Pune: Electric vehicle registrations under the Pune RTO increased by over 4% in 2025 compared to 2024 after the low GST of 5% was retained in last year’s tax overhaul.There was a significant spike in EV cars’ registration in Pune, while the number of EV two-wheelers dipped. The Pune RTO recorded registrations of 37,470 EVs in 2025 against 35,995 EVs in 2024. Two-wheeler registrations stood at 28,823 last year against 31,068 in 2024 — a dip of over 7.2%. Four-wheeler registrations spiked, with 7,498 vehicles registered last year against 4,935 in 2024 — an increase of 87%.Rejeev YSR, an EV expert and CEO of Telangana-based ThunderPlus, told TOI that the trend reflected a deeper structural shift rather than short-term incentives. “Total cost of ownership is becoming better understood. Lower running and maintenance costs now outweigh the initial price barrier, especially for high-usage segments like cars, taxis, and commercial fleets. Consumer confidence also improved as EV technology matured — better range, improved battery warranties, and growing resale confidence reduce perceived risk,” he said. Urban users respond to fuel price volatility and environmental awareness, making EVs a rational choice rather than an aspirational one, Rejeev added. “Finally, while charging infrastructure may appear limited, it is becoming denser and smarter in key urban corridors. Early adopters prove viability, encouraging the next wave of buyers.”Amar J Sheth, the secretary of FADA (Federation of Automobiles Dealers Associations) said, “The rise in registrations in Pune shows that people buying are those who now see value in EV. The products are now becoming more stable and technically sound.” Retailers said one of the reasons behind low registration of EV two-wheelers was servicing issues. “People still have problems with some brands and their maintenance systems. There was a major issue with one brand earlier, and people had to wait months just to get their vehicle serviced. This dampened confidence, and that affected registrations. There were also frequent incidents of two-wheelers catching fire suddenly. That is not the case with cars. Many automobile companies launched EV hatchbacks that are affordable for a middle-class family,” the manager of an EV showroom in Camp told TOI, requesting anonymity. “The GST on EVs was not touched, and that also made a difference.”Rohan Singh (name changed on request), who owns a two-wheeler of a popular brand, said, “Two months back, I registered a complaint with the company after the front suspension of my two-wheeler failed. I am still waiting without any response. Such incidents dampen the spirit of buyers,” he said.Rajeev added that the divergence between two-wheeler and car EV registrations in Pune pointed to a market maturation effect rather than a slowdown in EV adoption.“Electric two-wheelers were the first category to see mass adoption, largely driven by early subsidies, low entry prices, and strong last-mile economics. That segment is now closer to saturation among early adopters. In addition, the tapering of central subsidies, price corrections by OEMs, and concerns around battery quality, safety incidents, and resale value made entry-level buyers more cautious and price-sensitive,” he said. “In contrast, electric cars are at an inflection point. Buyers now have far more credible choices across price bands, significantly better battery capacities, real-world ranges of 400km-500km, and access to ultra-fast charging. For urban and intercity users, EV cars now offer a compelling total cost of ownership advantage over ICE vehicles. Simply put, two-wheelers are experiencing consolidation, while cars are entering their growth phase—supported by improving technology, infrastructure confidence, and aspirational value,” he added.
