Battery as a Service (BaaS): A new and magical revolution has swept the Indian automobile market, known as Battery as a Service (BaaS), and it has completely transformed the way electric vehicles are purchased. Now, you don’t need to pay the hefty price of a battery up front when purchasing an electric car. Major companies like Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, and JSW MG Motor are now selling vehicles on a “battery rental” model, making the starting price of EVs even lower than petrol cars.
This innovative model allows you to save lakhs of rupees upfront and only pay for the amount you drive. This technology not only fits the budget of middle-class families but is also proving to be a significant and cost-effective step towards saving the environment.
Real Truth of the BaaS Model
Simply put, the BaaS model means that you only purchase the car’s body and features from the showroom, while the company retains ownership of the battery. As we know, the battery alone accounts for approximately 30 to 40 percent of the total cost of an electric car. In this model, the battery’s price is deducted from the car’s base price.
In exchange for the battery, the customer pays the company a small monthly fee, or a “per-kilometer” rental, similar to a mobile postpaid plan. This reduces the starting price of the car so much that it has become a reality for customers who previously were unable to afford an electric car due to budget constraints.
Tata Punch EV Facelift and Maruti e-Vitara
Tata Motors has aggressively launched its most popular micro SUV, the Punch EV, with a base model starting at ₹9.69 lakh. In this model, you pay for the battery based solely on usage, and on a single full charge, the car boasts a range of up to 355 kilometers.
Meanwhile, Maruti Suzuki’s first electric SUV, the e-Vitara, is now available with the same magical battery subscription. Its regular price is around ₹15.99 lakh, but under the Bass scheme, it can be purchased for just ₹10.99 lakh, offering a range of over 500 kilometers for long journeys.
MG Windsor and Comet EV
JSW MG Motors was the first to popularize the Bass model in India, and its Windsor EV, with its plush seating and 449 km range, is available at a starting price of just ₹9.99 lakh, making it one of the most attractive cars in its segment. For narrow city streets and heavy traffic, the MG Comet EV has emerged as a powerful solution, with the Bass model priced at just ₹4.99 lakh, making it much more affordable than any petrol hatchback. Additionally, for those looking for premium segment options, the MG ZS EV is now available in this model, offering a luxury experience to customers with a tremendous range of 461 km and futuristic features.
