Top Electric Cars Under 15 Lakh for the First-time EV Buyer

Key Highlights:

• From compact hatchbacks to mini SUVs, there are good EV options for every kind of buyer.
• EVs cost less to run and maintain. Great for your wallet over time.
• Go a little over budget, and you get better range, more features, and premium performance.

Best Electric Cars Under 15 Lakh in India

Given below is a comprehensive overview of all electric cars sold in India that cost under ₹15 lakh (ex‑showroom). The list explains why a certain EV is worth considering, including its starting price, key features, range and powertrain output. However, the final decision should be made only after a detailed test drive.

MG Comet EV

The MG Comet EV is currently the most affordable electric car in India, with an ex-showroom (Delhi) price ranging from ₹4.99 to 6.99 lakh under the Battery-as-a-Service option. The pricing rises to a range of ₹7.98 to 9.98 lakh when purchased with the battery.

It runs on a 17.3 kWh battery and delivers 41bhp along with 110Nm of torque. Alongside an ARAI-certified range of 230 km, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds, making it well-suited for short city journeys.

Though compact, it comes equipped with features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, advanced connectivity, and wireless phone charging. The MG Comet EV presents an economical solution for those looking for a small, efficient urban commuter.

Tata Tiago EV

Priced from ₹7.99 lakh ex‑showroom (Delhi), the Tiago EV stands out as one of the most budget-friendly electric cars currently available in India.

It comes with a choice of two battery packs: a 19.2  kWh unit delivering 60bhp and 11Nm alongside an ARAI-certified range of 250 km, and a larger 24 kWh pack producing 73.8bhp and 114Nm with a claimed range of 315 km.

Key features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, automatic climate control, hill-hold assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Citroën eC3

The Citroën eC3 has quickly become a popular option among fleet operators and is priced between ₹11.50 and ₹12.76 lakh ex-showroom (Delhi).

It features a 29.2 kWh battery coupled with a motor that produces 55bhp and 143Nm of torque, offering a claimed driving range of 320 km.

The eC3, visually identical to the regular petrol-powered C3, combines a crossover-like stance with spacious interiors and an extra-comfortable ride. Citroën is globally recognised for delivering some of the softest ride qualities in any segment it competes in.

Tata Punch EV

The Tata Punch EV, the electric avatar of India’s top-selling car in 2024, has quickly become a favourite in the city-friendly micro-SUV segment. Priced from ₹9.99 lakh ex-showroom (Delhi), it is available with two battery options: 25 kWh and 35 kWh. The smaller battery produces 80bhp and 114Nm of torque while the larger version delivers 120bhp and 190Nm, offering noticeably stronger performance.

It has earned a 5-star safety rating from BNCAP and comes equipped with welcome features such as a 360-degree camera system, auto-hold function, blind-spot monitoring and disc brakes on all four wheels (higher variants).

Tata Tigor EV

Priced between ₹12.49 and ₹13.75 lakh ex-showroom (Delhi), the Tigor EV comes equipped with a 26 kWh battery that promises a MIDC-certified range of 315 km. Its electric powertrain produces 74bhp and 170Nm of torque.

While it may not be as much of a seller as its hatchback sibling, the Tigor EV is appreciated for being a well-balanced sub-4-metre compact sedan. It offers features such as a Harman sound system, automatic climate control and keyless entry, among others. Combining affordability, usable range and more luggage space, it stands out as a sensible choice for small families.

Tata Nexon EV (Medium Range)

The Tata Nexon EV ‘Medium Range’ variant starts at ₹12.49 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, with the long-range variant priced just under ₹17 lakh.

The Medium Range comes with a 30.2 kWh battery that delivers 127bhp and 215Nm of torque, offering a certified driving range of about 325 km on a full charge. The ‘Long Range’ version features a larger 40.5 kWh battery, providing an ARAI-claimed range of 489 km and a stronger power output of 148bhp and 245Nm.

Notable features include a 12.3-inch voice-assisted touchscreen, sunroof, hill-hold assist, rear AC vents and a five-star safety rating from BNCAP. The Tata Nexon EV remains one of the most popular electric vehicles in India.

MG Windsor EV

Starting at ₹9.99 lakh ex-showroom (in ‘Battery As A Service’ format), the MG Windsor EV is known for its spacious interior, distinctive styling and strong value-for-money proposition.

It is especially popular among first-time EV buyers who prefer to be chauffeured rather than drive themselves. The Windsor EV Pro, which begins at ₹12.25 lakh ex-showroom, stands apart from the standard model by offering a larger 52.9 kWh battery, an extended claimed range of 449 km and the addition of Level 2 ADAS. Both versions deliver 134bhp and 200Nm of torque.

Balancing Budget vs Value: What to Choose at 15 Lakh?

At this price point, you are mostly left with a choice between the higher variants of a lower-segment car and the lower variants of a higher-segment car. If your objective is strictly everyday commuting in medium to heavy traffic, we recommend going for the former. However, if you are willing to stretch your budget a little bit, you might be able to grab a great deal on a more premium EV in a mid-format, but with minimal shortcomings.

Pro Tip: Many EVs come with multiple battery options. Go for the larger battery if your daily commute is long or you plan frequent intercity travel. For short, urban drives, the smaller battery is usually enough and more affordable.

FAQs

1. Is the top variant of the Tata Nexon EV available under ₹15 lakh ex-showroom?

No, only the Medium Range trims are available in this price category. ARAI-claimed range figure stands at 325 km compared to the Long Range’s 489 km.

2. How many Tata EVs come under ₹15 lakh ex-showroom?

Tata Motors has got 4 EVs in this price category: Tiago.ev, Tigor.ev, Punch.ev and the Nexon.ev.

3. Which EV in India under ₹15 lakh has the highest range?

Boasting an ARAI-claimed figure of 449 km, the MG Windsor EV Pro variant has the highest range under a price tag of ₹15 lakh ex-showroom.