India is going electric, charged by the launch of the latest born-EV and tech-loaded models that not only look from the future but also pack some real power under the frunk.
Indian EV giants like Tata Motors and Mahindra and global leaders like BYD, Mercedes and Audi are making it an exciting time to invest in an EV.
However, owning an electric car and selecting the right model comes with unique considerations.
Before taking the plunge, there are several essential factors you should consider to ensure a seamless ownership experience.
Here’s a checklist to help you prepare for EV ownership:
1. Check the Power Load at Home
Your home’s electrical capacity plays a critical role in EV ownership and is often overlooked or ignored in the excitement.
Most EV chargers require a substantial power supply.
Indian households typically operate on a 3-5 kW load, which is insufficient for installing fast chargers of say 7 kW or more.
While considering an EV, first check your electricity bill for the sanctioned load and type of connection–domestic or commercial, single phase or three phase.
Then consult your electrician to evaluate your current power load to determine if an upgrade is required to support EV charging via a 3 kW or 7 kW fast charger without overloading the system.
The upgrade process takes time and additional expense so do factor that in.
Also, many housing societies and gated communities do not have the extra load to allow the installation of personal chargers, so you may have to depend on the community chargers installed within the premises, which are few and cost more to charge over the regular home chargers.
Before closing the buying decision, check with your electricity provider, RWA, housing society, builder and landlord that you can install the EV charger.
Also, carry a copy of the latest electricity bill to the showroom to help the sales executives guide you accordingly with the additional power and charger installation requirements.
2. Assess Your Parking Bay Size
Unlike traditional cars, EVs often come with charging setups that require additional space.
At the time of the test drive, park the vehicle in your regular parking spot to check and confirm that the bay is spacious enough to accommodate not just the car but also the charger, and extra space for attaching the charging gun.
For shared or rented parking spaces, check with your housing society or landlord about EV charger installation policies.
Many societies have strict norms on installing chargers and do not allow installations in basements because of fire safety considerations so do check before committing.
3. Plan the Placement of the Home Charger
Identify a suitable location for your home charging station. Ideally, it should be in your parking bay, near your meter and easily accessible 24/7.
Safety is paramount, so choose a spot where the charger and cables won’t pose any risk to pedestrians or vehicles.
Proper ventilation is also crucial if you install the charger in an enclosed space like a garage or a basement parking.
4. Measure the Wire Length from the Meter to the Parking Bay
The distance between your electric meter and the parking bay can significantly impact installation costs and most importantly, if the installation is feasible.
Longer distances may require additional wiring and conduit work, increasing expenses.
Measure the wire length to plan accordingly and consult a professional installer for an accurate estimate and feasibility.
5. Research Public Chargers Nearby
While home charging is the most economical, recommended and convenient, having access to public chargers is equally essential for emergencies and long journeys.
Use apps or maps provided by manufacturers and charging networks to locate chargers in your vicinity for emergency use.
Pay attention to the type of chargers available (slow/fast), pricing, availability at odd hours and compatibility with your EV model.
Also, check if your housing society or complex has community chargers installed and confirm the charges and availability.
6. Check the Nearest Service Centre
Electric cars have specific maintenance needs that can only be addressed by authorized service centres.
Verify the distance to your nearest service centre and ensure it is within a reasonable range. This will save you time and effort when you need repairs or servicing.
Bonus Tip: Understand Tariffs and Charging Costs
Electricity tariffs vary across states in India. Check the cost per unit of electricity in your region and calculate how it translates to your vehicle’s running cost.
Many EV manufacturers offer cost calculators to help buyers estimate expenses.
By checking off this list, you will be well-prepared to make an informed decision when purchasing an EV–and justify that stiff premium over an ICE vehicle.
Proper planning helps avoid post-purchase remorse and ensures a smoother transition to electric mobility. It also ensures that you enjoy the benefits of owning an eco-friendly vehicle without unnecessary hassles and last-mile surprises.
So, charge up and get ready to hit the road sustainably.
About the Author
Anirban is a journalist and editor tracking India’s EV ecosystem and its impact on the climate economy.
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