By: Hari Kiran, Co-Founder & COO, eBike Go
India’s urban mobility landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, and at the forefront of this change is the rapid rise of electric two-wheelers. In a country where two-wheelers account for over 75% of the total vehicular population, the transition from internal combustion engines to electric variants is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a fundamental change in how cities move, breathe, and evolve. As urban centers grow denser and more congested, electric two-wheelers are offering a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient solution to everyday commuting challenges.
The appeal of two-wheeler EVs lies in their alignment with the unique demands of Indian cities. With narrow roads, heavy traffic, and high fuel costs, traditional mobility models have long been strained. Electric scooters and motorcycles present an ideal answer with their compact design, low operating costs, and zero tailpipe emissions. These vehicles not only help decongest roads but also significantly reduce urban air pollution—critical in a country where 14 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are located.
Market Growth and Affordability
The two-wheeler EV market in India is witnessing explosive growth. As of November 2024, cumulative electric two-wheeler sales surpassed 1 million units, marking a 37% year-on-year increase. This growth comes despite the PM E-Drive Scheme offering reduced subsidies, indicating strong consumer interest driven by lower ownership costs and attractive financing options.
In October 2024 alone, 139,031 electric two-wheelers were sold, reflecting an 85% year-on-year growth.. The cost per kilometer of running an electric scooter is approximately ₹0.25, compared to ₹2–2.5 for petrol-powered two-wheelers, making it nearly 10 times cheaper. With petrol prices hovering around ₹100 per litre in many cities, the economics of switching to electric have become increasingly compelling. Government incentives, such as the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme, launched in September 2024 with an outlay of ₹10,900 crore, are making EVs more accessible. This scheme aims to support over 24 lakh electric two-wheelers, among other EV categories.
Gig Economy and Fleet Electrification
The gig economy is proving to be a key driver in EV adoption. Companies have committed to transitioning significant portions of their delivery fleets to electric.
Infrastructure: Growing, but Needs Acceleration
Charging infrastructure, though still developing, is expanding steadily. As of December 2024, India has 25,202 public EV charging stations operational. The government plans to install over 70,000 public fast chargers in high EV-penetration areas and major highways under the PM E-DRIVE scheme.
Additionally, companies like Tata Motors have announced plans to more than double their charging points to 400,000 within the next two years, including 30,000 new public charging points and establishing a ‘Mega Charger’ network with 120-kilowatt fast-charging stations across 500 locations.
Environmental and Health Impact
Transport emissions are responsible for over 11% of India’s total CO₂ output, with a significant chunk coming from urban transport. Transitioning to electric two-wheelers can potentially reduce carbon emissions by 1.5 to 2 tonnes per vehicle per year. With over 300 million two-wheelers projected on Indian roads by 2030, the environmental upside of widespread EV adoption is immense. The shift can dramatically reduce not just CO₂, but also particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions that cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Tech-Driven Urban Mobility
Electric two-wheelers today are more than just battery-powered bikes—they are smart, connected devices. With features like app-based diagnostics, remote locking/unlocking, real-time GPS tracking, and AI-powered riding analytics, EVs are offering a tech-first experience that appeals to India’s increasingly digital-first consumer base. Brands are leveraging IoT to monitor vehicle performance and integrate with smart city initiatives, enabling data-driven urban planning and mobility solutions.
Conclusion
Two-wheeler EVs are not merely vehicles; they are enablers of a new urban narrative—one where mobility is sustainable, intelligent, and inclusive. As India continues to urbanize and modernize, the electric two-wheeler stands out as a symbol of progress, bridging the gap between economic pragmatism and environmental responsibility. With favorable policy, expanding infrastructure, and growing consumer acceptance, the future of urban mobility in India is not just electric—it’s already arriving on two wheels.