Electric Scooter vs Petrol Scooter - Which One to Choose?

There have been tremendous advancements in two-wheeler technology in the last few years. Even though the market continues to be dominated by petrol scooters, the introduction of electric scooters has given prospective customers an array of two-wheelers to choose from.

So, when it comes to purchasing your two wheeler, which one would you go for if the choice is between the electric vs petrol scooter?

What Are Electric Scooter Vehicles?

Electric scooter vehicles, commonly known as e-scooters, are two-wheeled personal mobility devices powered by electric motors. They are designed for short-distance urban commuting and offer an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation. 

E-scooters are rechargeable, often featuring a lithium-ion battery, and can travel at speeds typically ranging from 15 to 30 miles per hour (24 to 48 kilometers per hour). These vehicles have gained popularity in many cities worldwide as a convenient and sustainable solution for reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions. 

E-scooters are typically lightweight and portable, making them easy to park and carry when not in use, and they are often available for rent through sharing services.

What Are Petrol Scooter Vehicles?

Petrol scooter vehicles, also known as gas scooters, are two-wheeled motorized vehicles that rely on internal combustion engines fueled by gasoline or petrol. These scooters are designed for personal transportation, offering riders a convenient means of commuting within urban or suburban areas. 

Unlike electric scooters, petrol scooters require regular refueling and emit exhaust gases. They are capable of higher speeds compared to electric scooters, often reaching 30 to 60 miles per hour (48 to 96 kilometers per hour) or more, depending on the model. 

Petrol scooters are available in various engine sizes and styles, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs for personal mobility.

Electric Scooter vs Petrol Scooter: Which is Better?

Comparison Between Electric Scooter & Petrol Scooter

1. Pricing:

Treading the path to being eco-friendly comes at a significant cost as electric scooters are available at a premium cost compared to the more affordable petrol version. Some of the best-rated electric scooters run on lithium-ion batteries that are expensive. However, the Government of India is trying to promote the adoption of e-scooters and has therefore raised the cap on the incentives to Rs. 15,000 per kWh that is able to cover almost 40% of the two-wheeler’s total cost.

Petrol scooters are best aligned with the interest of customers who are generally price-conscious. The models available within this segment are significantly large at varying price points depending on the capacity of the engine. Having said that, a large number of customers are switching to electric scooters given the recent hike in petrol prices.

2. Fuel Cost:

There are no fuel costs associated with electric scooters. On the other hand, it offers the same mileage as a petrol model at 15% of the cost of one liter of petrol. In the long run, electric scooters are more economical. However, there are limited stations wherein one can charge their electric vehicles. The government of India is also incentivizing entrepreneurs who provide self-charging devices / set up charging stations for EVs, thereby making this particular issue become smaller each day.

Petrol scooters on average deliver around 50 to 60 kms per litre. However, select models that are fuel-efficient will be able to deliver up to 100 kms per litre.

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3. Operational Range:

If you need a two wheeler to only cover short distances, then the electric version is an ideal choice. With the availability of limited charging stations, covering long distances on e-scooters can be risky. Having said that, newer electric scooter models are now available with self-charging solutions which implies that long rides are not too far away in the future.

There is no restriction on the operation usage of petrol scooters at all. As long as you have friendly roads and terrains along with access to petrol stations / carry petrol with you, you can take your petrol scooter out for a ride anywhere.

4. Maintenance:

Maintenance costs for electric scooters are relatively low compared to their petrol counterparts. Besides charging the battery regularly and cleaning the two at frequent intervals, there is not much maintenance involved.

Petrol scooters on the other hand have to be regularly serviced especially if the parts need replacement or mechanical parts are worn out.

5. Convenience:

To operate an electric scooter, it must have at least two hours of time to fully charge. It can be a challenging job if you reside in apartment blocks to charge an electric scooter as charging stations can be difficult to access. However, many e-scooters have removable batteries that can be charged within your home.

Petrol variants on the other hand can be fuelled at gas stations, anywhere, anytime which adds that much needed layer of convenience when driving around.

Taking into account these key factors and parameters who can purchase your preferred two wheeler variant easily. If you are in need of financing, you may consider taking out a bike loan from SMFG India Credit. Please note that at the present, SMFG India Credit Two Wheeler Loans are not available for those who wish to purchase electric bikes / scooters. If you need a loan for the purchase of an electric vehicle, please apply for a personal loan instead. 

Reasons Why Electric Scooters are better than Petrol Scooter

1. Environmentally Friendly: 

Electric scooters emit no tailpipe emissions, resulting in less air pollution and a lower carbon footprint than petrol scooters.

2. Lower Operating Costs:

Charging an electric scooter is much less expensive than refuelling with petrol. Electric scooters have fewer moving parts, so maintenance costs are generally lower.

3. Quieter Operation:

Unlike petrol scooters, electric scooters run quietly, reducing noise pollution in urban areas.

4. Instant Torque: 

Electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in faster acceleration and a smoother riding experience.

5. No fumes:

Unlike internal combustion engines, electric scooters emit no fumes, making for a cleaner and more pleasant ride.

6. More Efficient:

Electric scooters are more efficient than petrol scooters in terms of energy-to-movement conversion rate.

Pros and Cons of Electric Scooters

Pros Of Electric Vehicles:

• Eco-friendly: Electric scooters emit no emissions, resulting in cleaner air and a lower carbon footprint.
• Cost-effective: Charging an electric scooter is less expensive than refuelling with petrol, and overall maintenance costs are lower.
• Quiet Operation: Electric scooters operate quietly, reducing noise pollution in urban areas.
• Instant Torque: Electric motors offer quick acceleration and a smooth ride.
• Low Maintenance: Because they have fewer moving parts, they require less maintenance.

Cons Of Electric Vehicles:

• Limited Range: Electric scooters have a limited range on a single charge, making them best suited for short commutes.
• Charging Time: Charging takes longer than refuelling with petrol.
• Charging Infrastructure: A lack of charging infrastructure in some areas can limit their practicality.

Pros and Cons of Petrol Scooters

Pros Of Petrol Scooters

Extended Range: Petrol scooters have a longer range per tank than electric scooters, making them suitable for longer commutes.

• Quick Refuelling: Filling up a petrol scooter at a petrol station is quick and easy.
• High Speed: They can travel at higher speeds, making them suitable for highway use.
• More Dependable: Petrol engines have a long track record of dependability and performance.

Cons Of Petrol Scooters

• Emissions: They emit carbon dioxide, which contributes to air pollution and climate change.
• Higher Operating Costs: Since petrol is more expensive than electricity, operating costs are higher.
• Noise Pollution: Petrol scooters are noisier than electric scooters, contributing to urban noise pollution.
• Complex Maintenance: Due to the complexity of internal combustion engines, they require more maintenance.

How to Apply for a Two Wheeler Loan?

It is a convenient, quick and hassle-free process when applying for your two wheeler loan at SMFG India Credit. The following outlines steps will make the process simple and easy:

1. Visit our page on Two Wheeler loans.
2. Check the eligibility parameters and see if you fulfill the requirements
3. Go through the two wheeler loan interest rates to understand the rates, fees and charges applicable. 
4. Use the bike loan EMI calculator to assess the monthly installments 
5. Click on the “Apply now” button and select “Two wheeler loans” to apply. 
6. Enter the required details carefully.  

These steps officially register your application interest for a two wheeler loan with SMFG India Credit. A customer service executive will get in touch with you to discuss your requirements and explain the process.

Must Read: How to Buy a Bike on EMI?

Here are the next steps: 

• Based on the information provided by you, your Two Wheeler Loan Eligibility will be assessed. If yes, your application will be processed further
• You will be requested to provide the required documents. 
• The documents and your details will go through various verification checks as per SMFG India Credit’s policy.
• Upon successful verification, your loan will get approved.
• SMFG India Credit will share a Loan Agreement Document with you.
• Please go through the terms carefully before signing the agreement. After receiving your confirmation your loan will be approved and the required funds will be disbursed.

This covers all the aspects of how to get a two wheeler loan approved online at SMFG India Credit. However, if you have any questions or queries, you can reach out by emailing us at   . You can also get in touch with our SMFG India Credit customer care service department on our toll free number 1800 103 6001 . Alternatively, you may also visit your nearest SMFG India Credit branch.