Choosing an electric vehicle (EV) in India is no longer just about being "eco-friendly"—it’s about performance, massive fuel savings, and embracing a smoother way to drive. As 2026 begins, the Indian auto market has come out with some new options in the Indian car EV setup.
If you are looking to make the switch, here are the top 5 EV cars to buy in India right now, ranging from budget-friendly city cars to premium long-range SUVs.
1. Tata Nexon.ev
The Nexon. EV remains the undisputed king of the Indian electric road. What makes it a top pick is how well it handles Indian conditions. With its "Acti.ev" platform, the 2026 model offers a refined cabin and a real-world range that comfortably hits the 350–400 km mark on a single charge. It’s packed with tech like V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), which lets you power appliances from your car. For a family looking for safety (5-star rating) and reliability, this is the safest bet.
Here are the key factors to look out for
- Price Range: ₹14.49 Lakh – ₹19.49 Lakh
- Major Variants: Creative, Fearless, Empowered, and Empowered +
- Battery Options: Available in Medium Range (MR) with a 30kWh battery and Long Range (LR) with a 45kWh battery. The Fearless variant is the most popular for balancing cost and features.
2. MG Windsor EV
If you prioritize cabin space and a plush ride, the MG Windsor is a game-changer. It blurs the line between an SUV and a luxury lounge. The "Aeroglide" design provides massive legroom, and the rear seats recline like a business-class airplane seat. MG’s unique "Battery-as-a-Service" (BaaS) model also makes the initial buying price much lower, as you only pay for the battery based on your usage. It’s the perfect choice for city dwellers who want a premium feel without the premium price tag.
- Price Range: ₹13.50 Lakh – ₹15.50 Lakh (Under the BaaS Model)
- Major Variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence
- Battery options- MG uses the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model here. This means the car's sticker price is lower, but you pay a rental fee of roughly ₹3.5 per km for the battery. The Essence trim is the one with the famous reclining rear seats.
3. Tata Punch.ev
For those who find the Nexon a bit too large for tight city traffic, the Punch.ev is the ideal solution. It’s compact, easy to park, and has a surprisingly high ground clearance, making it "pothole-proof." Despite its smaller size, it doesn't compromise on features, offering ventilated seats and a 360-degree camera. It’s arguably the best "first EV" for a small family or a daily office commuter.
- Price Range: ₹10.99 Lakh – ₹15.49 Lakh
- Major Variants: Smart, Adventure, Empowered, and Empowered +
- Battery Options: Comes in 25kWh (Standard) and 35kWh (Long Range). For city use, the Adventure variant offers the best value for money, while Empowered + adds the 360-degree camera.
4. Hyundai Creta EV
The wait for the electric version of India’s favourite SUV is over. The Creta EV takes everything people love about the standard Creta—the looks, the features, and the brand trust—and adds a silent, powerful electric motor. With Hyundai’s vast service network and a battery range designed to compete with global standards, it is the top choice for those who want a "no-nonsense" EV that feels familiar yet futuristic.
- Price Range: ₹18.99 Lakh – ₹24.50 Lakh (Estimated)
- Major Variants: E, S, SX, and SX(O)
- Battery Details: It typically uses a 45kWh to 50kWh battery pack to ensure it competes with the Nexon.ev LR.
5. Mahindra XEV 9e
If you want a car that looks like it travelled back in time from the year 2050, the Mahindra XEV 9e is for you. Built on the new INGLO platform, this vehicle prioritises high performance and features a "triple-screen" dashboard. It offers one of the largest battery packs in the segment, pushing the range beyond 500 km. It’s big, bold, and designed for those who want to make a statement on the road.
- Price Range: ₹22.90 Lakh – ₹28.50 Lakh
- Major Variants: Select, Premium, and Luxury
- Battery Options: Features a massive 79kWh battery in its top-tier trim. The Luxury variant includes the triple-screen, a cinematic look dashboard, and a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Conclusion
The "best" EV depends on your lifestyle. If you're on a budget, start with the Punch.ev. If you want luxury and space, the Windsor EV is unmatched. For those who travel between cities frequently, the Creta EV or XEV 9e provide the long-range peace of mind you need. Switching to electric is no longer a compromise—it’s an upgrade.