One of the most efficient ways to lower the cost of buying an electric car is opting for the Battery as a Service (BaaS) program. This innovative model separates the battery—the most expensive component of an EV—from the vehicle’s upfront price. Buyers purchase the car body at a significantly reduced cost and pay a per-kilometer subscription fee for battery usage, effectively turning a large capital expense into a manageable operating cost.
This approach makes electric vehicles more accessible, especially in India, where high upfront prices have been a barrier to EV adoption. Today, several affordable electric vehicles from MG Motor India, Tata Motors, and Maruti Suzuki are available with BaaS options, helping buyers smartly enter the EV space without compromising on features, range, or reliability.If you’re planning to buy an affordable electric vehicle intelligently, here’s a comprehensive guide to the key models offering BaaS in India (as of February 2026).
What is Battery as a Service (BaaS)?
BaaS is a subscription-based financing model (often structured as a dual-loan product) where:
- You pay a lower ex-showroom price for the vehicle (excluding the battery cost).
- You rent the battery via a per-km fee, which covers usage and often includes aspects like warranty support.
- Savings on upfront cost can range from ₹2-5 lakh or more, depending on the model.
- Additional perks may include assured buyback, extended warranties, or free charging incentives.
Note: The per-km fee is for battery rental only—electricity charging costs are separate (typically ₹1-2/km depending on home/public charging).
Key EVs with BaaS in India
1. MG Comet EV – The Most Affordable Entry PointMG pioneered widespread BaaS adoption in India and dominates with multiple models. The Comet EV is a compact city hatchback ideal for urban commuters.
- Battery: 17.3-17.4 kWh
- Range: Up to ~230 km (claimed)
- BaaS Pricing (ex-showroom):
- Executive: ₹4.92 lakh + ₹3.2/km
- Excite: ₹6.09 lakh + ₹3.2/km
- Exclusive: ₹7.09 lakh + ₹3.2/km
- Standard Pricing (with battery): Starts around ₹7.50-9.73 lakh
- Upfront Savings: Up to ~₹2.7 lakh
- Highlights: Compact size, easy parking, modern features like touchscreen infotainment, and 8-year battery warranty (first owner).
Perfect for daily city runs under 50-60 km, where BaaS keeps monthly costs lo
2. Tata Punch EV (2026 Facelift) – Compact SUV Value King
Tata recently introduced BaaS on its refreshed Punch EV facelift, making it one of the cheapest ways to own a proper electric SUV.
- Battery Options: 30 kWh or 40 kWh
- Range: Up to 468 km (ARAI, 40 kWh); real-world ~350-355 km
- BaaS Pricing (ex-showroom):
- Starts at ₹6.49 lakh + ₹2.6/km (lowest per-km rate among major options)
- Standard Pricing (with battery): Starts at ₹9.69 lakh
- Upfront Savings: Around ₹3.2 lakh
- Highlights: Rugged SUV styling, high ground clearance, ventilated seats, 360° camera, lifetime battery warranty (first owner, up to 15 years/unlimited km on larger pack), and strong safety credentials.
This model targets budget buyers transitioning from ICE cars, with the lowest battery rental fee making it highly economical for moderate usage.
3. MG Windsor EV – Crossover Appeal with Flexible Options
MG’s bestseller brought BaaS mainstream, offering a stylish Intelligent CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) with two battery choices.
- Battery Options: 38 kWh or 52.9 kWh
- Range: Up to 449 km (claimed, larger pack)
- BaaS Pricing (ex-showroom):
- Excite: ₹9.99 lakh + ₹3.9/km
- Higher variants (Exclusive/Essence): Up to ₹13.39 lakh + ₹3.9-4.5/km
- Standard Pricing (with battery): Starts around ₹13.99-18.50 lakh
- Upfront Savings: ₹3-5 lakh+
- Highlights: Spacious interiors, large touchscreen, ADAS features, lifetime battery warranty (first owner), and premium feel.
Great for those wanting more space and range without a massive initial outlay.
4. Maruti Suzuki e Vitara – Mass-Market SUV Contender
Maruti’s first EV, the e Vitara (also known as e-Vitara), launched with BaaS to make it ultra-affordable.
- Battery Options: 49 kWh or 61 kWh
- Range: Up to 543 km (claimed)
- BaaS Pricing (ex-showroom, introductory until March 2026):
- Delta (49 kWh): ₹10.99 lakh + ₹3.99/km
- Zeta/Alpha (61 kWh): ₹11.99-14.29 lakh + ₹4.39/km
- Highlights: Family-friendly SUV, Level-2 ADAS, complimentary home charger installation, free charging (up to 1 year/1,000 units), 8-year/1.6 lakh km battery warranty, and 50-60% assured buyback.
Maruti’s vast service network and incentives make this a smart pick for reliability-focused buyers.
5. MG ZS EV – Premium Midsize Option
MG also offers BaaS on the ZS EV for those seeking a more upscale experience.
- Battery: Varies by variant
- BaaS Pricing: Higher variants around ₹4.5/km (details vary; upfront lower by significant margin)
- Highlights: Larger size, premium features, and strong performance.
Why Choose BaaS?
- Lower Entry Barrier: Reduces initial cost by 20-40%, making EVs comparable to mid-range ICE cars.
- Flexibility: Pay-as-you-drive suits varying usage patterns.
- Risk Mitigation: Battery concerns (degradation, resale) shift partly to the manufacturer via warranties and buyback.
- Growing Adoption: With MG leading, Tata and Maruti joining, BaaS is accelerating India’s EV transition.
BaaS isn’t for everyone—high-mileage users (over 100 km/day) might find per-km fees add up, so calculate based on your driving (e.g., 60 km/day = ₹156-468/month extra on battery rental across models).If you’re eyeing an affordable EV, explore these BaaS options at showrooms. Test drive, crunch the numbers (including charging costs), and choose what fits your lifestyle. The future of smart, cost-effective electric mobility in India is here—make the switch wisely! Stay updated via official brand sites for any ongoing offers or changes.
