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With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EV), the biggest question is how much will it cost if the battery gets damaged? Will the bill really be as much as a new car? Many potential buyers step back due to this fear, but after understanding the actual figures and the policies of the brands, the picture becomes quite clear. The batteries of most electric cars in India come with a warranty of 8 years or 1.6 lakh kilometers (whichever is earlier).<\/p>\n
During this period, if the battery capacity goes below 70%, then most companies have a provision for free replacement or repair. Tata Motors is offering 15 years lifetime battery warranty (unlimited kilometres, for the first owner) on some premium models (like Nexon EV 45 kWh, Curvv EV, Harrier EV). Mahindra and other brands also offer a standard warranty of 8 years\/1.6 lakh km. The warranty of companies like MG, Hyundai and BYD is also around this.<\/p>\n
If no warranty, how much will it cost?<\/h2>\n
Cost of replacement outside warranty depends on model and battery size. The cost of 25-30 kWh battery in small cars (Tata Tiago EV, Punch EV, MG Comet) can range from \u20b9 3 lakh to \u20b9 5 lakh. Estimates for mid-size SUVs like Tata Nexon EV (30-45 kWh) range from \u20b93.5 lakh to \u20b96-7 lakh. Larger or premium models (MG ZS EV, BYD Atto 3 etc.) can go from \u20b95 lakh to \u20b99-12 lakh. The cost per kWh is currently around \u20b915,000-20,000. However, battery prices are falling rapidly globally.<\/p>\n
When does the battery go bad?<\/h3>\n
The reality is that the battery does not get completely damaged suddenly. Modern lithium-ion batteries can easily last for 8-12 years or 1.5-2 lakh km with proper usage (maintaining 30-80% charge, protection from direct sunlight, regular servicing). Real-world degradation ranges from 10-20%. In many cases, instead of replacing the entire battery, repairing a few cells is enough, which can cost \u20b9 50,000-1.5 lakh.<\/p>\n
changing technology<\/h3>\n
Companies like Tata, Mahindra are making battery packs modular, which will make repairs easier and cheaper in future. Taking a battery protection add-on in insurance can provide additional protection. In the long run, the petrol-diesel savings (up to \u20b950,000-1 lakh per year) and low maintenance (no breaks, oil changes etc) offset the battery costs.<\/p>\n
Summary:<\/strong> While buying a new EV, be sure to check the battery warranty details, service network and Battery Health Reporting System (BMS). With the right model and usage, the chances of getting a bill of lakhs are very less. The future of EVs is clear \u2013 battery technology is getting cheaper and better. Take decisions with information instead of fear.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n