
How To Find Best Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in India?
Electric vehicle charging stations in India already became one of the most searched things in EV space. As more drivers switch to models like Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, and Mahindra BE 6, the biggest question they face is: where can I charge my car quickly, safely, and affordably?
From home wall boxes to DC fast chargers on highways, India’s charging ecosystem is expanding rapidly. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about finding the best EV charging stations in India including costs, apps, business opportunities, and FAQs.
What are the different types of EV charging stations in India?
Charging stations in India come in three main categories:
- Slow AC charging (Level 1 & Level 2): Using a 3.3–7 kW wall box or socket, this is the most common form for home or office charging. It takes 6–8 hours to fully charge a typical EV like the Nexon EV.
- Fast AC charging (Level 2 advanced): Between 11–22 kW, used in workplaces and malls, taking around 3–5 hours for a full charge.
- DC fast charging (Level 3): With 30–150 kW output, this is the highway solution. A 50 kW charger can bring your EV from 20% to 80% in under an hour.
Understanding these types helps owners choose where to charge depending on their daily routine.
How much It Takes to charge an electric car in India?
One of the biggest EV myths is that charging is “always free.” In reality, the cost varies by location:
- Home charging: ₹8–₹10 per kWh (state electricity tariffs). A full charge of Tata Nexon EV (30.2 kWh battery) costs about ₹350–₹450.
- Public AC charging: ₹12–₹18 per kWh.
- Public DC fast charging: ₹18–₹25 per kWh. For larger batteries (50 kWh+), a full charge may cost ₹800–₹1,200.
Despite these costs, EVs remain 70–80% cheaper per km compared to petrol or diesel cars.
Which apps can help you find EV charging stations nearby?
To make EV driving stress-free, India now has a network of apps that map charging stations:
- Tata Power EZ Charge – It’s one of the largest charging network.
- Statiq – Rapidly expanding with 7,000+ stations, integrates UPI payment.
- ChargeZone – Focuses on highways and fleet charging.
- BluSmart – Primarily for taxis, but app users can locate stations.
These apps not only show nearby chargers but also availability, cost, and charger type (AC/DC). They are must-have tools for every EV driver.
Can you install a charging station at home, and what does it cost?
Yes, home charging is the backbone of EV adoption.
- Wall box chargers (3.3–7 kW) cost between ₹10,000–₹70,000.
- Installation may cost another ₹10,000–₹30,000 depending on wiring upgrades.
- Some automakers (Tata, MG, Hyundai) offer free home chargers with vehicle purchase.
If you live in an apartment, society approvals may be required. Guidelines under MoHUA’s EV policy draft are pushing for mandatory apartment parking EV points.
What are the Top business opportunities Connected With EV charging station franchises?
EV charging isn’t just about usage, it’s also an entrepreneurial opportunity.
- In general, setting the DC fast charging station costs around ₹30–₹50 lakh, which mainly depends on the requirement of equipment.
- Many companies like Tata Power, Statiq, and Fortum offer franchise/partnership models.
- Government also provide subsidies associated with the vehicle chargers.
Franchise owners earn through per-unit charging fees and value-added services (cafés, parking).
What challenges do EV drivers face with charging in India?
Despite progress, challenges exist:
- Limited fast-charging coverage outside metros.
- Charger downtime – poor maintenance leads to failed sessions.
- App fragmentation – users often need 3–4 apps for different networks.
- Apartment charging – not yet standardized across cities.
Still, with 2,877 public charging stations sanctioned by July 2025, expansion is happening at record pace.
What Could Be The future of EV charging in India?
The future looks bright:
- Battery swapping pilots by Ola Electric and Sun Mobility.
- Ultra-fast chargers (350 kW) planned for highways.
- Smart charging with solar integration in housing complexes.
- Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, turning EVs into energy storage for the grid.
These innovations will reduce charging time, cost, and environmental impact.
FAQs
1. Is charging an EV at home safe?
Yes, when done with certified equipment. Avoid using basic 15A sockets daily, as they can overheat.
2. Can I charge an EV in an apartment building?
Yes, if society and DISCOM approve. New rules are making EV-ready parking mandatory in upcoming projects.
3. How long does it take to charge an EV?
Slow AC: 6–8 hours.
Fast AC: 3–5 hours.
DC fast: 30–60 minutes (to 80%).
4. Are there free EV charging stations in India?
Yes, some malls, hotels, and automaker showrooms provide free charging as a perk.
5. What’s the best app to locate charging stations?
Tata Power EZ Charge and Statiq are currently the most reliable and widely available.