State sees rise in bookings for electric vehicles

BENGALURU: The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having a ripple effect on the world, and Karnataka is no exception. The rising fuel prices and scarcity of petrol, diesel, and CNG have led to a surge in demand for electric vehicles (EVs). As a result, EV sales and bookings have seen a significant spike in the past month.

According to data, 28,765 EVs were registered in the state between March 1-31, taking the total number of EVs on the roads to 7,56,637. People are increasingly opting for EVs, which were once met with skepticism.

The Karnataka Motor Vehicles Taxation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposes to impose taxes on EVs, with rates ranging from 5 per cent for vehicles costing up to Rs 10 lakh and 8 per cent for those between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 25 lakh. This has led to a rush among buyers to book EVs before prices rise.

The conflict has accelerated the shift towards eco-friendly transportation, with people embracing EVs as a viable alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. The trend is expected to continue, driven by growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable transportation solutions.