Kolkata: Kolkata’s transition to electric autos is gathering momentum even without a major policy push, with lower running and maintenance costs emerging as the biggest incentive for drivers to make the switch, according to a field study by Sustainable Mobility Network. The report, Accelerating the Electric Transition of Kolkata’s Para-transit System, found sizeable electric-auto presence on seven routes. Across these surveyed routes for which both total and electric-auto numbers were available, 118 of 598 autos surveyed were electric — around 19.7%.The transition, however, varied sharply across routes. Electric autos accounted for as much as 41.7% on the Taratala-Ramnagar route, followed by 38.1% on Ballykhal-Uttarpara route and 25% on Howrah Station-Salkia route. Presence was 11.8% on Taratala-Hazra, 5.2% on RG Kar-Dum Dum and just 1.6% on Dum Dum Station-30A Stand routes. No electric autos were recorded on the RG Kar-Beleghata ID and Bagbazar-Bata routes surveyed.Drivers interviewed for the study said a full electric charge typically costs Rs 50-70, against Rs 300-400 for an LPG refill. They also cited lower maintenance costs as electric autos do away with engine oil, clutch and conventional gearbox-related servicing.Aditi Kundu of Sustainable Mobility Network said, “The study’s payback calculations showed the higher purchase price could be recovered quickly through operating savings.” An electric auto bought for around Rs 4.65 lakh could recover its cost in about one year and five months under the modelled assumptions. With Rs 50,000 paid upfront and the balance financed, the estimated payback period rises to around one year and eight months.Bengal urban development and municipal affairs junior minister Umesh Rai said, “Electric vehicles are the future. Please share the practical issues, we are there to help.”The study, however, identified several hurdles that could slow the next phase of adoption. Drivers reported real-world battery range being 20-40% lower than advertised figures, while the potential Rs 1.5 lakh-Rs 1.8 lakh cost of battery replacement remains a major uncertainty. While overnight charging is sufficient on many routes, high-mileage operations may require daytime charging. Distance from service centres and uncertainty over resale value are other concerns. Drivers also reported quieter operation, less engine heat, reduced dependence on LPG and, in some cases, an ability to negotiate waterlogged stretches more easily.
