What if you could drive a brand-new electric car for under ₹5 lakh? That’s not a fantasy anymore — it’s exactly what Battery as a Service (BaaS) makes possible. By separating the cost of the battery pack from the vehicle itself, Indian automakers have quietly reshaped the entry point for EV ownership. The battery — which typically accounts for 30–40% of an electric car’s price — is no longer an upfront burden. Instead, you pay a small per-kilometre rental fee and drive away in an EV that would otherwise sit well beyond your budget. As of June 2026, eight EVs across five brands now offer this scheme in India, spanning hatchbacks, sedans, compact SUVs, mid-size SUVs, and even MPVs. Here is every single one, explained clearly.
Key Highlights
- BaaS was pioneered in India by MG Motor with the Windsor EV in September 2024
- As of June 2026, five brands — MG, Tata, Maruti Suzuki, Kia, and Toyota — offer BaaS
- Upfront cost savings range from ₹2.64 lakh (MG Comet EV) to ₹8.35 lakh (Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella)
- Per-km battery rental fees range from ₹2.6/km (Tata Tiago EV, Punch EV) to ₹4.99/km (Toyota Ebella)
- The Kia Carens Clavis EV is currently the only MPV available with BaaS in India
- The Tata Tiago EV with BaaS starts at just ₹4.69 lakh ex-showroom — the most affordable BaaS EV in the country
- Separate dual-loan structures for chassis and battery are now offered by most brands, with tenures up to 96 months for the battery
What Is Battery as a Service (BaaS)?
BaaS is a financing model where the buyer purchases only the vehicle chassis, while the battery pack is leased separately through a per-kilometre subscription. The moment you opt for BaaS, the ex-showroom price drops significantly — by anywhere from ₹2.64 lakh to over ₹8 lakh depending on the car. In return, you pay a fixed per-km fee to the automaker (or its financial partner) for every kilometre you drive.
Structurally, this involves two separate loans: one for the vehicle body (processed like a standard auto loan) and one for the battery (charged on usage). Banks including ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finserv back these schemes across various brands.
The model works best for city-centric buyers who drive 30–50 km per day. At higher daily mileage — say 80+ km — the per-km costs add up, and a standard outright purchase may prove more economical over five years.
All EVs Available with BaaS in India (June 2026)
1. Tata Tiago EV — India’s Most Affordable BaaS EV
The freshly updated 2026 Tata Tiago EV is the entry point into BaaS ownership in India. With the battery excluded, its starting price drops from ₹6.99 lakh to just ₹4.69 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most remarkable value propositions in the Indian car market today. The battery subscription is fixed at ₹2.6 per km, which is the lowest per-km rate among all BaaS offerings currently available. Note that Tata has, at the time of writing, revealed BaaS pricing only for the base Smart 19.2kWh variant.
The 2026 facelift brings a sharply redesigned exterior with blanked-off front fascia, slimmer LED headlamps, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, rear AC vents, and a new rotary gear selector. Two battery options continue — 19.2kWh (MIDC range: 226 km) and 24kWh (MIDC range: 285 km).
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard price (ex-showroom) | ₹6.99 lakh onwards |
| BaaS price (chassis) | ₹4.69 lakh + ₹2.6/km |
| Battery options | 19.2 kWh | 24 kWh |
| MIDC range | 226 km | 285 km |
| Segment | B1 hatchback |
2. Tata Punch EV — BaaS for the Urban SUV Crowd
The Tata Punch EV extends BaaS to a segment with considerably higher demand — compact electric SUVs. Its standard pricing starts at ₹9.69 lakh, but opting for BaaS pulls that down by ₹3.20 lakh. The subscription rate matches the Tiago EV at ₹2.6 per km, making Tata’s rate card the most competitive in the segment. As with the Tiago, BaaS pricing has currently been announced only for the base Smart trim with the 30kWh battery pack.
The Punch EV remains a strong pick for buyers who want SUV road presence and a more spacious cabin without the upfront cost of a traditional EV purchase.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard price (ex-showroom) | ₹9.69 lakh onwards |
| BaaS price (chassis) | ~₹6.49 lakh + ₹2.6/km |
| Battery (BaaS variant) | 30 kWh |
| Upfront saving | ₹3.20 lakh |
| Segment | Compact SUV |
3. MG Comet EV — City Runabout, Slashed Price
MG’s ultra-compact Comet EV was among the first models to receive BaaS pricing alongside the Windsor. Starting at ₹7.63 lakh ex-showroom in standard guise, the BaaS scheme cuts ₹2.64 lakh off the upfront cost. However, it carries the second-highest entry-level per-km rate in MG’s own lineup at ₹3.2/km. Worth noting: when BaaS was first introduced for the Comet in 2024, the rate was ₹2.5/km — it has since been revised upward, so buyers should factor this into long-term calculations.
The Comet EV’s tiny 17.3–17.4kWh battery suits pure city use, and its compact footprint makes urban parking effortless. It is, however, a strict four-seater and not suited for highway runs.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard price (ex-showroom) | ₹7.63 lakh onwards |
| BaaS upfront saving | ₹2.64 lakh |
| Battery rental | ₹3.2/km |
| Battery options | 17.3 kWh | 17.4 kWh |
| Segment | Micro EV / City car |
4. MG Windsor EV — The Model That Started It All
The Windsor EV is where India’s BaaS story began. Launched in September 2024 with a 38kWh battery, MG added a larger 52.9kWh pack in May 2025. The BaaS scheme reduces the upfront cost by up to ₹5 lakh, and the rental fee differs by pack: ₹3.9/km for the 38kWh and ₹4.5/km for the 52.9kWh variant. The Windsor has since become MG’s bestselling EV in India, a success story significantly driven by BaaS adoption.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery options | 38 kWh | 52.9 kWh |
| Battery rental | ₹3.9/km (38kWh) | ₹4.5/km (52.9kWh) |
| Upfront saving | Up to ₹5 lakh |
| Segment | Mid-size electric SUV |
5. MG ZS EV — Maximum Upfront Saving in MG’s Lineup
The MG ZS EV, which received BaaS pricing in September 2024 alongside the Windsor, carries the largest upfront cost saving in MG’s EV portfolio — up to ₹5.24 lakh. The ZS EV’s single 50.3kWh battery pack is rented at ₹4.5/km, the same rate as the Windsor EV Pro. As MG’s more established SUV nameplate, the ZS EV appeals to buyers who want a larger, more conventional SUV form factor with BaaS flexibility.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery | 50.3 kWh |
| Battery rental | ₹4.5/km |
| Upfront saving | Up to ₹5.24 lakh |
| Segment | Mid-size SUV |
6. Maruti Suzuki e Vitara — The Mass-Market Giant Joins In
Maruti Suzuki’s entry into the BaaS space with the e Vitara marks a significant moment for EV adoption in India. As the country’s largest car manufacturer by volume, Maruti’s participation signals mainstream acceptance of the BaaS model. The e Vitara is offered with two battery packs under BaaS: the 49kWh unit at ₹3.99/km and the larger 61kWh unit at ₹4.39/km. Without BaaS, the e Vitara starts at approximately ₹16.49 lakh; the scheme delivers meaningful cost relief for Maruti’s first-ever electric SUV.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard price (ex-showroom) | ~₹16.49 lakh onwards |
| Battery options | 49 kWh | 61 kWh |
| Battery rental | ₹3.99/km (49kWh) | ₹4.39/km (61kWh) |
| Claimed range | Over 500 km (61kWh) |
| Segment | Compact-to-mid SUV |
7. Kia Carens Clavis EV — The Only BaaS MPV in India
In May 2026, Kia introduced BaaS for the Carens Clavis EV, making it the only MPV in the country available under this scheme. With BaaS, the entry price of the 42kWh Standard Range variant drops from ₹17.99 lakh to ₹12.84 lakh — a saving of ₹5.15 lakh. The Extended Range (51.4kWh) variant comes in at ₹15.94 lakh under BaaS versus ₹21.99 lakh outright. What makes Kia’s offering particularly attractive is the uniform ₹3.3/km battery rental for both battery sizes, which is notably lower than MG’s rates for mid-size EVs.
Kia has partnered with ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finserv for this scheme, offering battery loan tenures of up to 96 months. Chassis EMIs for the Standard Range begin at ₹26,650 with a down payment of ₹51,520.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| BaaS price — Standard Range (42kWh) | ₹12.84 lakh + ₹3.3/km |
| BaaS price — Extended Range (51.4kWh) | ₹15.94 lakh + ₹3.3/km |
| Standard ex-showroom range | ₹17.99 lakh – ₹24.99 lakh |
| Claimed range | 404 km (42kWh) | 490 km (51.4kWh) |
| Seating | 6 or 7 seats |
| Segment | Electric MPV |
8. Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella — Premium BaaS Arrives
Toyota made its BaaS debut with the Urban Cruiser Ebella, announced in May 2026 for the top-spec E3 variant. Priced at ₹23.60 lakh in standard trim, the BaaS scheme brings the upfront chassis cost down to ₹15.25 lakh — a saving of ₹8.35 lakh, the largest absolute saving among all BaaS EVs in India right now. However, it also carries the highest per-km rental fee at ₹4.99/km. The Ebella is powered by a 61kWh battery with a claimed ARAI range of 543 km, sharing its architecture with the Maruti e Vitara.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard price (E3, ex-showroom) | ₹23.60 lakh |
| BaaS chassis price | ₹15.25 lakh + ₹4.99/km |
| Upfront saving | ₹8.35 lakh |
| Battery | 61 kWh |
| Claimed ARAI range | 543 km |
| Segment | Compact-to-mid SUV (premium) |
BaaS EV Comparison Table — All Models at a Glance (June 2026)
| Car | Segment | BaaS Starting Price | Per-km Rental | Upfront Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Tiago EV | Hatchback | ₹4.69 lakh | ₹2.6/km | ~₹2.30 lakh |
| Tata Punch EV | Compact SUV | ~₹6.49 lakh | ₹2.6/km | ₹3.20 lakh |
| MG Comet EV | Micro EV | ~₹4.99 lakh | ₹3.2/km | ₹2.64 lakh |
| MG Windsor EV | Mid-size SUV | Varies by variant | ₹3.9–₹4.5/km | Up to ₹5 lakh |
| MG ZS EV | Mid-size SUV | Varies by variant | ₹4.5/km | Up to ₹5.24 lakh |
| Maruti e Vitara | Compact-mid SUV | Varies by variant | ₹3.99–₹4.39/km | Significant |
| Kia Carens Clavis EV | Electric MPV | ₹12.84 lakh | ₹3.3/km | ₹5.15 lakh |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella | Compact-mid SUV | ₹15.25 lakh | ₹4.99/km | ₹8.35 lakh |
Pros and Cons of Choosing a BaaS EV in India
Pros
- Lower upfront cost: Savings of ₹2.64 lakh to ₹8.35 lakh make EVs accessible to a far wider buyer pool
- Battery health peace of mind: Since the battery is technically owned/managed by the brand, degradation risk transfers away from the buyer
- Dual-loan flexibility: Separate financing for chassis and battery allows better EMI management
- Lower road tax and registration: A lower declared vehicle value means reduced taxes in many states
- No battery replacement cost anxiety: Especially relevant for buyers planning ownership beyond 7–8 years
Cons
- High-mileage penalty: At 80–100 km/day or more, per-km costs quickly outpace the savings from a lower upfront cost
- Long-term ownership cost can be higher: A total cost-of-ownership calculation over 5–7 years often favours outright purchase for heavy users
- Resale value complexity: Reselling a BaaS vehicle involves transferring the battery subscription, which may complicate the used-car transaction
- Per-km rates can be revised: The MG Comet EV saw its rate go from ₹2.5/km to ₹3.2/km after launch — contracts should be reviewed carefully
- Limited BaaS variant availability: Most brands offer BaaS only on base or specific trims, limiting choice of features
Who Should (and Should Not) Choose BaaS?
BaaS makes sense if you: drive 40–60 km per day on average, are budget-conscious on upfront costs, plan to use the car primarily in city conditions, and intend to keep the car for 4–5 years or less.
Outright purchase makes more sense if you: cover 80+ km daily, plan to own the car for 7–10 years, want maximum flexibility during resale, or want access to higher-spec variants not available under BaaS.
A useful breakeven rule: at ₹2.6/km (Tata’s rate), 44 km/day over 5 years amounts to roughly ₹2.07 lakh in battery rental — which may or may not exceed the upfront saving depending on variant. Use the brand’s official EMI calculator or ask the dealership for a full TCO breakdown before signing.
The Road Ahead: What’s Coming Next on BaaS
The BaaS bandwagon is only going to get more crowded. Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is reportedly planning a BaaS scheme for the VF3 micro-SUV when it arrives in India. The Mahindra XUV400 EV already lists BaaS as a feature on certain booking platforms, though official per-km pricing hasn’t been formally announced at the time of writing. As EV penetration rises and more players enter the market, expect BaaS rates to become increasingly competitive — and possibly even standardised through RBI or OEM guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens to the battery at the end of the BaaS term?
Most brands allow buyers to either continue the subscription, purchase the battery outright at a residual value, or return the vehicle. The exact terms differ by brand and financial partner — always read the contract before opting in.
2. Can I sell a BaaS EV in the second-hand market?
Yes, but it’s more complex than a standard resale. The battery subscription must be transferred to the new owner, which requires approval from the brand and the financing partner. Some buyers may be put off by this arrangement, which could affect resale value.
3. Is the charging cost included in the ₹/km battery rental?
No. The per-km fee covers only the battery rental — the actual cost of electricity for charging is paid separately by the owner, whether charged at home or at a public fast charger. Factor in approximately ₹1–2/km in home charging costs on top of the rental fee.
4. Which BaaS EV offers the best value for a daily city commuter?
For most city commuters doing under 50 km per day, the Tata Tiago EV BaaS at ₹4.69 lakh + ₹2.6/km is the most cost-effective starting point. For families needing more space, the Kia Carens Clavis EV at ₹12.84 lakh + ₹3.3/km offers strong value given its MPV practicality and competitive rental rate.
5. Does opting for BaaS affect my car loan interest rate or credit score?
BaaS involves two separate loan accounts — one for the chassis and one for the battery. Both appear on your credit profile. The chassis loan follows standard auto loan norms, while the battery loan may be treated differently by banks. It is advisable to compare the total EMI outgo (chassis EMI + estimated monthly battery rental) against a single outright loan before deciding.
6. Are BaaS schemes available across all dealerships?
Yes, BaaS schemes are offered through the official dealer network of each respective brand. However, bank tie-ups and specific finance terms may vary slightly by dealer. Always confirm the exact rate, tenure, and terms at your nearest authorised dealership.
7. Is the battery warranty different under BaaS compared to outright purchase?
Generally, the battery remains under the brand’s care and is typically covered for performance degradation for the duration of the subscription. This can be an advantage — any significant capacity loss may be addressed by the manufacturer as part of the BaaS arrangement. Clarify this clause explicitly before signing.
Conclusion
Battery as a Service has evolved from a clever marketing gimmick at a single MG launch to a genuine, multi-brand ownership alternative that now covers hatchbacks, compact SUVs, mid-size SUVs, MPVs, and premium electric crossovers. The ₹2.6/km rate from Tata is the sharpest tool in the shed for city drivers, while Kia’s uniform ₹3.3/km for both battery sizes in the Carens Clavis EV rewards family buyers who want flexibility without a complicated pricing structure. Toyota’s entry, while priciest per-km at ₹4.99, offers the single largest upfront saving of ₹8.35 lakh — meaningful for buyers stretching into the ₹23 lakh segment.
BaaS is not a silver bullet. Run the numbers for your specific daily usage and ownership horizon. But for first-time EV buyers in Indian cities who baulk at the upfront cost, it is today the most practical bridge into electric mobility that the Indian auto industry has ever built.
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