Carmakers next challenge: Getting Indian buyers to purchase EVs

Mahindra & Mahindra’s launch of its e-KUV at a price of Rs 8.25 lakh ($11,587), compared to its next cleanest option — a mid-range petrol variant at Rs 6.5 lakh — highlights the challenge of pricing electric cars that could entice buyers. A global model, such as Hyundai Motor India’s Kona electric SUV, starts at Rs 2.5 million and has sold just about 300 units in seven months since its launch.

More than half the passenger vehicles sold in India last year cost $8,000 or less, according to BloombergNEF (BNEF). Electric cars won’t achieve price parity with gasoline-powered cars until the