E-Rickshaw Battery Costs: What You Need to Know

The electric rickshaw industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, becoming an essential mode of urban transportation in highly populated places.

As the number of electric rickshaws has grown, it has become necessary to ensure their efficiency and dependability, particularly in terms of battery performance and lifespan. 

Battery replacement is a critical aspect in deciding the overall cost of ownership and operational efficiency of these vehicles.

Understanding the costs of battery replacement is critical for making right purchasing decisions and controlling long-term operating expenses.

This article will examine what affects battery replacement costs for electric rickshaws, general cost trends, replacement costs for popular brands, and battery prices from the top four suppliers.

Factors Influencing Battery Replacement Cost in E-Rickshaws

Battery Replacement Cost in E-Rickshaws depends on the following factors:

Battery Type: The replacement cost can differ depending on whether the battery is lead-acid or lithium-ion. Lithium-ion batteries usually cost more but last longer and perform better.

Battery Capacity: Batteries with higher capacity, which provide longer driving ranges, are more expensive. The cost is often based on the battery’s kilowatt-hour (kWh) rating.

Brand and Quality: Well-known battery brands generally charge more due to their use of superior materials, longer warranties, and established reliability. The quality of the battery greatly impacts its price.

Installation and Labor Costs: The cost to install a new battery can vary depending on the service provider and location. Additional charges may apply for any extra parts or modifications required during installation.

E-Rickshaw Battery Replacement Price in India

1. Battery Types and Costs

48-Volt Lithium-Ion Battery (40-50 Ah)

• Price Range: Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000
• Suitable for most standard e-rickshaws

Higher Capacity Batteries (60-70 Ah)

• Price: Approximately Rs. 50,000 or higher
• Ideal for e-rickshaws covering longer distances

2. Factors Affecting Cost

• Capacity: Higher capacity batteries cost more but provide a longer range.
• Brand: Well-known brands may charge a premium but offer reliable quality and support.
• Quality: Higher quality batteries typically come with better warranties and after-sales service.

3. Regional Variations

• Prices may vary depending on the supplier and the state.

Also Read: Top 3 E-Rickshaws in India for Maximum Performance

Best lithium-ion battery providers for electric rickshaws

Now, let's compare the battery prices of the top four lithium-ion battery vendors for electric three-wheelers.

Exide Industries

Exide Industries is a major player in India's electric three-wheeler industry. This company offers both lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. Their lead-acid batteries are available in 48V and 60V formats, with capacities ranging from 100 Ah to 120 Ah, making them ideal for regular metropolitan commutes.

Exide's lithium-ion batteries range in capacity from roughly 35 Ah to 200 Ah and are available in 48V to 60V variants. These lithium-ion batteries cost from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 20,000 or more, depending on the specs. The company also offers strong after-sales assistance for its products.

Amara Raja Batteries

Amara Raja provides lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries for electric three-wheelers. Amara Raja Batteries is a top Indian battery company known for its revolutionary energy storage solutions. 

Established in 1985, the company has a significant presence in the automotive and industrial battery markets. Amara Raja has made tremendous advancements in the electric vehicle industry, particularly with its innovative battery technology.

Their lithium-ion batteries come in 48V to 60V formats, with capacities ranging from about 40 Ah to 150 Ah. Prices for these batteries range from 5,000 to 55,000 or more, depending on the specs. These batteries are known for their dependability, high energy density, and efficient operation.

Eveready Industries

Founded in 1934, Eveready Industries is a key player in the battery market. They offer lithium-ion batteries for e-rickshaws in 36V 60Ah and 73.6V 42Ah range. The company has a 46% market share in dry cell batteries and 85% in flashlights, with main manufacturing facilities in Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Lucknow.

These batteries have higher capacity and performance than lead-acid batteries. Price depending on the quality and order quantity.

Okaya Power

Okaya Power is a well-known Indian company that provides a diverse range of energy storage solutions, including lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries for electric three-wheelers in India.

The company is well-known for its emphasis on innovation and quality, as well as its extensive after-sales support network. Okaya Power lithium-ion batteries for electric three-wheelers come in 48V to 60V formats and capacities ranging from 40 Ah to 150 Ah. 

Prices normally range between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 35,000 or more, depending on the arrangement. These batteries are well known for their high energy efficiency, long cycle life, and quick charging capabilities.

Livguard E-Rickshaw Batteries

Livguard is one of the top E-Rickshaw battery manufacturers in India, known for boosting the performance of E-Rickshaws with reliable and robust batteries. These batteries are easy to maintain, simple to handle, and offer longer run times on a single charge.

The Livguard E-shakti series includes lead-acid batteries available in 100Ah and 120Ah variants, providing a range of 90 to 110 km per charge. The series includes both flat plate and tubular plate batteries.

The 100Ah flat plate batteries, ERFP 1500 and 1550, come with a 6-month warranty and start at Rs 8,500. The 120Ah tubular batteries, ERTU 1800, are specifically designed for E-Rickshaws and come with a 9-month warranty.

In addition to lead-acid batteries, Livguard offers 48V, 85Ah Lithium-ion LFP batteries with a 3-year warranty. These batteries feature advanced technology like smart BMS, IoT, cloud capability, and thermal management, ensuring reliable performance, faster charging times, and extended battery life.

Tata Green E-Rickshaw Batteries

The battery was developed with innovative Japanese technology to deliver the best mileage. Sawaree has the highest distance of 120kms on a single charge on flat roads. The 12V, 100Ah lithium-ion batteries are long-lasting and come with a 6-month warranty. 

The active material in batteries has more carbon for better charge uptake, resulting in a completely charged battery in 9.4 hours. They cost around Rs 9400, which is relatively affordable for that genre.

Each of these suppliers offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets, ensuring that you can find a suitable battery for your electric rickshaw.

Technical Instructions for E-Rickshaw Battery Maintenance

Check Battery Electrolyte

• Inspect the battery electrolyte every 15-20 days.

Maintain Battery Fluid Levels

• Avoid using the battery in a dry state. Always refill with distilled water to prevent damage to the battery.

Monitor Charging Current

• Ensure that the charging current does not exceed the rated Ampere.

Rotate Batteries

• Rotate the batteries every 3 months, following this sequence: 1+2+3+4 to 4+3+2+1.

Use Correct Wiring

• Connect the batteries with wires that are 8-10 mm in thickness.

Check Tyre Air Pressure

• Maintain air pressure in the tires according to standard norms.

Avoid Overloading

• Do not overload the e-rickshaw to ensure its proper functioning.

Turn Off Electrical Components

• Turn off lights, music, and other electrical components when exiting the e-rickshaw. Avoid leaving the battery unused for extended periods.

Secure Battery Clamps

• Always fasten the clamps securely to the appropriate battery poles.

Also Read: E-Rickshaws on the Rise: What You Need to Know About Battery Costs

CMV360 Says

Choosing the right battery for an electric rickshaw is key to managing costs and ensuring reliable performance. Lithium-ion batteries, though pricier upfront, generally last longer and perform better than lead-acid batteries. 

While they can be more expensive, their longer lifespan and efficiency often lead to savings over time. It’s important to consider the type of battery, its capacity, and the costs of installation when making a decision. Opting for quality batteries from trusted brands can boost the rickshaw’s reliability and help control long-term expenses.