There are 'hidden costs of EVs that dealers don't tell': Car owner reveals extra expenses every buyer should know

The allure of electric vehicles (EVs) often rests on the promise of long-term savings. However, as per EV car owners, there are hidden expenses that can make the cost of owning an EV much higher than expected. While the initial price tag may seem competitive, the car owner has claimed that the hidden expenses related to EV ownership makes it expensive before any savings are realised.

Hidden Expenses Behind EV Ownership

Angel investor Udit Goenka recently shared his insights on the unexpected costs associated with owning an electric vehicle. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Goenka emphasized that car buyers don’t always anticipate the financial burdens involved with installation and infrastructure.

"You practically start recouping your money only after you have driven at least 6,000 KM due to these unwanted hidden expenses," Goenka explained.


The costs he highlighted include:

INR 10,000 for expediting the application

INR 27,000 for the installation of an EV meter

INR 5,000–30,000 for charger installation, with charges often reaching INR 500 per meter beyond 10 meters.

“These are the hidden costs of EV installation that car dealers don't tell you about when you buy a car,” Goenka added.

Reacting to his post, one user shared a similar analysis for two-wheelers. " I did a EV scooty analysis. An Activa at Rs 1L will break even after 5 years if driven 500km per month. EV scooty is not worth it if you are thinking of saving money. Only upside is you can preach green environment but the electricity is probably thermal so..."

EV Infrastructure Challenges

Beyond installation costs, India's infrastructure is another major challenge for EV owners. The country's sparse charging stations, inconsistent power supply, and lack of standardisation in charging technologies continue to hinder widespread EV adoption. Government incentives have been introduced to drive growth, but the lack of reliable public charging stations remains a significant barrier to potential buyers.

In rural and semi-urban areas, the situation is even more challenging. Erratic electricity grids and uneven infrastructure rollout make EV ownership difficult, and without consistent technical standards, collaboration between states and private players has been slow.

Ongoing Ownership Costs

The costs associated with EVs don’t stop after installation. Charging expenses vary depending on local utility rates and time-of-use plans, making it difficult for owners to predict their monthly costs.

In summary, while EVs offer long-term savings, the hidden costs and challenges of ownership—such as installation fees, infrastructure limitations, and ongoing maintenance—can create financial hurdles for many owners in India. As the country continues to push for greater EV adoption, addressing these issues will be crucial for ensuring the future success of electric vehicles.