilometre. Compared to ₹2.5/km for petrol scooters, this is a major saving over the year.
3. Subsidies, Road Tax Exemptions, and Insurance Benefits
Electric scooters under ₹1 lakh benefit from multiple state-level subsidies. States such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Gujarat provide additional incentives over and above the central FAME-II subsidy.
Also:
- Zero registration charges
- Lower road tax
- Lower insurance premiums for EVs
4. Eco-Friendly and Low Maintenance
Budget EV scooters emit zero tailpipe emissions, making them ideal for clean city commuting.
- Fewer breakdowns
- No engine oil changes
- Low servicing cost
5. Perfect for City & Short Commutes
If your daily travel is 20–40 km within the city, an electric scooter under ₹1 lakh fits perfectly. Most models in this range offer a real-world range of 60–90 km, which is enough for two days of use without needing a charge.
Limitations of Budget Electric Scooters in 2025
1. Limited Range and Performance
Most scooters under ₹1 lakh come with 2kWh to 2.5kWh batteries. While good for city commutes, they struggle beyond 60–90 km range. If you often take long rides or travel intercity, you might face range anxiety.
Also, top speeds are generally capped at 60–70 km/h, which may not suit highway riders.
2. Basic Features and Build Quality
At this price point, you’ll likely get:
- Plastic-heavy body panels
- Basic digital displays
- Limited smart features (no touchscreen, no app support in some models)
The suspension, ride quality, and seating may not be as comfortable or premium as higher-end models.
3. Battery Replacement Costs After 3–5 Years
Lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan of approx. 700–1000 charging cycles. After 3–5 years, the battery performance may drop, and you’ll have to spend ₹25,000–₹40,000 for a replacement – which is almost 40–50% of the vehicle’s cost.
This long-term cost is often ignored by first-time buyers.
4. Charging Time and Infrastructure Limitations
Charging an electric scooter at home from 0–100% takes around 4–6 hours. If you don’t have a dedicated parking spot or socket, this can become a hassle.
While public chargers are growing in cities, they are still scarce in tier-2 and tier-3 areas.
5. Resale Market is Still Developing
Unlike petrol two-wheelers, the resale market for EVs is still evolving. Buyers are cautious about second-hand battery condition, software issues, and warranty gaps.
As a result, resale values of electric scooters under ₹1 lakh may not be very attractive.
Who Should Buy a Budget EV Scooter in 2025?
Recommended For:
- College students or first-time buyers on a budget
- Daily commuters traveling within 20–40 km/day
- People looking for an eco-friendly alternative to petrol
- Riders who can charge at home and don’t need long range
Not Recommended For:
- Highway commuters or long-distance riders
- Users without home charging access
- Buyers expecting premium comfort and tech features
- Who Should or Shouldn’t Buy” (under Not Recommended For)
Popular Electric Scooters Under ₹1 Lakh in 2025
| Model | Range (Claimed) | Top Speed | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx) |
| Ola S1X (2kWh) | 90 km | 85 km/h | ₹79,999 |
| TVS iQube (2.2kWh) | 75 km | 78 km/h | ₹94,999 |
| Ather 450S | 90 km | 90 km/h | ₹96,999 |
| Bajaj Chetak 2901 | 123 km (IDC) | 63 km/h | ₹95,998 |
| Hero Vida V1 Plus | 100 km | 80 km/h | ₹99,900 |
Note: Prices include approx. subsidies and vary state-wise.
Should You Buy One?
Understanding the Pros or Cons of Electric Scooters Under 1 Lakh can help you make a better decision. If you want a daily-use scooter with minimal running cost, easy city mobility, and are okay with basic features — a budget EV scooter is a great pick in 2025.
However, if you’re expecting long-range performance, fast charging, premium design, or plan to keep the vehicle long-term, it might be worth extending your budget slightly.
FAQs: Pros or Cons of Electric Scooters Under 1 Lakh
Q1: Can I get subsidies for EV scooters in 2025?
Yes. Central (FAME-II) and state governments offer subsidies that reduce the effective cost under ₹1 lakh. Check your state’s latest subsidy policy.
Q2: Is home charging enough or do I need a public charger?
For most city users with daily usage below 40–50 km, home charging is enough. Public chargers are an added benefit but not mandatory.
Q3: How long does an EV battery last?
Typically 3–5 years or 700–1000 cycles. Post that, range may reduce, and you may need a replacement.
Q4: Do budget EV scooters have enough power for two riders?
Yes, they can carry two adults, but performance (pickup & hill climbs) may feel sluggish compared to petrol scooters.
Q5: Which scooter gives the highest mileage under ₹1 lakh in India?
Models like Ather 450S, Bajaj Chetak 2901, and Hero Vida V2 are known for impressive range. Explore the full list here: Top 10 Mileage Kings: Electric Scooters in India Under 1 Lakh (2025 Edition)