The sub-₹15-lakh electric-car bracket is about to get a lot more crowded. Beyond the cars you can already buy today, a wave of new models is expected through 2026 — some launching right under the ₹15 lakh ceiling, others hovering just above it before discounts and base trims pull them in. This guide rounds up the upcoming electric cars under ₹15 lakh in India for 2026, with honest notes on what is confirmed and what is still an estimate. For the cars on sale right now, see our companion guide to the best electric cars under ₹15 lakh.
One big caveat up front: every price for an unlaunched car below is an industry estimate, not an official figure. Carmakers routinely reveal final prices only at launch, and they can land higher or lower than expected. Treat the numbers as a planning guide and confirm the real ex-showroom and on-road price with a dealer before you commit.
Already launched and under ₹15 lakh: Mahindra XUV 3XO EV
Worth saying first because it changes the conversation: the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV is already on sale, with the AX5 from about ₹13.89 lakh and the top AX7L around ₹14.96 lakh — both genuinely under ₹15 lakh ex-showroom. If you want a feature-loaded compact electric SUV in this budget and do not want to wait, this is the benchmark the upcoming cars will be measured against.
Hyundai Inster EV — the most anticipated entrant
The Hyundai Inster EV is the car most buyers in this bracket are waiting for. Expected to arrive around late 2026, it is widely reported to be priced in the region of ₹10–13 lakh, with a base trim likely near ₹11–12 lakh. That would put its lower variants comfortably under ₹15 lakh and squarely against the Tata Punch EV. Hyundai's reputation for fit, finish and service network could make it an instant shortlist car — but again, the price is an expectation, not a confirmed figure.
Tata Altroz EV — straddling the line
Tata is expected to electrify its premium hatchback as the Altroz EV, with estimates in the ₹12–15 lakh range and a claimed range around 300 km. Lower trims should fall under ₹15 lakh while the top variants flirt with or cross it. If it arrives as expected, it would give buyers a more upmarket hatchback alternative to the Tiago EV without leaving the bracket entirely.
Citroen Basalt EV — only the base under the line
The Citroen Basalt EV, an electric version of the coupe-SUV, is estimated to span roughly ₹14–17 lakh. On those numbers, only the base variant would stay under ₹15 lakh, with higher trims stepping above it. Citroen's India timing for this model is still uncertain, so treat it as a longer-shot option rather than a near-term buy.
Budget contenders: Leapmotor T03 and VinFast VF5
Two newer brands could shake up the entry end. The Leapmotor T03 is expected around ₹8–12 lakh, and the VinFast VF5 around ₹10–12 lakh — both well under ₹15 lakh if they launch at those estimates. As fresh entrants, they bring uncertainty on service networks and resale, so weigh the lower price against an established brand's after-sales reach before deciding.
Expected, but likely above ₹15 lakh: Tata Sierra EV and Kia Syros EV
Two high-profile 2026 launches probably will not make this list. The Tata Sierra EV and the Kia Syros EV are both expected during the year, but current expectations place them at or above ₹15 lakh — so they belong in the next bracket up unless a base variant surprises us on price.
At a glance: upcoming sub-₹15-lakh EVs (estimates)
| Model | Estimated price | Expected timing | Under ₹15 lakh? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra XUV 3XO EV | ₹13.89–14.96 lakh | On sale now | Yes (whole range) |
| Hyundai Inster EV | ~₹10–13 lakh (base ~₹11–12) | Late 2026 (expected) | Lower trims likely |
| Tata Altroz EV | ~₹12–15 lakh | 2026 (expected) | Straddles the line |
| Citroen Basalt EV | ~₹14–17 lakh | Uncertain | Base only |
| Leapmotor T03 | ~₹8–12 lakh | 2026 (expected) | Likely |
| VinFast VF5 | ~₹10–12 lakh | 2026 (expected) | Likely |
All prices above are indicative ex-showroom estimates for unlaunched cars — verify the final figure with a dealer at launch. Browse everything on sale today in our electric car catalog, and put any two models head to head with the EV comparison tool.
Should you wait, or buy now?
If your heart is set on the Hyundai Inster EV and you can wait until late 2026, it may well be worth holding out. But "upcoming" prices have a habit of arriving higher than estimates, and every month you wait is a month of petrol bills. If a car already on sale — like the XUV 3XO EV, Tata Punch EV or Nexon EV — fits your needs, buying now and locking in today's running-cost savings is often the smarter move. Estimate the EMI on whatever you choose with the EV EMI calculator, and check what your state offers in our state-by-state subsidy and road-tax guide before you sign anything.
FAQ
Which upcoming electric cars will cost under ₹15 lakh in India?+
When is the Hyundai Inster EV launching in India?+
Is the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV already on sale under ₹15 lakh?+
Will the Tata Sierra EV or Kia Syros EV be under ₹15 lakh?+
We refresh this guide as each new model goes on sale and as official prices replace estimates, so bookmark it. In the meantime, compare what is available today in the catalog and read up on what an EV really costs to own in India.