While electric scooters continue to dominate India’s two-wheeler EV landscape, a quiet but significant shift is underway in the background. Leading motorcycle manufacturers are intensifying research and development efforts to enter the electric motorcycle space, aiming to capture demand in what is still a nascent but high-potential segment.
With over 12 million internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles sold annually in India, even a small shift toward electric bikes could translate into massive volumes. Recognising this opportunity, legacy players are now preparing for the next phase of two-wheeler electrification.
Top two-wheeler brands are no longer limiting their electric ambitions to scooters. Companies such as Hero MotoCorp, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, TVS Motor Company, Bajaj Auto, and Royal Enfield are all investing heavily in electric motorcycle development.
These manufacturers bring decades of experience in engineering, manufacturing, and distribution—advantages that could prove crucial in shaping India’s electric bike ecosystem.
So far, India’s EV two-wheeler growth has been driven mainly by low-speed and high-speed scooters, thanks to their affordability and urban-friendly nature. Motorcycles, however, account for the bulk of two-wheeler sales in the country.
Electric motorcycles offer several potential benefits:
- Lower running and maintenance costs
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Better performance through instant torque
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
If these advantages are packaged at the right price point, electric bikes could appeal strongly to daily commuters and enthusiasts alike.
Unlike scooters, electric motorcycles require more advanced engineering. Factors such as weight distribution, battery placement, thermal management, and riding dynamics are far more critical.
As a result, major OEMs are working on:
- Dedicated EV platforms for motorcycles
- High-density battery packs
- Improved motor and controller systems
- Advanced software and connectivity features
Several companies are also collaborating with global partners and startups to accelerate development and reduce time-to-market.
The rapid rise of electric scooters has provided valuable lessons. Early challenges around battery safety, charging infrastructure, and after-sales support have shaped current strategies.
Motorcycle manufacturers are now being more cautious and methodical, ensuring that their electric products meet reliability and performance expectations before mass rollout.
This measured approach aims to avoid reputational risks while building long-term customer trust
Despite growing interest, electric motorcycles still face major hurdles:
- Limited fast-charging networks outside cities
- High battery costs
- Uncertainty around resale value
- Consumer concerns over range and durability
To address these issues, OEMs are working on improving localisation, scaling battery production, and expanding charging partnerships.
If even 10–15 percent of India’s annual motorcycle buyers transition to electric over the next decade, the segment could become one of the largest EV categories in the country.
This shift would not only reduce emissions but also transform supply chains, dealer networks, and service models across the industry.
The next few years are likely to witness the first wave of mass-market electric motorcycles from major manufacturers. These models are expected to focus on:
- Commuter and mid-segment pricing
- Practical real-world range
- Familiar design language
- Strong after-sales support
As technology matures and infrastructure expands, premium and performance-oriented electric bikes may also follow.
Although electric scooters currently dominate India’s two-wheeler EV market, electric motorcycles are slowly gathering momentum. With Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, and Royal Enfield stepping up their investments, the segment is poised for steady growth.
If manufacturers succeed in balancing cost, performance, and reliability, electric motorcycles could become the next big chapter in India’s mobility transition—unlocking huge volumes from the country’s vast base of ICE bike users.
