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How to calculate the Total cost of Ownership for E-Scooters

H. Karan Kumar

Updated on Sept 19, 2023 | 6 min read

Thinking of joining the e-scooter revolution? While they offer convenience and eco-friendliness, understanding the actual cost is crucial. Enter the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), your guide to uncovering the hidden expenses beyond the initial purchase price. Let’s explore how to calculate your e-scooter TCO!

Steps to calculate the Total cost of Ownership for E-Scooters

Step 1: Initial Costs

  • Purchase Price: Start with the base price of the e-scooter. Research different models and consider features like range, battery capacity, and motor power that impact price.
  • Taxes and Licensing: Factor in any registration fees, sales taxes, and licensing costs specific to your region.
  • Accessories: Helmets, locks, phone mounts, and storage bags add up. Include planned accessories in your budget.
  • Financing: If opting for a loan or payment plan, account for interest rates and additional fees.

Step 2: Operating Costs

  • Charging: Calculate your estimated electricity cost per charge based on local rates and battery capacity. Consider home charging installation costs if needed.
  • Maintenance: Include regular servicing, tire replacements, and potential repairs. Research manufacturer recommendations and average costs.
  • Insurance: While not mandatory everywhere, e-scooter insurance is recommended for accidents and theft. Compare options and choose a suitable coverage plan.

Step 3: Additional Considerations

  • Depreciation: E-scooters, like any vehicle, depreciate in value over time. Estimate the residual value after your planned ownership period.
  • Parking and Tolls: Factor in any parking fees or toll charges applicable to your riding habits.
  • Public Transportation Savings: If replacing car trips with your e-scooter, add potential savings on public transportation costs.

Total cost of ownership of Ola S1 Pro:

Assumptions:

  • Usage: Monthly commute of 1500 km (round trip)
  • Ownership period: 5 years
  • Charging at home, average electricity rate: ₹8/kWh

Step 1: Initial Costs

  • Purchase Price (Gurugram, ex-showroom): ₹1,47,499
  • RTO charges and registration: ₹10,000
  • Insurance: ₹10,600
  • Helmet and lock: ₹2,000
  • Total Initial Cost: ₹1,70,099

Step 2: Operating Costs

  • Battery capacity: 4 kWh
  • Estimated range per charge: 140 km
  • Monthly charging cost: (1500 km/140 km) * 4 kWh * ₹8/kWh ≈ ₹342
  • Annual charging cost: ₹342/month * 12 = ₹4110
  • Annual maintenance cost (as per Ola): ₹255
  • Annual insurance cost (estimated): ₹2,000
  • Total Operating cost for 5 years: 6365*5 = ₹31,825

Step 3: TCO Calculation

  • Total annual cost = Initial cost + Operating cost
  • = ₹1,70,099+ ₹31,825
  • = ₹2,01,934
  • Monthly TCO (rounded): 2,01,934 / 60 = ₹3,365

Therefore, the estimated monthly TCO for owning an Ola S1 Pro Gen 2 in Gurugram with the given assumptions is around ₹3,365.

Conclusion:

So, this was the TCO of Ola S1 Pro, but you’ve now got a template for calculating the Total Cost of Ownership for any EV. However, it’s different for calculations about the electric car, and we’ll be posting about the electric car soon.