Know the Cost of Electric Car Charging in India 2025

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India is accelerating faster than ever. With rising fuel costs and the government’s push toward sustainable mobility, more car buyers are switching to electric cars. But one question that still concerns most potential EV owners is: “How much does it actually cost to charge an EV in India in 2025?”

Whether you own an EV or are planning to buy one soon, understanding the Cost of Electric Car Charging in India can help you estimate your monthly expenses and make informed decisions. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about EV charging costs — from home charging expenses to public fast charging, and even how to save money on your charging bills.

1. Why Understanding EV Charging Cost Is Important

Unlike petrol or diesel, the cost of electricity can vary depending on the charging station type, state electricity tariffs, and time of use. Knowing the charging cost:

• Helps in comparing EVs vs. petrol/diesel vehicles
• Gives clarity on monthly running expenses
• Helps select the best charging option for your lifestyle
• Encourages eco-friendly driving habits

Fact Check (2025):

• Petrol price in most cities: ₹100+ per litre
• Average electricity tariff: ₹6–₹12 per unit (kWh)
• Average EV efficiency: 6–8 km per kWh

This means EVs can be up to 70% cheaper to run compared to petrol cars.

2. EV Charging Options in India 2025

EV owners in India have two primary charging options:

a) Home Charging (AC Slow Charging)

This is the most common and cost-effective method. Most EVs come with a 15A socket or a dedicated wall box charger.

• Charging Speed: 6–8 hours (0–100%)
• Cost per unit: ₹6–₹8 (depending on state tariff)
• Best For: Daily charging overnight

b) Public Charging (Fast Charging DC)

Public chargers are ideal for quick top-ups during travel.

• Charging Speed: 30–90 minutes (0–80%)
• Cost per unit: ₹15–₹25 (depending on operator)
• Best For: Long drives and emergency charging

Pro Tip: If you have the option, always charge at home overnight — it’s significantly cheaper.

3. EV Charging Cost Calculation (With Example)

Let’s take an example of the Tata Nexon EV (30.2 kWh battery, 312 km range) to understand charging costs in 2025.

Parameter	Home Charging	Public Fast Charging
Battery Capacity	30.2 kWh	30.2 kWh
Cost per unit (kWh)	₹7	₹20
Total Charging Cost	₹211.4	₹604
Approximate Range per Charge	300+ km	300+ km
Cost per km	₹0.70	₹2.01

Conclusion: Home charging is nearly 3 times cheaper than public fast charging.

4. State-Wise EV Charging Cost in India 2025

EV charging tariffs differ across states. Here’s an approximate snapshot of residential EV charging rates:

State/UT	Average Tariff (per kWh)	Cost to Charge 30 kWh
Delhi	₹6	₹180
Maharashtra	₹8	₹240
Karnataka	₹7	₹210
Tamil Nadu	₹6.5	₹195
Gujarat	₹7	₹210
Uttar Pradesh	₹8	₹240
Telangana	₹7.5	₹225

(Note: Rates may vary based on slab and local DISCOM charges.)

5. Public EV Charging Network Growth in 2025

India’s EV charging infrastructure has grown rapidly between 2022–2025.

• Over 12,000+ public EV charging stations are operational nationwide.
• Major players like Tata Power, Statiq, Jio-BP, and ChargeZone are expanding fast.
• Fast chargers are now available on national highways and metro cities.

Types of Public Chargers:

• AC Chargers: Slower, cheaper
• DC Fast Chargers: Quick, expensive but convenient
• Ultra-Fast Chargers: Premium, found mostly on highways

6. Factors That Influence EV Charging Cost

Several variables affect the final cost of EV charging:

• Electricity Tariff: Varies state to state
• Time of Charging: Some DISCOMs offer lower rates during off-peak hours
• Charger Type: Home chargers are cheaper than commercial fast chargers
• Battery Size: Larger batteries cost more to charge
• Efficiency: Vehicle efficiency impacts per km cost

For example, a Hyundai Kona EV with a 39.2 kWh battery will cost more to charge than a Tata Tiago EV with a smaller battery.

7. Government Initiatives & Subsidies

To make EV adoption more affordable, the Indian government has rolled out several initiatives:

• FAME II Scheme: Provides incentives for EV buyers and infrastructure
• GST Reduction: EVs are taxed at only 5% GST
• Charging Station Subsidies: Encouraging private and commercial setups
• Time-of-Day Tariffs: Lower charging rates during off-peak hours in some states

These measures are aimed at making EV charging more accessible and cost-efficient across India.

8. Tips to Reduce Your EV Charging Cost

1. Charge Overnight: Take advantage of cheaper tariffs.
2. Use Smart Chargers: They help schedule and optimize charging.
3. Install Solar Panels: Generate your own clean electricity.
4. Monitor Battery: Avoid frequent full charges to increase efficiency.
5. Plan Long Trips: Pre-check charging stations to avoid premium charges.

Expert Insight: Many EV owners save up to ₹20,000 annually compared to petrol car owners by following smart charging habits.

9. EV Charging Cost vs. Petrol/Diesel Cost

Vehicle Type	Cost per km (approx.)	Monthly Running Cost (1000 km)
Petrol Car	₹7–₹10	₹7,000–₹10,000
Diesel Car	₹6–₹8	₹6,000–₹8,000
Electric Car (Home)	₹0.7–₹1.2	₹700–₹1,200
Electric Car (Public)	₹2–₹3	₹2,000–₹3,000

EVs can save you up to 80% on running costs compared to fuel cars.

10. Future of EV Charging Cost in India

Experts predict that EV charging costs will remain stable or decrease due to:

• Better energy efficiency
• More renewable energy integration
• Advanced battery technology
• Wider charging network

By 2030, India aims for 30% of new vehicles to be electric, and with that, charging costs are expected to become even more competitive.

Conclusion

EV charging in India is affordable, efficient, and increasingly convenient.

• Home charging is the most cost-effective option.
• Public charging is expanding rapidly, ensuring long-distance travel is hassle-free.
• With government support, owning an EV is more economical than ever.

If you’re planning to buy an electric vehicle in 2025, understanding the charging cost structure will help you maximize savings and enjoy a smooth EV ownership experience.

Key Takeaways

• Average home charging cost: ₹6–₹8 per unit
• Public fast charging cost: ₹15–₹25 per unit
• Cost per km (EV): ₹0.7–₹3 (vs. ₹7–₹10 for petrol)
• Over 12,000+ public charging stations across India
• Smart charging can lower your electricity bills

Frequently Asked Questions.

1. How much does it cost to fully charge an electric car in India in 2025?

The cost to fully charge an electric car in India in 2025 typically ranges from ₹180 to ₹250 at home and ₹500 to ₹750 at public fast chargers, depending on the battery size and state electricity tariff.

2. Is it cheaper to charge an EV at home or at a public station?

Yes, home charging is much cheaper. The average cost per unit at home is ₹6–₹8, while public fast chargers cost ₹15–₹25 per unit. Home charging can save you up to 70% on running costs.

3. How long does it take to charge an EV at home in India?

It usually takes 6 to 8 hours to fully charge an EV at home using a 15A socket or wall box charger. Fast chargers can charge most EVs up to 80% in just 30 to 90 minutes.

4. Are there any government subsidies for EV charging in India?

Yes, the Indian government offers FAME II incentives, lower GST on EVs, and support for setting up home and public charging stations. Some states also offer reduced tariffs during off-peak hours.

Q.5. How much does it cost to run an EV per kilometer in India?

On average, EVs cost ₹0.7 to ₹1.2 per km when charged at home and ₹2 to ₹3 per km when charged at public fast charging stations. In comparison, petrol cars cost ₹7–₹10 per km.