The real numbers
We calculated running costs for a 50 km/day commuter in Mumbai over 5 years, comparing a petrol scooter (Honda Activa 6G at ₹78,000) versus an electric scooter (Ola S1 Air at ₹99,999 after subsidy).
Fuel/energy costs
The Honda Activa returns approximately 50 km/litre in city conditions. At ₹105/litre, that's ₹2.10 per km, or ₹3,150/month for a 50 km/day commuter. The Ola S1 Air consumes approximately 30 Wh/km, costing about ₹0.25/km (at ₹8/unit home charging) — ₹375/month. Monthly saving: ₹2,775.
Maintenance
Petrol scooters require oil changes every 3,000 km, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, and chain maintenance. Annual maintenance cost: ₹6,000–9,000. EV scooters require minimal maintenance — tyre pressure, brake inspection, and a software check. Annual cost: ₹1,200–2,000.
5-year total cost of ownership
EV scooter total (purchase + running): ₹2,85,000. Petrol scooter total: ₹3,44,000. EV saves ₹59,000 over 5 years — equivalent to recovering the price difference and more.