E Rickshaw Guide 2025 Top Benefits and Buying Tips for India

E Rickshaw in India: Updated Guide, 2025 Trends, Data & Buying Tips

E rickshaw, or electric rickshaw, is a battery-powered three wheeler transforming last-mile transport in India. In 2025, over 2.5 million e rickshaws are running on Indian roads, providing affordable and green mobility for millions, especially in cities and small towns (Source: Vahan Dashboard, MoRTH, 2024). Whether you want to understand the market, compare options, or plan to buy one, this guide covers all you need—trends, statistics, benefits, and practical steps for Indian buyers.

What Is an E Rickshaw and How Does It Work?

An e rickshaw is a small, three wheeled vehicle powered by an electric motor and battery. Unlike traditional auto rickshaws that use petrol or diesel, e rickshaws use rechargeable batteries (often lead acid or lithium-ion) to run. They are mostly used for short distance passenger and goods transport.

Key features:

• Typical speed: 25–30 km/h
• Range per charge: 80–120 km
• Seating: 4 passengers + driver

E rickshaws are popular because they are quiet, do not pollute the air, and are cheaper to run than fuel vehicles.

Why Are E Rickshaws Important in India in 2025?

E rickshaws matter a lot in India for three big reasons:

1. Clean Transport: They help reduce air pollution. In cities like Delhi, e rickshaws have cut carbon emissions by up to 60 percent compared to traditional autos (NITI Aayog, 2024).
2. Affordable Mobility: Average daily running cost is as low as Rs 50, compared to Rs 150 for petrol autos (TERI, 2023).
3. Jobs: Over 1 million drivers earn their livelihood from e rickshaws (FADA Report, 2024).

What Are the Latest E Rickshaw Trends and Statistics in India?

E Rickshaw Adoption Rates (2020–2025)

*Source: Vahan Dashboard, MoRTH (2024), FADA (2024)

Popular States: Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam

Growth Drivers in 2025:

• Central and state subsidies (up to Rs 50,000 off per unit)
• Cheaper lithium-ion batteries
• UPI payment integration for easy fares

Which Are the Top E Rickshaw Models and Price Ranges?

The Indian market offers many e rickshaw models from local and national brands. Prices vary by battery, range, and features.

Leading E Rickshaw Models and Prices (2025)

*Source: AutoCar Pro India (2025), company websites

Tip: Always check for FAME II subsidy and state-level schemes before buying.

How Does Owning an E Rickshaw Compare to Traditional Autos?

E rickshaws offer several advantages over petrol or diesel auto rickshaws:

Pros

• Lower running cost (Rs 0.50 per km vs Rs 2.50 for petrol autos)
• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Less noise
• Lower maintenance

Cons

• Limited range (need to charge every day)
• Slower speed
• Battery replacement cost (Rs 20,000–Rs 60,000 every 2–3 years)

How Do I Buy or Register an E Rickshaw in India?

Buying an e rickshaw in India is simple if you follow these steps:

1. Research models and prices (see above table)
2. Check subsidy eligibility (visit https://fame2.heavyindustry.gov.in/)
3. Test drive different models
4. Choose a registered dealer
5. Apply for loan/finance (many NBFCs offer loans)
6. Complete RTO registration (visit https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in/)
7. Get commercial insurance

Tip: Always check the authenticity of the dealer and vehicle documents.

What Is the Government Policy for E Rickshaws in 2025?

The Indian government supports e rickshaw growth through:

• FAME II scheme (subsidy on new vehicles)
• GST at only 5 percent (lower than petrol autos)
• State-specific schemes (Delhi, UP, Assam offer extra incentives)
• Easier bank loans via Stand Up India and Mudra Yojana

In 2024, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways simplified registration rules and allowed e rickshaws on most city roads (MoRTH Notification No. GSR 709(E)).

Case Study: E Rickshaws Transforming Small Towns

In a district of Uttar Pradesh, the local panchayat supported e rickshaw drivers with low-interest loans and set up public charging stations at bus stops. Within a year, the number of e rickshaws grew from just 20 to over 300. This shift reduced daily travel costs for villagers by about 30 percent and improved air quality (Swachh Bharat Mission Report, 2024).

Future Outlook: What’s Next for E Rickshaws in India?

By 2030, experts expect more than 4 million e rickshaws on Indian roads (Statista Mobility Report, 2024). Improvements in battery technology and more charging points will make them even more popular.

Upcoming trends:

• Swappable battery stations
• More app-based e rickshaw aggregators
• Higher adoption in Tier II and Tier III towns

Quick Recap

• Over 2.5 million e rickshaws on Indian roads in 2025
• Running cost is just Rs 0.50 per km
• FAME II subsidy reduces upfront cost by up to Rs 50,000
• Top models: Mahindra Treo, Kinetic Safar, YC Electric Yatri
• States like UP, Delhi lead adoption
• Government offers lower GST and easy loans

People Also Ask

1. What is the average price of an e rickshaw in India?
Most new e rickshaws cost between Rs 1,20,000 and Rs 3,00,000 depending on brand and battery.

2. How long does an e rickshaw battery last?
Lead acid batteries last about 12–18 months; lithium-ion batteries can last up to 4 years with proper care.

3. Do e rickshaws need a license and registration?
Yes, commercial license and RTO registration are mandatory for e rickshaws.

4. Can I get a loan for buying an e rickshaw?
Yes, many banks and NBFCs provide loans; check Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and Stand Up India schemes.

5. What is the range of a typical e rickshaw?
Most models offer a range of 80–130 km per full charge.

6. Where can I find subsidy information for e rickshaws?
Check the official FAME II portal: https://fame2.heavyindustry.gov.in/

Ready to join the green mobility revolution? Compare top e rickshaw models, check subsidy eligibility on the official FAME II portal, and visit your nearest dealer for a test drive today! For more details on registration or loans, visit the Vahan portal or your local RTO office.