India’s Electric Mobility: Smaller Cities Embrace E2Ws
India’s electric two-wheeler (E2W) market continues to surge, with a remarkable 44% year-on-year growth in August 2024. This impressive performance far outpaces the overall automotive industry’s 7% rise, indicating a growing preference for electric vehicles, especially in smaller cities.
A recent report by CarDekho Group’s New Auto segment highlights the expanding reach of electric mobility across India. While Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities have traditionally dominated E2W searches, the report reveals a significant surge in demand from Tier 3 cities and smaller towns. Searches from these regions increased by 41% and 34% respectively, underscoring the broader acceptance of electric two-wheelers beyond metropolitan areas.
Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh Lead the Charge
Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh emerged as the top five states contributing to the highest number of E2W searches. These states represent key markets where the transition to electric two-wheelers is gaining momentum.
Mayank Jain, CEO of New Auto (CarDekho Group), emphasized the pivotal role of the E2W segment in India’s electric vehicle revolution. “The growth in both sales and consumer interest is a clear indicator of the segment’s potential,” Jain stated. He further highlighted the opportunity for Indian E2W manufacturers to tap into the global market, driven by affordability and sustainability factors.
OEMs Witness Rising Sales
The report also noted a positive trend among Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Five of the top six OEMs experienced retail growth in August 2024 compared to the previous year. This aligns with the broader trend of increasing consumer interest in electric two-wheelers, as manufacturers and retailers adapt to the evolving market demands.