Has India’s Love for Electric Two-Wheelers Hit a Speed Bump?

Let’s rewind to a couple of years ago. Everywhere you looked, someone was unboxing a brand-new electric scooter. Whether it was your city’s delivery guy zipping silently by or a college buddy flexing his futuristic dashboard, EVs were the talk of the town. They were clean, stylish, and cheaper to run—what’s not to love?

Fast forward to today, and the vibe feels... a bit off. The hype is still there, but the momentum? Not quite as loud as before. So, what’s going on? Is India falling out of love with electric two-wheelers?

Let’s take a closer look—rider to rider.

1. The Subsidy Slowdown: What Happened to the Savings?

The biggest nudge towards EVs was the sweet discount offered under the FAME II policy—a government scheme that gave electric two-wheelers a price cut of up to ₹20,000. It was a game-changer. Suddenly, e-scooters were competing with petrol bikes on price, and many of us jumped at the chance.

But lately, that support’s taken a hit.

Due to delays in paperwork verification and concerns around whether certain brands met the Indian manufacturing requirements, subsidy payouts have been paused for several players. And that means prices on paper may no longer reflect what you’ll actually pay.

Heads up: If you're eyeing a new EV, always ask the dealer if the subsidy is applied and approved, not just promised. That small question could save—or cost—you thousands.

Why it matters for you: Planning your budget is half the ride—know exactly what you’ll pay upfront, so there are no unwelcome jolts when finance hits your account.

2. Big Brands vs Bold Startups

In the beginning, electric mobility was a playground for fresh startups—names you’d never heard before were rolling out tech-loaded, app-connected scooters every other week. The energy was infectious. But as things matured, established players like TVS, Bajaj, and Hero started stepping in.

And when it comes to after-sales support, spare parts, and servicing across towns and cities, these giants have the edge. Meanwhile, some of the early movers—like boutique EV makers—are struggling to stay in the race.

What this means for you: Cool design and innovation are great, but think long-term. Will your EV get fixed quickly if it breaks down 300 km from home? Service networks matter—maybe even more than battery range.

3. Ola: The Poster Child That Stumbled

Let’s talk about Ola Electric—the brand that once held nearly 50% of the EV market. Their scooters were stylish, powerful, and launched with massive anticipation. But reality wasn’t all smooth roads. Shipping delays, complaints around quality, and scrutiny over subsidy claims shook rider confidence. Even after a massive IPO, their revenue has taken a noticeable dip.

The takeaway? Big numbers and flashy marketing don’t always guarantee a seamless riding experience. Read reviews, talk to riders who’ve owned one for a few months, and test the waters before diving in.

4. What Should a Smart Rider Do Now?

Thinking of switching to electric? Here’s a cheat sheet to keep your ride dreams practical:

• Check the real cost: Don’t just look at the MRP. Ask about on-road price after confirmed subsidies. Factor in savings on fuel and future servicing costs too.
• Battery type matters: Some brands offer swappable batteries—great if you live in an apartment or can’t install a home charger. Others give fixed packs with better performance but less flexibility.
• Range anxiety is real: Make sure the range fits your actual usage. And don’t forget—EVs often perform best in city conditions, not always on highways.
• Charging options: Find out if there’s a public charger near your office, home, or frequent haunts. You don’t want your scooter to become a glorified showpiece.

5. Why It’s Not the End of the Road

Sure, the excitement has dipped—but don’t mistake that for failure. India’s electric story is still being written.

• Local manufacturing is picking up, which could stabilize prices in the long run.
• Battery tech is evolving, with longer life cycles and better safety.
• Charging networks are expanding, especially along urban corridors and highways.

So while the early EV euphoria may have mellowed out, the fundamentals for future growth are strong. And for those who do their homework, ask the right questions, and choose wisely, an electric two-wheeler can still be a smart, economical, and eco-friendly ride.

Final Thoughts

As riders, we know that not every road is smooth—but that doesn’t mean we stop the ride. The EV space in India is shifting gears, not shutting down. Take your time, weigh your options, and talk to fellow riders who’ve been there, done that. The joy of two wheels—silent or roaring—is still very much alive.

And when you’re ready to make the switch, make sure it’s on your terms—not just the latest trend.

Use Asteride to Ride Smarter

With the Asteride app, you can:

• Plan your rides with ease—solo or with your group
• Discover rides and riding communities across India
• Stay updated with biker news, tips, and events inside the app
• Log your rides and relive every memory in your Roadbook

Download Asteride – Built for riders who care about every mile.

Ride sharp. Ride safe. See you out there.