Cost of Converting Petrol Car to Electric in India

With fuel prices consistently rising and environmental concerns growing, many car owners in India are exploring ways to switch to electric mobility. While buying a brand-new electric car is an option, it often comes with a high upfront cost. As an alternative, converting an existing petrol car into an electric vehicle (EV) is gaining attention.

This guide explains the costs involved in such a conversion in India, factors that influence the pricing, and important points to consider before deciding to convert your car.

Why consider converting a petrol car to electric?

Converting your petrol car to electric means replacing the internal combustion engine and fuel system with an electric motor and a battery pack. This transformation offers several advantages:

• Lower running costs: Electricity costs are significantly less than petrol, reducing your per-kilometer expenses.
• Reduced maintenance: Electric drivetrains have fewer moving parts, leading to fewer breakdowns and lower servicing needs.
• Environmental benefits: Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing your carbon footprint.
• Long-term savings: Although initial conversion costs can be high, long-term fuel and maintenance savings help recover the investment over time.

However, it’s essential to understand the economics and technical challenges of such conversions, especially in the Indian context.

How much does it cost to convert a petrol car to electric in India?

The cost of converting a petrol car to electric in India typically ranges from ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh, depending on several factors such as the size of the vehicle, type of battery used, motor capacity, and the level of features integrated (like regenerative braking, advanced battery management systems, or fast charging).

Below is a breakdown of typical costs involved:

1. Electric motor and controller

This replaces the petrol engine and is the core of your new EV. The motor and controller together can cost between ₹50,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, based on power output and quality.

2. Battery pack

The battery is the most expensive component.

• A standard lithium-ion battery pack providing a modest range (80-120 km) might cost ₹2 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh.
• Higher-capacity batteries offering more range (150 km or above) can push this up to ₹4 lakh or more.

3. Conversion kit and additional electronics

Includes wiring, converters, battery management systems (BMS), dashboard indicators, and safety cut-offs. Typically costs around ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.

4. Labor, fabrication, and fitting

Specialists need to remove the petrol drivetrain, install the electric systems, and integrate all mechanical and electrical parts. Labor charges can range from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh, depending on workshop reputation and complexity.

Approximate total cost:

Putting it all together, a typical petrol-to-electric conversion in India can cost roughly ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh for small to mid-sized cars. Costs may rise for larger vehicles or if premium components are chosen.

Factors influencing conversion cost

Several factors determine the final cost of converting a petrol car to electric in India:

• Type and capacity of the battery: Larger batteries mean longer range but significantly higher costs.
• Motor power: A higher-rated motor provides better acceleration and load capacity, but also adds to expenses.
• Make and model of the car: Some cars are easier to convert due to simpler mechanical layouts, which reduces labor and custom fabrication costs.
• Certification and approvals: For road-legal use, the converted car must pass fitness and safety checks by authorities, which could involve additional expenses.
• Quality of components: Using imported or advanced battery management systems, regenerative braking kits, and better controllers increases upfront costs but often ensures better reliability and safety.

Legal and practical considerations in India

While converting a petrol car to electric is technically possible, the regulatory environment in India is still evolving. According to current rules, the conversion must be performed using approved retrofitting kits that comply with safety and homologation norms set by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

Owners should:

• Ensure conversion is done by certified retrofitters who can provide the necessary compliance documents.
• Get the Registration Certificate (RC) updated to reflect the change in fuel type from petrol to electric.
• Understand warranty implications, as converting the vehicle voids any existing manufacturer warranties.

Is conversion worth it compared to buying a new EV?

While the idea of converting an old petrol car to electric is attractive, it makes financial sense mostly if:

• Your existing car is in good structural condition, with a strong chassis and suspension.
• You plan to keep the car long enough to recover the conversion investment through lower running costs.
• You primarily drive within city limits where a modest electric range is sufficient.

For buyers looking for advanced features, factory-built safety systems, and long warranties, investing directly in a new electric car might still be the better long-term choice.

Conclusion

Converting a petrol car to electric in India can cost anywhere between ₹4 lakh and ₹6 lakh, depending on the battery, motor, and quality of installation. While the process involves a significant upfront investment, it offers long-term savings, environmental benefits, and a unique opportunity to extend the life of your existing vehicle.

For anyone seriously considering this option, it is wise to consult with certified retrofitters, compare kit specifications, and ensure full legal compliance. As the electric mobility ecosystem grows in India, such conversions may become even more accessible and cost-effective in the years to come.

FAQs on converting petrol car to electric in India

1. How long does it take to convert a petrol car to electric?
A typical conversion takes about 30 to 45 days, depending on the workshop’s workload and the complexity of the vehicle.

2. Can any petrol car be converted to electric in India?
In principle, yes, but it is more practical for smaller cars. Heavy SUVs and luxury cars are more complex and expensive to convert.

3. What is the typical driving range after conversion?
Most conversions offer a driving range of 80 to 120 km per charge, depending on the battery size installed.

4. Will I still need to pay road tax after conversion?
Converted EVs often enjoy reduced road tax rates in many states, but you still need to complete the formalities to update your registration.

5. Is government subsidy available for converting petrol cars to electric?
Currently, most government EV incentives in India are targeted at new EV purchases, not retrofits. This may change in the future.

6. What happens to the old petrol engine after conversion?
Typically, it is removed and either sold off or scrapped. Many workshops help you handle this process as part of the conversion package.