Comprehensive guide for buying an EV

Posted on: Jul 24, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Comprehensive guide for buying an EV

Since EVs are still popularising in the country, there exists a lot of confusion and ambiguity regarding the vehicle. To ensure a safe and secure purchase, you need to consider multiple factors critically before finalising your choice and decision.

In this article, we have carefully highlighted all the important factors that you must consider before you buy any electric car.

Things to consider before buying electric cars

• Price: Although EVs are environmentally friendly, they are mostly not very pocket-friendly. Because of the complicated drivetrain and sophisticated battery packs, EVs are expensive when compared to traditional fuel-driven cars.

• Tax benefits and incentives: The Government offers several incentives and tax benefits to boost EV sales. Consider the percentage before purchasing.

• Software updates: Since EVs remain equipped with complicated powertrains and sophisticated technology, the manufacturers often roll out the latest software updates to maintain the latest form.

• Specifications: EVs are available in a variety of battery packs and electric motors of various capacities. Opt for the one that suits your requirements.

• Driving range: Research in-depth reviews about the real-time driving range of your chosen EV to grab the best deal.

• Battery life: This is the most significant and most expensive component of an EV. Check the battery life before purchasing.

• Charging infrastructure: Since this is still in its developing phase, the charging infrastructure is not yet fully developed. Consider your conveniences well before investing.

• Maintenance cost: This is very crucial to ensure optimum performance. Usually, the maintenance is very simple and budget-friendly. However, the spare parts are quite expensive. Moreover, the availability of skilled mechanics is also comparatively difficult.

• Additional costs: You need to spend on the installation and maintenance of a charging station, a home charger, and the costs of public station charging.

• Practical usability: In a country like India, EVs are not practically viable. The usability remains limited to low-range travel within cities.

• Model and brand: Choosing the right EV is not yet overwhelming, as the options are limited. However, based on the makes, features, etc., the price ranges are varied.

• Post-sales support and service: Choose a brand with a strong after-sales service and support team with trained professionals.

• Hybrid or electric: If EV purchase does not seem to be practically viable to you, you may consider buying a hybrid model. This combines an IC engine and helps the electric motor run smoothly.

• Pre-owned EVs: You can often consider buying a used EV, considering the battery performance, warranty, electric motor condition, tyres, mileage, and the charging options.

Specs to consider before buying electric cars

• Type: Choose the EV variant: fully electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid and fuel cell electric. The hybrid variants do not need any external charging, while the last one is still in the primary stage.

• Driving range: This is very critical as the charging stations are not as easily accessible as any fuel pump.

• Capacity and battery: Usually, these contain lithium-ion battery packs. However, consider the capacity as the higher it is, the better the driving range.

• Charging specifications: Standard charging is the popular mode. Resorting to the fast-charging mode is pricey; however, the time consumption reduces.

Apart from this, you must also consider the acceleration, torque & power, battery warranty, and the energy consumption.

Is insurance required for electric cars?

Yes, car insurance is mandatory for any four-wheeler you own, be it an EV or a conventional vehicle.

Conclusion

Consider this comprehensive electric car buying guide before plunging into your EV ownership journey.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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