India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is booming, driven by falling battery costs, expanding charging infrastructure, and strong government incentives under the FAME II scheme. With rising fuel prices and increasing environmental awareness, more buyers are looking at affordable EVs that don’t compromise on performance or range. The year 2026 brings an exciting lineup of electric cars priced under Rs. 10 lakh, making eco-friendly mobility accessible to a wider audience.
This guide helps you navigate the best options available today, focusing on real-world performance, charging convenience, and value for money. Whether you’re a city commuter, a highway regular, or a family-oriented driver, there’s an EV here that fits your needs and budget.
| Model | Price (from) | Range | Battery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Tiago EV XT | Rs. 5,99,000 | 261 km | 19.2 kWh | City commutes |
| Mahindra Behroop | Rs. 7,90,000 | 201 km | 13.9 kWh | Urban utility |
| Hyundai Exter EV | Rs. 10,00,000 | 190 km | 14.2 kWh | Style seekers |
| Tata Punch EV | Rs. 9,99,000 | 315 km | 27.2 kWh | Family fun |
| Maruti e-Surya | Rs. 8,50,000 | 150 km | 11.2 kWh | Budget first-time buyers |
The Tata Tiago EV remains a benchmark in the entry-level EV segment. Its compact size makes it ideal for tight urban streets, while the 261 km range ensures you can comfortably handle daily commutes without worrying about charging stops. The car features a comfortable cabin with essential connectivity options and a robust suspension setup that handles India’s varied road conditions well.
With a fast-charging capability of 0–80% in just 54 minutes, the Tiago EV is perfect for drivers who need flexibility. Its low running cost — approximately Rs. 0.50/km — makes it a financially sensible choice over the long term. The car is eligible for additional FAME II subsidies, further reducing the effective price.
Mahindra’s Behroop is an innovative entry in the affordable EV space, offering a practical and versatile design. The car’s modular battery system allows users to swap out battery packs at supported charging stations, reducing downtime and offering a fresh approach to EV ownership in India.
With a focus on utility, the Behroop comes equipped with ample boot space and a robust build quality that can handle monsoon roads and rough patches. Its range of 201 km is sufficient for most urban and suburban routes, and home charging takes around 6–8 hours. The vehicle’s energy-efficient drivetrain ensures low running costs, making it a smart option for cost-conscious buyers.
The Hyundai Exter EV brings a dose of style and sophistication to the under-10-lakh EV segment. Its modern design, sharp looks, and well-appointed cabin make it stand out against more utilitarian competitors. Despite its premium feel, the Exter EV retains a competitive range of 190 km and a responsive electric motor that delivers instant torque.
The car features advanced safety features including dual airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control, making it a secure choice for families. With efficient energy consumption — around Rs. 0.52/km — and eligibility for government subsidies, the Exter EV offers strong value for buyers looking for a stylish yet practical EV.
The Tata Punch EV is a game-changer in the compact EV segment, offering a surprisingly spacious interior and a class-leading 315 km range. Built on Tata’s proven EV platform, it combines practicality with modern styling and a comfortable ride quality.
Equipped with advanced features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, smart connectivity, and multiple driving modes, the Punch EV is ideal for families or urban drivers who need both space and range. Its fast-charging capability allows an 80% charge in just 57 minutes, making long weekend trips more feasible. With a low per-kilometer cost of around Rs. 0.48/km, it’s also a financially smart choice.
The Maruti e-Surya brings the manufacturer’s strong reputation for reliability into the EV space. Designed for first-time EV buyers and budget-conscious users, the e-Surya offers a simple, no-frills approach with a focus on affordability and low maintenance.
With a range of 150 km, it’s best suited for city commuting and short trips. Charging takes around 7–9 hours via a standard home outlet, and fast-charging options are available at select locations. The car’s compact dimensions make it easy to park in crowded metro areas, while its lightweight construction ensures a smooth and quiet ride. Although its range is lower than competitors, the e-Surya’s strong resale value and Maruti’s widespread service network make it a safe bet for cautious buyers.
| Model | Price (from) | Range | Battery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Tiago EV XT | Rs. 5,99,000 | 261 km | 19.2 kWh | City commutes |
| Maruti e-Surya | Rs. 8,50,000 | 150 km | 11.2 kWh | Budget first-time buyers |
| Mahindra Behroop | Rs. 7,90,000 | 201 km | 13.9 kWh | Urban utility |
| Tata Punch EV | Rs. 9,99,000 | 315 km | 27.2 kWh | Family fun |
| Hyundai Exter EV | Rs. 10,00,000 | 190 km | 14.2 kWh | Style seekers |
A: The Tata Tiago EV XT variant starts at Rs. 5,99,000 for the base model.
A: Yes — with careful planning and access to DC fast-charging stations, a 200 km range is sufficient for most weekend trips. The Tata Punch EV offers 315 km for added flexibility.
A: Most models in this bracket qualify for FAME II incentives, which can reduce the effective price significantly. Always confirm with your dealer.
A: At home (Rs. 8–12/kWh), a full charge for the Tata Punch EV (27.2 kWh) costs around Rs. 218–330. Public fast-charging is more expensive at Rs. 15–25/kWh.
A: The Tata Punch EV leads with a class-best 315 km range, making it ideal for longer drives.