Lack of charging infra deterring EV buyers

New Delhi: Inspite of growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country, an overwhelming section of people in India are unsure for opting for EVs due to deterrent factors such as exuberant price range and lack of charging points, a survey has observed.

The survey published by CarWale, an online automobile platform, revealed that people are keen on buying electric vehicles online. They cited better deals, convenience, transparent purchasing process and trust in vehicle manufacturers, as the reasons for preferring online purchases.

The survey, called CarWale, Indian Automotive Consumer Canvas 2021 and conducted over a period of three weeks, received a total of 202,334 responses from metro and non-metro cities. It was released on Wednesday.

As per the survey, 35 per cent of the respondents expressed a willingness to get an EV as their next car whereas 50 per cent cited lack of charging infrastructure and range anxiety as reasons for not buying EVs. As many as 77 per cent of the total respondents postponed their decision to purchase a vehicle due to ongoing pandemic and 18 per cent showed uninhibited disposition to explore leasing/pre-owned/subscription models.

The survey also indicated rising preference of purchasing vehicles and EVs online with 60 per cent respondents showed a preference to buy vehicles online, citing better deals, convenience, transparent purchasing process and trust in vehicle manufacturers. Those not in favour of buying a vehicle online gave inability to touch and feel the vehicle as the main reason.

Banwari Lal Sharma, CEO, CarWale and Bike Wale, said: "The survey indicates a positive sentiment. While the impact on the supply chain and OEMs was unexpectedly severe, fortunately, we are now seeing a changing pattern. We have demand on our side and the rest can be taken care of."

He further said, "One of the most heartening aspects of the survey is the revelation that 60 per cent of the respondents are willing to go for online purchases. Today, Indians are predominantly online savvy, utilising the internet for more than email or web browsing. So, it's not surprising when 60 per cent of them showed willingness to buy online. For most first-time car or bike buyers, the process can be quite cumbersome. Hence, companies across the board are making vehicle buying process digital and hence, more convenient."