Two- and three-wheeler charging: an overlooked market

Public conversation about EV charging often focuses on cars. But in India, most electric vehicles on the road have two or three wheels. Their charging needs are different, and they are often under-served.

The size of the market

In FY 2025-26, India sold about 2.55 million electric vehicles. Electric two-wheelers made up about 1.47 million of them. Nearly half a million e-rickshaws were also sold, and electric models reached about a third of all passenger three-wheeler sales.

How their charging is different

Lower power: most two- and three-wheelers charge at much lower power than cars, often from low-voltage chargers or portable chargers.
Different connectors: many use their own or light-EV connectors rather than car standards.
Battery swapping: some fleets swap batteries instead of waiting to charge.
High daily use: delivery riders and auto drivers cover long distances every day and need reliable top-ups.

Where demand is strongest

Delivery and quick-commerce hubs, where riders gather between orders.
Auto and e-rickshaw stands, markets and transit points.
Apartments and hostels, where riders cannot charge in their parking.
Colleges and offices with many scooter commuters.

Policy support

The PM E-DRIVE scheme's public charging plans include around 48,400 chargers for two- and three-wheelers, the largest share of its charger targets.

Why it is a business opportunity

Low cost per point: chargers are cheaper to install than car fast chargers.
Small footprint: they fit in places where car charging is impractical.
Frequent use: commercial riders charge often, keeping utilization high.
Easy to add: shops, cafes and fuel stations can add a few points alongside existing business.

What to get right

Support the connectors and chargers common in your area.
Keep payment simple: QR code and UPI work well for riders on the move.
Provide shade and safe parking while vehicles charge.
Monitor chargers remotely so faults are fixed quickly.

EVee Buddy can plan two- and three-wheeler charging alongside car charging at the same site, managed on one platform.

Sources

Figures as reported in the sources above at the time of writing. Schemes and rules change, so confirm current terms with the relevant ministry, your state nodal agency or DISCOM before making decisions.