CarDekho said EV search interest in Tier-II and smaller cities is growing nearly three times faster than in Tier-I markets.The number of Indian consumers researching only electric vehicles (EVs) has risen by 60 per cent year-on-year, while those researching only internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have declined by 14 per cent, signalling a steady shift in buyer preferences, according to insights released by CarDekho Group.
The findings, based on industry data and proprietary platform insights from May 2025 to May 2026, indicate that EV demand is broadening beyond metro cities and is increasingly driven by value-conscious, informed buyers.
CarDekho said EV search interest in Tier-II and smaller cities is growing nearly three times faster than in Tier-I markets. Bhubaneswar recorded the highest growth in EV research activity at 84 per cent, followed by Gurugram (75 per cent) and Jaipur (72 per cent). Agra, Patna and Ludhiana also registered more than 50 per cent year-on-year growth in EV searches.
The platform also reported a shift in consumer preferences towards larger vehicles, with SUVs accounting for 82.5 per cent of total EV consideration, registering 30.8 per cent annual growth. Hatchbacks accounted for about 11 per cent of EV consideration.
According to the data, rising fuel prices have also influenced buying intent. EV purchase enquiries increased 51 per cent during periods of elevated fuel prices and remained 38 per cent higher even after prices stabilised, suggesting sustained consumer interest beyond short-term fuel cost concerns.
Consumer research is also becoming more ownership-focused, with searches related to EV mileage calculations surging 242 per cent in May 2026 as buyers increasingly evaluate real-world running costs and driving range before making purchase decisions.
The company said the findings suggest India’s EV market is entering a new phase of growth, characterised by wider geographic adoption and more informed consumer decision-making.
