rajdeep kumar 29 days ago

rajdeep #Hybrids Car #Uttar Pradesh #RTO

Uttar Pradesh’s Game-Changing Tax Waiver: Save Up to ₹3 Lakh on Hybrids—Plus Top EVs Under ₹15 Lakh

Policy: Zero RTO charges on strong hybrid electric vehicles in Uttar Pradesh

Savings: Up to ₹3 lakh in taxes

Effective Date: Implemented July 5, 2024; ongoing as of March 30, 2025

Context: Uttar Pradesh Electric Vehicle Manufacturing and Mobility Policy 2022

Big news for car buyers in Uttar Pradesh! As of March 30, 2025, the state government’s bold move to slash registration (RTO) charges to zero on strong hybrid electric vehicles (EVs) is turning heads—and saving wallets. With potential tax savings of up to ₹3 lakh, this policy is a lifeline for eco-conscious drivers eyeing hybrid tech. But what if you’re hunting for a pure electric car under ₹15 lakh? Let’s dive into this game-changer and explore some budget-friendly EV options.

The Hybrid Tax Break: What’s the Deal?

Back in July 2024, the Uttar Pradesh government dropped a bombshell: a 100% waiver on registration fees for strong hybrid EVs and plug-in hybrids, effective immediately. Normally, UP levies an 8% road tax on cars under ₹10 lakh and 10% on those above (ex-showroom), plus additional fees that can pile up fast. For a ₹20 lakh hybrid like the Toyota Innova Hycross, that’s a ₹2-3 lakh tax bill—now completely wiped out. The policy, rooted in the state’s 2022 EV Mobility vision, aims to boost green transport and runs through October 2027 (or until funds dry up).

This isn’t just talk—it’s action. Models like the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (₹18.79 lakh ex-showroom), Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder (₹16.66 lakh), and Honda City e:HEV (₹19 lakh) are suddenly way more affordable on-road in UP. Buyers of premium hybrids like the Toyota Innova Hycross or Maruti Invicto can save over ₹3 lakh, per dealer estimates. It’s a win for companies like Maruti, Toyota, and Honda, and a bigger win for UP residents. Posts on X call it a “masterstroke” for affordability, and sales are already ticking up—dealers report a 20-30% hybrid sales bump since mid-2024.

But here’s the catch: “strong hybrid EVs” aren’t pure electric cars. They pair an electric motor with a petrol engine, cutting emissions but still sipping fuel. Pure EVs got this zero-RTO perk earlier, back in 2023, and hybrids joined the party in 2024. So, while the policy’s a boon, it doesn’t mean every “EV” under ₹15 lakh qualifies—more on that soon.

Why This Matters

India’s car taxes are notoriously steep—up to 40% with GST, cess, and road tax—so UP’s waiver is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just about savings; it’s about nudging people toward cleaner tech. Hybrids bridge the gap between gas-guzzlers and full EVs, offering better mileage (20-25 kmpl vs. 15 kmpl for petrol cars) without range anxiety. With UP being one of India’s biggest car markets—over 2.36 lakh units sold in H1 2024, per FADA—this could spark a green revolution. Will other states follow? Fingers crossed.

Good EVs Under ₹15 Lakh: The Pure Electric Picks

Now, your question: what are some good EV cars under ₹15 lakh? Since UP’s waiver applies to hybrids (and pure EVs too), let’s focus on fully electric options in this budget—perfect for those skipping the hybrid route. Note: prices are ex-showroom, and with UP’s zero RTO, on-road costs stay close to these figures.

1. Tata Tiago EV

• Price: ₹7.99 lakh - ₹11.89 lakh
• Range: 250-315 km (ARAI)
• Why It’s Good: Affordable, zippy, and Tata’s best-seller in the EV space. The base XE model starts under ₹8 lakh, and with zero RTO in UP, it’s a steal. Perfect for city commutes with a 19.2-24 kWh battery.
• Perks: 4-star Global NCAP safety rating, compact size for tight streets.

1. MG Comet EV

• Price: ₹6.99 lakh - ₹9.53 lakh
• Range: 230 km (ARAI)
• Why It’s Good: The cheapest EV in India, ideal for urbanites. Its quirky boxy design hides a smart interior, and the 17.3 kWh battery keeps it light and efficient. In UP, the top-end Plush trim lands under ₹10 lakh on-road.
• Perks: Tiny turning radius, easy parking, low running costs (₹1/km).

1. Citroën ë-C3

• Price: ₹11.61 lakh - ₹13.92 lakh
• Range: 320 km (ARAI)
• Why It’s Good: A crossover vibe with SUV-ish looks, this one’s got a 29.2 kWh battery for longer hauls. The top Feel variant fits under ₹15 lakh with UP’s waiver, offering decent space and a funky French flair.
• Perks: 100 kW fast charging (0-80% in 57 mins), comfy ride.

1. Tata Punch EV

• Price: ₹10.99 lakh - ₹14.49 lakh
• Range: 315-421 km (ARAI)
• Why It’s Good: Launched in 2024, this micro-SUV EV blends rugged style with electric efficiency. The Long Range (35 kWh) version hits 421 km, and the base model sneaks under ₹15 lakh on-road in UP.
• Perks: 5-star safety, peppy 90 kW motor, practical boot space.

Hybrids Under ₹15 Lakh? Not Quite

Here’s the rub: no strong hybrid EVs dip below ₹15 lakh ex-showroom. The cheapest, like the Toyota Hyryder, starts at ₹16.66 lakh, and even with UP’s ₹2-3 lakh savings, it’s still above the mark. Pure EVs dominate this budget, while hybrids play in the ₹16-25 lakh sandbox. If you’re set on a hybrid, UP’s policy makes them tempting—just not under ₹15 lakh.

The Verdict

Uttar Pradesh’s zero RTO charges are a game-changer, slashing hybrid costs by up to ₹3 lakh and keeping pure EV prices lean. For budget buyers, the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV shine under ₹10 lakh, while the Punch EV and Citroën ë-C3 stretch closer to ₹15 lakh with more range and flair. Hybrids? They’re a steal in UP, but you’ll need a bigger wallet upfront.

So, what’s your pick—hybrid savings or pure EV vibes? Drop your thoughts below!

Notes:

• Policy Accuracy: UP’s zero RTO for strong hybrids (since July 5, 2024) and EVs (since 2023) is confirmed via Business Today, The Hindu Businessline, and X posts. Savings of ₹2-3 lakh align with 8-10% road tax waivers on ₹20-25 lakh hybrids.
• EV List: Focused on pure EVs under ₹15 lakh ex-showroom, as hybrids don’t fit this range. Prices and ranges are sourced from manufacturer sites and recent reviews (e.g., Tata, MG, Citroën).