Even though demand for electric cars (EVs) decreased in the first quarter of FY25, the industry leader, Tata Motors, has noticed a change in consumer preferences away from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. 36% of consumers gave up on their internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, according to a Tata Motors poll, and 75% now drive electric cars as their primary mode of transportation.
Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Shailesh Chandra presented findings from a survey of 10,000 consumers, emphasizing a notable shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) as the main family vehicle. He pointed out that since EV batteries only need to be changed every eight years, they require less maintenance. Tata Motors hopes that the Curvv electric vehicle would allay customer concerns about range. The Curvv, which is priced at ₹17.49 lakh and is a component of the acti.ev electric architecture, boasts a maximum range of 585 km on a 55kWh battery pack.
Chandra underlined the necessity of adaptable cars fit for intercity travel, especially given the current state of the charging infrastructure. By providing a greater range and aiming for price parity with automated ICE vehicles, the Curvv is made to address these issues.
Tata Motors has reported a decline in the demand for EVs this quarter, which it attributes to the removal of the FAME subsidy. With 16,600 EVs sold, EV penetration is 12%.
While many consumers still choose internal combustion engines (ICE vehicles), dealers have noticed an uptick in queries about electric vehicles. Still, there are more and more EVs available. The Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) president, Manish Raj Singhania, stated that they anticipate a surge in EV penetration as more electric models hit the market and as more manufacturers enter the EV field. FADA is dedicated to encouraging environmentally responsible business practices in the retail vehicle sector.
