Bhubaneswar: The state capital has emerged as the fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) market in the country, marking an impressive 84% year-on-year (YoY) growth in registrations between May 2025 and May 2026, according to a pan-India survey conducted by a Gurgaon-based auto-tech major.According to the latest survey, released recently, the state capital outperformed several major cities, with Gurgaon recording 75% growth and Jaipur 72%. Agra, Patna and Ludhiana also figured among the fastest-growing EV markets, each witnessing more than 50% annual growth.The report points to a significant shift in India’s EV landscape, with Tier-II and smaller cities emerging as key drivers of adoption. The EV search interest in these cities is growing nearly three times faster than in Tier-I cities, as per the report. This, according to industry experts, signals a broader acceptance of electric mobility.According to the study, the number of consumers researching EVs exclusively increased by 60% over the past year, reflecting a growing EV-first mindset among buyers.Bhubaneswar’s strong performance is particularly notable as charging infrastructure in many emerging EV markets is still developing. “Bhubaneswar’s growing EV ecosystem is aided by favourable state policies, particularly the recently unveiled EV Policy 2.0. Availability of charging stations and rising environmental awareness among consumers are contributing to the city’s rapid adoption of EVs,” Mohit Poddar, manager of a city-based dealer, said.The survey also found that consumer preferences are shifting towards larger and more feature-rich EVs. The e-SUVs now account for 82.5% of total EV consideration on the platform, recording a 30.8% annual increase, while hatchbacks make up around 11% of demand.“Rising fuel prices appear to have accelerated interest in electric mobility. During periods of fuel-price concerns, EV buy-intent enquiries rose by 51% and stayed 38% above normal levels even after prices stabilised. This indicates sustained consumer confidence in EVs,” chief executive officer of the auto-tech company Mayank Jain said.The report revealed that buyers are becoming increasingly conscious of ownership costs. Searches related to EV mileage calculations surged by 242% in May 2026, suggesting that consumers are paying closer attention to running costs and driving range before deciding to buy.
