Mangaluru: As fuel prices continue to climb due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, electric vehicle (EV) dealers across Dakshina Kannada are reporting a sharp increase in customer enquiries and bookings, particularly for electric scooters and passenger autorickshaws. Dealers attribute this trend to growing uncertainty over fuel costs, which is prompting many consumers to seriously consider EVs. However, supply chain disruptions are still affecting vehicle availability and production.
Surge in Enquiries and Bookings
Shivaprasad AS, manager of Bajaj Chetak in Dakshina Kannada, stated that customer enquiries have nearly tripled in recent weeks. Despite this, supply chain issues are limiting stock availability. Retail sales in April stood at around 117 units, and so far this month, the dealership has received 115 retail bookings.
An executive from Vida Electric reported a 10% to 20% increase in sales and enquiries this month. The executive noted that the recent fuel price rise has significantly boosted customer interest in EVs, although production constraints linked to supply chain challenges remain a hurdle. If production improves, sales are expected to increase further.
Similarly, an executive from the River showroom in Kulur observed nearly a 10% rise in enquiries along with improved sales performance. The impact is also evident in the four-wheeler segment. Harshavardhan Bangera, manager of Auto Matrix Tata Motors dealers, highlighted a notable increase in interest among EV-focused customers, while even buyers visiting for conventional fuel vehicles are now exploring electric options. Enquiries have risen by nearly 20% compared to last month following the fuel price hike. As of May 23, the dealership has received more than 70 bookings. Good EV adoption is also seen in Puttur, Bantwal, and Moodubidire.
Bangera pointed out that showroom sales in rural areas are generally lower as many customers prefer purchasing vehicles in the city. While bookings in Bantwal are comparatively lower, Puttur alone has recorded around 20 to 25 EV bookings this month.
Varied Responses Across Dealerships
Not all dealerships are witnessing a dramatic spike. Harsha from Advaith Hyundai said enquiries have remained steady as the company currently offers only one EV model priced between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 27 lakh. Jayaprakash from ARM Kia described enquiries as average at present but suggested that the removal of state road tax on EVs could encourage more buyers to switch to electric mobility.
Rising Demand for Electric Autorickshaws
Demand for electric passenger autorickshaws has also increased across the district. Anil from Supreme Bajaj reported that enquiries for Bajaj electric three-wheeler passenger autos have risen by around 20% compared to February. Demand from rural parts of Dakshina Kannada has also increased, while retail sales of EV passenger autos have gone up by nearly 15%.
Meanwhile, an executive from a TVS branch in the city said bookings for electric three-wheelers remain average, though customer enquiries have shown a strong upward trend.
