By Tata Motors provided a fascinating glimpse into the ownership and usage patterns of their electric vehicles (EVs), leveraging data from over 100,000 EVs sold by the company. With Tata Motors holding a significant 70 per cent share in the EV market, these insights are indicative of broader trends in the electric vehicle landscape. Remarkably, the data revealed that 23 per cent of Tata Motors’ EV owners are first-time car buyers, defying prevalent apprehensions surrounding EV ownership.
Shailesh Chandra, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility MD, expressed his satisfaction with this trend, stating that the increasing number of first-time buyers suggests diminishing fears and doubts associated with electric vehicles. An unexpected revelation was that 75 per cent of EV owners use their electric vehicles as their primary mode of transportation, emphasizing the growing role of EVs in daily commuting. Surprisingly, 50 per cent of Tata Motors’ EV sales originate from regions outside the top 20 cities. While these buyers encounter challenges like a sparse charging network and electricity quality issues, the majority resort to home charging, primarily conducted overnight, mitigating these concerns.
Tata Motors, armed with a substantial electric fleet, has amassed a wealth of data, amounting to 1.4 billion kilometres of EV usage. This trove includes insights into driving and charging patterns, popular long-distance routes, and preferred charging points. The company utilizes this extensive dataset to refine and enhance its EV products continually. Breaking gender stereotypes, Tata Motors reported that 24 per cent of their EVs were purchased by women, double the industry average for female EV buyers. Shailesh Chandra applauded this trend, highlighting the growing acceptance and recognition of the benefits of EVs among women.
Further insights from the onboard connectivity suite indicated that, on average, EVs are in use for 26 days a month, surpassing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by 23 per cent. The average monthly distance covered by EVs was reported at 1,400 km, marking a 10 per cent increase compared to ICE vehicles. Overall, Tata Motors’ data reflects a shifting paradigm in the adoption and usage of electric vehicles in India.
