The electric auto-rickshaw market in India is experiencing a remarkable surge, thanks to its affordability, ease of operation, and lower running costs. With fuel prices on the rise, many are turning to e-rickshaws as a practical alternative to traditional vehicles. This shift is not only helping reduce urban congestion but also offering a greener way to travel. 

If you’re considering joining this movement, you’re in luck—numerous budget-friendly e-rickshaws are available that provide excellent value. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 e-rickshaws to help you make an informed choice and enjoy cost-effective, eco-friendly transport.

Top 10 Budget-Friendly E-Rickshaws in India in 2024

In 2024, a range of budget-friendly e-rickshaws offers a practical solution for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying lower running costs. This blog presents a curated list of the top 10 e-rickshaws that balance affordability with performance. If you’re exploring eco-conscious transport choices, this guide is here to help you find the best value options in today’s market.

10. Saarthi DLX (₹90,000*)

The Saarthi DLX is a practical choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable electric rickshaw for passenger transport. Priced starting at ₹90,000 (ex-showroom), this model is well-suited for both urban and rural settings. Designed to comfortably accommodate up to five passengers, including the driver, the Saarthi DLX offers generous legroom and headroom. It features a 1 kW motor that delivers a top speed of 25 kmph, making it a solid option for last-mile travel. With a range of up to 120 km per charge and a battery that charges fully in 4-5 hours, the Saarthi DLX provides a good balance of efficiency and affordability.

Key Features:

• Powertrain: 1 kW motor with 1.34 hp and 50 Amp 24 tubes controller
• Range: Up to 120 km per charge
• Charging Time: 4-5 hours
• Top Speed: 25 kmph
• Dimensions: 2730 mm x 980 mm x 1725 mm (LxWxH)
• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers (including driver)
• Features: Cushioned seats, grab handles for safety, wide windshield for visibility, round halogen headlight

9. Star Electrika A1 (₹1.16 Lakh*)

The Star Electrika A1 is a standout option in the budget-friendly electric auto-rickshaw market. Priced between ₹1.16 lakh and ₹1.20 lakh, it offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability. This e-rickshaw is equipped with a 1200 W brushless DC motor, delivering a peak torque of 22 Nm, making it a reliable choice for everyday transport needs. With a gross vehicle weight of 754 kg and a payload capacity of 390 kg, the Star Electrika A1 is designed to handle typical load requirements efficiently.

Key Features:

• Motor: 1200 W brushless DC motor
• Torque: 22 Nm
• Front Suspension: Helical spring + dampener + hydraulic shock absorber
• Rear Suspension: Rigid axle with leaf spring
• Brakes: Drum brakes
• Top Speed: 25 kmph
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 754 kg
• Payload Capacity: 390 kg

With its cost-effective price and minimal maintenance needs, the Star Electrika A1 stands out as a solid option for those looking to invest in an electric three-wheeler without stretching their budget.

8. Atul Elite Plus (₹1.12 Lakh*)

The Atul Elite Plus is a practical choice for those seeking a budget-friendly electric rickshaw designed for efficient last-mile transport. With its affordable starting price of ₹1.12 lakh, the Elite Plus combines cost-effectiveness with essential features for urban mobility. It offers a reliable range of 80 km per charge, suitable for city and feeder routes, and a maximum speed of 25 kmph. Designed for comfort and durability, this e-rickshaw is ideal for carrying 3-4 passengers and comes with essential safety and performance features.

Key Features:

• Battery and Powertrain: 850 / 1000 W motor with a 48V DC 40A controller, using a 12V 100 AH lead-acid battery
• Range and Charging: 80 km range per charge, with a charging time of 8-10 hours
• Performance: Maximum speed of 25 kmph
• Payload and Dimensions: Gross vehicle weight of 699 kg, payload capacity of 400 kg; dimensions are 2800 mm (length) x 1100 mm (width) x 1800 mm (height)
• Comfort and Features: Telescopic front suspension, 3-meter turning circle diameter, interchangeable tyres, halogen headlamp, and steering lock for safety

7. E-Ashwa E Rickshaw (1.25 Lakh*)

The E-Ashwa E Rickshaw stands out as a practical and affordable choice for those in need of a reliable electric passenger carrier. Priced between ₹1,06,250 for the Standard variant and ₹1,12,750 for the Fully Loaded variant, this e-rickshaw is designed to meet the diverse needs of both rural and urban transport operators. Equipped with a high-power 900-1000 W motor and lithium batteries, it offers a top speed of 25 km/hr and a range that suits daily urban and rural travel needs. The E-Ashwa E Rickshaw features a sturdy build with a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates up to five passengers.

Key Features:

• Powertrain: 900-1000 W motor, 24 tubes controller
• Top Speed: 25 km/hr
• Charging Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Dimensions: 2790 mm x 980 mm x 1870 mm
• Seating Capacity: 5 (4 passengers + 1 driver)
• Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes (front and rear)
• Comfort Features: Cushioned seats, 43 mm hydraulic spring shockers (front and rear)
• Additional Features: PU Paint, unbreakable low-weight roof, FM radio, MP3 system with dual speakers, passenger handle, tool kit, central locking system, front screen with motorized wiper

6. Kinetic Super DX (₹1.35 Lakh*)

The Kinetic Super DX is a reliable choice for those seeking an affordable and practical electric passenger carrier. Priced at ₹1.35 lakh (ex-showroom), this e-rickshaw is designed to enhance last-mile connectivity in urban settings. It features a 130 Ah lead-acid battery that provides a range of approximately 110 km per charge and takes about 8 hours to fully recharge. The vehicle is powered by a 1.2 kW BLDC motor, and its design includes a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom.

Key Features:

• Battery: 130 Ah lead-acid battery
• Range: Up to 110 km per charge
• Charging Time: Approximately 8 hours
• Motor: 1.2 kW BLDC motor
• Controller: 48-volt
• Gearbox: 1-speed
• Suspension: Front telescopic with rear leaf springs and hydraulic dampers
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 779 kg
• Payload Capacity: 380 kg
• Dimensions: 2781 mm length, 995 mm width, 1799 mm height

The Kinetic Super DX also offers practical features such as anti-skid flooring, an informative instrument cluster, a state-of-charge meter, a USB charging port, a reserve charge mode, and an inbuilt music system. With its thoughtful design and user-friendly features, the Super DX is a solid contender among budget-friendly e-rickshaws.

5. Kinetic Safar Smart (₹1.45 Lakh*)

The Kinetic Safar Smart is an appealing option for those in search of a reliable and cost-effective electric rickshaw. Designed for both urban and rural use, it offers ample seating for up to 4 passengers and an optional capacity of 6. The Safar Smart features a 1.2 kW BLDC motor paired with a 4 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a range of up to 100 km on a single charge. With its attractive design, strong warranty, and user-friendly features, it stands out among budget-friendly e-rickshaws.

Key Features:

• Battery and Motor: 1.2 kW BLDC motor, 4 kWh lithium-ion battery (optional 140Ah lead-acid battery)
• Range and Charging: Up to 100 km range per charge, fully charges in 2 hours
• Performance: Maximum GVW of 679 kg, 220 mm ground clearance, 10.3-degree gradability
• Comfort: Spacious cabin with well-cushioned seats for up to 6 passengers, anti-skid flooring
• Features: Three riding modes (high, medium, low), gradient gear for inclines, USB charging port, state of charge (SOC) meter, reserve charge mode switch, provision for speakers
• Brakes: 130mm drum brakes at the front, 160mm drum brakes at the rear

4. YC Electric Yatri Super (₹1.69 Lakh*)

The YC Electric Yatri Super is an excellent option for businesses seeking a cost-effective and efficient electric passenger transporter. Priced at ₹1.69 lakh (ex-showroom), this e-rickshaw offers a blend of simplicity and practicality, making it a smart choice for last-mile connectivity in urban areas. It is powered by a 1.5 kW BLDC motor and a well-designed battery pack, which provides a driving range of 75-90 km on a single charge and a top speed of 25 kmph. The Yatri Super is designed to enhance operational efficiency with its spacious cabin and user-friendly features.

Key Features:

• Motor: 1.5 kW BLDC electric motor
• Range: 75-90 km per charge
• Top Speed: 25 kmph
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 693 kg
• Dimensions: 2780 mm x 1755 mm x 995 mm (LxWxH)
• Seating Capacity: 4 passengers
• Tyre Options: Brands like TVS, Ceat, Ralson, Ralco, and Rider
• Comfort Features: The cushioned seat, side awnings, music system with two speakers, LED cabin lamp
• Safety Features: Fire extinguisher
• Visibility: Wide windshield

3. Mahindra e-Alfa Super (₹1.82 Lakh*)

The Mahindra e-Alfa Super stands out as an efficient and budget-friendly choice for urban and semi-urban transport. With a starting price of ₹1.82 lakh (ex-showroom), this electric three-wheeler is designed to offer both cost savings and reliable performance. It features a 1.64 kW electric motor that provides 22 Nm of torque, ensuring quick trips and efficient operations. The e-Alfa Super delivers a driving range of up to 95 km per charge, making it a practical option for continuous use. Its modern dashboard, large 140 Ah battery pack, and comfortable features make it a solid choice for those looking to invest in an eco-friendly and economical e-rickshaw.

Key Features:

• Powertrain: 1.64 kW electric motor with 22 Nm of torque
• Range: Up to 95 km per full charge
• Speed: Top speed of 25 kmph
• Battery: 140 Ah battery pack
• Comfort and Features: Closed body with canopy, digital instrument cluster, cushioned seats
• Savings: Low operational costs, no fuel charges
• Warranty: 1 year on vehicle, 1.5 years on battery; ₹10 lakh accidental insurance cover

2. Piaggio Ape E City (₹1.95 – ₹3.50 Lakh*)

The Piaggio Ape E City is a standout option for those seeking an efficient and eco-friendly electric three-wheeler. Designed for commercial use, this e-rickshaw features a lithium-ion battery that ensures low maintenance and high performance. Available in both fixed and swappable battery configurations, the Ape E City delivers excellent range and cost-efficiency, making it a solid choice for fleet operators looking to enhance their business profitability. With features aimed at comfort and practicality, this vehicle is perfect for both urban and semi-urban environments.

Key Features:

• Battery Options: 51.2 V fixed battery or 48 V swappable battery
• Battery Capacities: 7.5 kWh (fixed) and 4.5 kWh (swappable)
• Power Output: 7.29 hp
• Torque: 29 Nm
• Range: 110 km (fixed battery) and 68 km per swap (swappable battery)
• Dimensions: 2700 mm length x 1370 mm width x 1725 mm height
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 689 kg (swappable) and 713 kg (fixed)
• Seating Capacity: Up to four occupants
• Features: Multiple drive modes, telematics, dual-tone cushioned seats, passenger doors, digital instrument cluster, hill-hold assist

1. Mahindra Treo Yaari (₹1.96 – ₹2.04 Lakh*)

The Mahindra Treo Yaari stands out in the market of electric rickshaws with its blend of efficiency and comfort. Designed to optimize both performance and savings, it features an advanced Lithium Ion battery and electric motor that promise significant cost reductions for operators. The Treo Yaari’s design includes a smooth, clutch-free drive system that minimizes noise and vibrations, ensuring a pleasant ride. With its impressive safety features and thoughtful details, it offers excellent value for money.

Key Features:

• Battery and Motor: Lithium-ion 48V battery pack with 3.69 kWh capacity, delivering 2.61hp and 22 Nm of torque.
• Range and Speed: Certified range of 125 km per charge, typical range of 85km, and top speed of 24.5 km/h.
• Charging Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes for a full charge.
• Safety: IP67-rated motor, rear crash guard.
• Comfort: Ergonomic driver’s seat, large windshield, optional hard-top roof, dual headlamps.
• Convenience: Digital instrument cluster, 12V USB charging port, mobile holder, three driving modes (FNR), and a lockable glove box.

Starting at Rs. 1.96 lakh, the Mahindra Treo Yaari is an attractive option among the top 10 e-rickshaws, offering a blend of affordability, performance, and features.

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Final Review and Conclusion

In summary, selecting a budget-friendly e-rickshaw can significantly enhance both affordability and sustainability in urban transport. The models listed in this guide offer a range of features that cater to various needs, from daily commutes to commercial operations. Each e-rickshaw brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the impressive range of the Mahindra Treo Yaari or the cost-efficiency of the Atul Elite Plus. 

Choosing the right e-rickshaw involves balancing your budget with the performance and features that suit your requirements. With options like the Kinetic Safar Smart and the Piaggio Ape E City, you’re sure to find a model that fits your needs while contributing to a greener future. Whether you’re looking to cut down on fuel costs or reduce your carbon footprint, these top 10 budget-friendly e-rickshaws represent some of the best value options available in India today.

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