The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India is accelerating, and two of the biggest hurdles for potential buyers—range anxiety and long charging times—are rapidly being addressed. While home charging overnight is convenient, the ability to quickly top up your car's battery on a long journey is a game-changer. This is where DC fast charging comes in.
DC (Direct Current) fast chargers can replenish an EV's battery from 10% to 80% in under an hour, making road trips and quick top-ups genuinely feasible. The great news? You no longer need to spend a fortune to access this technology.
Here’s our curated list of the top 5 fast-charging electric cars you can buy in India for under Rs.20 lakhs (ex-showroom).
1. Mahindra XUV400 Pro
Topping our list is the powerhouse from Mahindra. The XUV400 not only boasts impressive performance but also leads the pack in charging speed within this segment. It's the perfect choice for those who want speed both on the road and at the charging station.
Why it’s a top pick: With a claimed 0-80% charging time of just 50 minutes on a 50kW DC charger, the XUV400 is the undisputed champion of quick top-ups in its class. Coupled with its thrilling acceleration and spacious cabin, it offers a compelling package for the modern EV buyer.
2. Tata Nexon EV (Long Range)
The car that truly kickstarted India's EV mainstream adoption, the Tata Nexon EV, remains a formidable contender. In its updated Long Range (LR) avatar, it combines a proven track record with excellent features and robust charging capabilities.
Why it’s a top pick: While slightly behind the XUV400 in charging time, the Nexon EV’s 56-minute top-up is incredibly practical. Its widespread popularity means excellent service support, and the feature-rich interior, including a large infotainment screen and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) technology, makes it a fantastic all-rounder.
3. Citroen eC3
Citroen entered the Indian EV market with a focus on its core strength: comfort. The eC3 stands out by offering a plush, magic-carpet-like ride quality, but it doesn't skimp on essential fast-charging capabilities either.
Why it’s a top pick: Don't let the smaller battery pack fool you. The Citroen eC3's charging time of 57 minutes is on par with the segment leader. This makes it an excellent city car that is perfectly capable of handling occasional highway trips. If ride comfort and cabin space are your priorities, the eC3 is a unique and worthy choice.
4. Tata Tiago EV (Long Range)
The Tata Tiago EV made electric mobility accessible to the masses. As India's most affordable mainstream EV, its inclusion of DC fast charging is a massive value proposition, making it a smart buy for first-time EV owners.
Why it’s a top pick: Getting from 10% to 80% in under an hour in a car that costs around ₹10 lakhs is revolutionary. The Tiago EV is perfect for urban commutes and weekend getaways. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through city traffic, while its fast-charging ability ensures you're never stranded for long.
5. Tata Tigor EV
The sibling to the Tiago EV, the Tata Tigor EV, offers all the same benefits but in a more premium compact sedan body style. It provides a larger boot and a more "big car" feel while retaining excellent charging credentials.
Why it’s a top pick: Clocking in at just under an hour for a 10-80% charge, the Tigor EV is a practical and stylish choice. It’s the only electric sedan in this price bracket, making it unique. For those who prefer the classic three-box design and need more luggage space than a hatchback, the Tigor EV is the perfect fit.
Conclusion
The Indian EV market has matured significantly, and fast charging is no longer a feature reserved for high-end luxury vehicles. Cars like the Mahindra XUV400 and Tata Nexon EV prove that rapid charging and long-range capabilities are now available to the mainstream buyer.
When choosing your EV, consider not just the charging time but also the charging infrastructure available on your frequent routes. With charging networks expanding daily, owning one of these fast-charging EVs is more practical and exciting than ever before.
