The global electric scooter market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by rising urbanization, environmental concerns, and technological preferred advancements. As cities aim to reduce carbon emissions and congestion, electric scooters (e-scooters) have emerged as a mode of last-mile mobility. India, with its vast two-wheeler ecosystem, has become one of the fastest-growing markets for EV scooters . This article examines the key trends, statistics, and growth drivers of the EV scooter market in India compared to the global landscape.
Global EV Scooter Market Overview
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Market Size & Forecast
The global electric scooter market was estimated at USD 37.07 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2023 to 2030, reaching nearly USD 78.66 billion by 2030 Grand View Research. -
Volume Growth
By volume, the market is forecast to hit 298.5 million units by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 18.1% from 2024 to 2031 Business Wire. -
Regional Dominance
Asia Pacific dominates the electric two-wheeler sector, accounting for over 97.3% of the global market share in 2024, driven by high population density and supportive policies IMARC Group.
Key Drivers:
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Technological improvements in battery efficiency and charging speeds
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Government incentives and emission regulations in Europe, China, and Southeast Asia
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Rising urbanization and the need for cost-effective, eco-friendly transport
India's EV Scooter Market Dynamics
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Rapid Sales Growth
India’s electric two-wheeler (E2W) segment recorded 1.14 million unit sales in 2024, marking a 33% year-on-year increase from approximately 857,000 units in 2023 Autocar Professional.
Reuters. -
Market Leaders
Ola Electric leads with 326,443 e-scooters sold in FY 2024, capturing 35% of India's e-scooter market; overall, e-scooters constitute about 5% of total two-wheeler sales in India Motorcycles Data. -
Government Support
Under the EMPS 2024 scheme, the Indian government allocated ₹500 crore for two- and three-wheeler subsidies, boosting affordability and adoption Autocar Professional.
Comparative Analysis: India vs. Global Market
| Metric | Global Market | India Market |
|---|---|---|
| Market Size (2023) | USD 37.07 billion | – |
| Market Size (2030/2031 forecast) | USD 78.66 billion by 2030 298.5 M units by 2031 |
– |
| 2024 Sales Volume | – | 1.14 million units |
| 2024 YoY Growth | 9.9% CAGR (value) | 33% |
| Regional Market Share | Asia Pacific: 97.3% | India: ~59% of India's EV market in two-wheelers The Times of India |
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Growth Rate Disparity: India's EV two-wheeler sales growth rate far outpaces the global market's value CAGR, highlighting a strong local appetite and nascent market stage.
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Value vs. Volume: Globally, value growth is robust, but India's market is volume-driven, with affordability and fleet deployments (eg, ride-sharing) pushing unit sales.
Challenges & Opportunities
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Infrastructure Gaps
Despite fast adoption, charging infrastructure remains uneven across Indian cities. Investments in fast chargers and battery-swapping stations are crucial . -
Battery Longevity & Cost
Battery degradation within 4–5 years poses replacement cost concerns. More R&D and economies of scale can lower per-unit battery costs. -
Regulatory Environment
Continued government incentives and state-specific subsidies can sustain growth, but phased reduction may pressure margins. -
Innovation & Local Manufacturing
Localizing component manufacturing and advancing battery tech will reduce costs and improve supply chain resilience.
Strategic Recommendations for Stakeholders
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OEMs & Startups:
Partner with local energy providers and invest in battery-swapping networks to range relief anxiety. -
Government:
Extend subsidy timelines and streamline regulations for setting up charging stations, especially along highways. -
Investors:
Focus on scalable charging infrastructure startups and advanced battery technology ventures, where global expertise can be localized.
Conclusion
The EV scooter market in India is charting a trajectory well above the global average, driven by favorable demographics, policy support, and aggressive entry by homegrown players. Yet to maximize long-term sustainability, India must address infrastructure and battery challenges. By fostering public-private partnerships and leveraging India's manufacturing capabilities, stakeholders can consolidate India's position as a global leader in electric two-wheeler adoption.