EV registrations in Maharashtra rebound 13% in FY26 after previous year’s dip

Electric vehicle (EV) registrations in Maharashtra dipped sharply in 2024-25, falling 19 per cent over the previous fiscal, but the trend reversed in 2025-26 with a 13 per cent rise, according to the latest state economic survey report. The rebound came even as the overall vehicle base in the state continued to expand steadily, driven largely by two-wheelers.

The total number of motor vehicles on Maharashtra’s roads touched 5.3 crore as on Jan 1, 2026, an increase of about 8.2 per cent from 4.9 crore a year earlier. Two-wheelers remained the dominant segment, rising from 3.5 crore to 3.8 crore in the same period. The report also noted that vehicle density climbed to 153 vehicles per km of road length on roads maintained by National Highways Authority of India, Public Works Department, and Zilla Parishads, underlining the growing pressure on road infrastructure.

Transport experts attributed the earlier EV slowdown to persistent “range anxiety” among buyers and inadequate charging infrastructure, which limited confidence in daily usability, especially outside major cities. The situation improved over the past year with more public charging points coming up across the state, including along highways. Power utilities also began offering discounted electricity rates for EV charging connections in housing societies, reducing operating costs and making home and community charging more viable, an EV expert working with the govt said.

Another factor aiding the recovery was the widening product pipeline. Over the last year, manufacturers launched multiple new EV models across hatchbacks, SUVs and premium segments, expanding consumer choice. This was particularly visible in electric two-wheelers, which continued to account for a significant share of EV adoption due to lower upfront costs and suitability for urban commutes.

As of December 2025, Maharashtra registered 9,27,061 battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The state’s electric vehicle policy aimed to accelerate adoption and manufacturing, expand charging infrastructure in urban and rural areas, support public transport electrification, and promote research, innovation and skill development to position Maharashtra as a leading EV hub.