Understanding Electric Cycle Battery Capacity
Most electric cycles have 30-50 Ah batteries. A 40 Ah battery at 24-48V requires 0.96-1.92 kWh of energy for a full charge.
Electricity Cost Calculation
Based on Average India Rates
Using India's average commercial electricity rate of ₹5-7 per kWh, a full charge costs ₹5-13. For daily commuting requiring one charge, your daily electricity cost is ₹5-13.
Regional Variations
Delhi (₹3-4/kWh): Charging costs ₹3-8 daily. Maharashtra (₹6-7/kWh): Approximately ₹6-13 daily. Tamil Nadu (₹4-5/kWh): Around ₹4-10 daily.
Fuel vs. Electricity Cost Comparison
Daily Costs
Petrol Scooter (20 km): At ₹100-110/liter with 40 km/liter efficiency = ₹50-55 daily.
Electric Cycle: ₹5-13 daily for similar distance.
Daily Savings: ₹40-50
Annual Comparison
Petrol yearly cost: ₹18,000-20,000. Electric yearly cost: ₹1,800-4,700. Annual savings: ₹13,000-18,000.
Other Charging Options and Savings
Workplace Charging
Many workplaces provide free charging. If available, your daily electricity cost drops to zero.
Solar Charging
Home solar systems (increasingly affordable) can charge electric bikes at ₹0-2 per day, maximizing savings.
Efficiency Advantages
Electric motors are 85-90% efficient, while petrol engines are only 20-30% efficient. This efficiency compounds your savings over time.
Conclusion
Charging an electric cycle costs 80-90% less than refueling a petrol vehicle. Over the bike's 5-10 year lifespan, that's ₹65,000-180,000 in savings just on fuel costs.
