Petrol-based vehicles, especially two-wheelers, have been our affordable transportation companions, helping us get from one destination to another for a long time. Over the years, carbon emissions from fuel burning have harmed the environment. Moreover, it has led to depletion in our fuel reserves. It has further led to a widening gap between demand and supply, increasing fuel prices. Thus, our hunt for alternative sources of energy began.
Over the last few years, many new-age companies including Hero MotoCorp have launched their electric offerings, making electric two-wheelers easily accessible. However, that raises the question – is an electric scooter or bike better than a petrol one? For this analysis, it's crucial to understand the electric scooters vs petrol scooters comparison and make an informed decision before applying for bike finance from Hero FinCorp.
Electric Scooter
Electric scooters are two-wheelers powered by electric motors. Apt for short-distance travel, they provide great alternatives to petrol-powered scooters due to being more convenient and eco-friendlier. They run on batteries that recharge through electricity, eliminating the need for carbon-emitting fuel. They are compact, lightweight, and noise-free, making them ideal options for navigating around the city.
Petrol Scooter
Petrol scooters are two-wheelers that use petrol as their fuel source. These have been a common mode of transportation for decades, offering an efficient and convenient way to cover short to medium journeys. They have a petrol-powered engine that starts when you fill petrol in its fuel tank. When you turn the ignition key, a spark starts the vehicle, and you steer it using the handlebars.
Major Differences Between Electric Scooters and Petrol Scooters
Let’s explore the differences between electric and petrol scooter:
Parameters
Electric Scooter
Petrol Scooter
Power Source
Powered by a rechargeable battery that runs on electricity
Consist of a combustion engine fuelled by petrol
Emissions
Zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and air pollution
Emit exhaust fumes that cause air pollution and deteriorate air quality
Noise
The quieter operation gives a noise-free riding experience
The combustion engine generates noise, making the ride louder and more disruptive
Speed and Range
Limited speed and range depending on the battery capacity
Longer ranges and higher top speeds due to larger fuel tanks
Pricing
Run on electricity, which is cheaper than petrol
High petrol prices make them expensive to operate
Fuel Cost
Same mileage at around 15% of the petrol cost
Higher range, but consumes more petrol for the same distance
Refuelling Facilities
A limited number of charging stations, making them less suitable for long distances, especially on highways
Petrol stations are widely present every few km
Maintenance
Relatively fewer maintenance needs
Need regular servicing and replacement of the worn-out mechanical parts
Refuelling Time
Takes a few hours to recharge completely
Gets refuelled within seconds
Safety
Negligible risk of fire and explosion
Higher risk of fire and explosion due to combustible fuel and sparks inside
Pros and Cons of Electric Scooters
Here are the Pros and Cons of Electric Scooters:
Pros
Cons
Environment-friendly due to no emissions and harmful pollutants
Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
More suitable for noise-sensitive and urban areas due to quieter operation
Very low maintenance needs with no tune-ups and oil changes
Lower operating costs due to cheaper electricity prices than petrol
Limited range
Suitable for local trips and shorter commutes only
Slower acceleration
Lower top speed
Fewer charging stations
Charging takes longer than filling the tank with petrol in a petrol scooter
Pros and Cons of Petrol Scooters
Here are the Pros and Cons of Petrol Scooters:
Pros
Cons
Long range
Suitable for long commutes
Faster trips with faster acceleration and higher top speeds
Readily available
Widely accessible petrol stations
Lower upfront cost
Fuel combustion emits harmful pollutants to cause climate change and air pollution
Noisy operation, especially at high speeds
More maintenance needs, including regular tune-ups and oil changes
Requires Petrol to operate, increasing the running costs
Which Is Better for You, Electric Scooter or Petrol Scooter?
Picking between an electric or petrol scooter is a personal decision based on your finances, daily travel requirements, and other crucial factors, as mentioned below:
Financial Aspect
Electric scooters are more expensive to buy than petrol scooters. The lithium-ion battery is costlier, affecting the scooter's overall price. However, with lower maintenance and operational costs, you can buy an electric bike on loan from Hero FinCorp to save money later.
Operational Requirements
Electric scooters need to recharge before you can ride them. Since the electric vehicle (EV) segment is still in its initial stages in India, you may not find charging stations as widely available as petrol stations. Therefore, when considering petrol vs electric scooters, electric versions are more feasible if you live in an urban area with many charging stations. When it comes to rural areas, they still need the infrastructure to address your charging needs.
Maintenance Needs
If you are looking for a low-maintenance vehicle with fewer visits for repair and maintenance, an electric scooter would be an apt choice. However, if anything goes wrong, repairing a petrol scooter and replacing its spare parts is much easier and cheaper than an electric scooter. So, consider this factor when comparing electric bikes vs petrol bikes.
Choosing between electric and petrol scooters depends on factors like cost, convenience, and environmental impact. Each option offers unique benefits suited to different preferences and needs.
Aspect
Electric Scooter
Petrol Scooter
Cost of Fuel
Lower (electricity costs vs petrol prices)
Higher (petrol costs)
Initial Cost
Higher due to battery and technology
Lower (typically)
Maintenance
Lower (fewer moving parts, no oil changes)
Higher (regular servicing, oil changes)
Environmental Impact
Zero emissions, eco-friendly
Emits CO2 and pollutants
Noise Levels
Quieter operation
Noisier engine
Range
Varies (typically lower than petrol)
Longer range per tank
Charging Time
Longer (hours for full charge)
Quick (minutes to fill up fuel)
Government Incentives
Available (subsidies, incentives)
Limited (varies by region)
Convenience
Limited charging infrastructure
Widely available fuel stations
How Personal Loan Help You Finance the Best Electric Scooter or Petrol Bike
A Personal loan makes it easier to finance the best electric scooter or petrol bike, offering flexible terms and manageable EMIs to suit your financial needs.
Keep your savings intact: Secure a loan without dipping into your savings.
Ample loan amount: Access up to Rs 5 Lakh to purchase your desired bike.
Distribute the bike’s cost into EMIs: Spread out payments into manageable monthly instalments.
Ability to buy a costlier model with desired features: Choose a bike with advanced features without financial strain.
Flexible repayment tenures: Enjoy repayment periods of up to 36 months.
Competitive interest rates: Benefit from rates starting at 21% per annum.
Quick processing and approval: Experience fast and hassle-free loan approval.
Steps to Apply for a Personal Loan for Buying an Electric Scooter or Petrol Bike
Applying for a Personal Loan can help finance your spine surgery. Here's a simplified approach:
Step 5- Wait for the verification process to complete.
Step 6- Accept the loan offer and get disbursal in a short period.
Conclusion
Buying a new scooter can be an exciting yet challenging experience. However, consider the differences and pros and cons between electric and petrol scooters to make an informed decision. The key is to choose a scooter that caters to your commuting needs and matches your personal preferences and budget. Take time researching, selecting the right scooter, and applying for bike finance from Hero FinCorp to make the purchase smoothly.
Disclaimer: Hero FinCorp Bikes Finance is available for Hero MotoCorp two-wheelers only. You can take a Personal Loan with the best interest rates for other brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are electric scooters better than petrol?
Both electric and petrol scooters have pros and cons. The final choice depends on various factors that affect your affordability, maintenance visits, refuelling accessibility, etc.
2. Which Activa is better electric or petrol?
The electric version is better than the petrol one for many reasons, including lower maintenance costs, eco-friendlier operation, cheaper electricity rates, etc.
3. Which bike is good electric or petrol?
While both bike types have pros and cons, electric bikes are the new-age vehicles offering eco-friendlier commutes, cheaper operational costs, and chic looks.
4. What is the life of an electric scooter?
The life of an electric scooter differs between models. If you replace the batteries on time and follow recommended charging practices, it might last up to 5 years.
5. Which is cost efficient electric scooter or petrol scooter?
While electric scooters may have a higher purchase price, they are more cost-efficient in the long run due to cheaper electricity prices and lower maintenance needs.
Katyaini is a finance expert with a focus on the non-banking financial sector, bringing over 8 years of experience in NBFC. She specializes in simplifying complex financial concepts for readers, helping them navigate the NBFC landscape. Outside of work, she is passionate about travelling.
