Rickshaws are our lifelines. They help people travel every day and give work to thousands of drivers and their families. For many years, drivers had only one option: the auto rickshaw.
Today, there is a new choice: the e rickshaw. One runs on petrol or diesel, the other runs on battery. Both have their good points and their problems.
The real question is which one fits your daily work, your routes, and your income better. Let’s look at the difference between an e rickshaw and an auto rickshaw and understand what works best for drivers today.
Meet the E Rickshaw: Quiet, Clean, and Cost-Saving
An e rickshaw is a three-wheeler powered by a battery instead of petrol or diesel. It carries passengers, goods, or both. The biggest advantage? You don’t spend a fortune on fuel. Just plug it in overnight, and it’s ready by morning. That’s the e rickshaw charging time (usually 6-8 hours) depending on the battery size.
E rickshaws are also surprisingly easy to drive, even for beginners. They’re quiet, smooth, and kind to traffic-heavy streets where petrol autos struggle with stops and starts.
Auto Rickshaw: The Old Workhorse of Indian Streets
The auto rickshaw is familiar to everyone, it is loud, fast, and sometimes chaotic. It runs on petrol or diesel and can carry 3-4 passengers easily.
But there are problems. Fuel costs are high and rising every year. Repairs and maintenance eat into your income. And let’s face it, autos are noisy, and sometimes driving them feels like wrestling a stubborn machine in city traffic.
Autos are tried and tested, yes, but they are becoming expensive and stressful to maintain.
Counting the Cost: E Rickshaw Price vs Auto Rickshaw Expenses
Let’s talk numbers. Prices have gone up slightly due to better batteries, but you still have choices depending on your budget.
- E-Rickshaw Price: These still start around ₹80,000 – ₹1,10,000 (mostly with Lead-Acid batteries).
- Branded/Quality Models: These range from ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,70,000 (usually with Lithium-Ion or heavy-duty bodies).
- Auto Rickshaw (CNG/Diesel) Price: Most new models now cost between ₹2,20,000 and ₹3,20,000 because of modern engine standards (BS6).
At first glance, the auto seems like the traditional choice, but running costs tell another story:
| Vehicle Type | Fuel/Electricity Cost (per month) | Maintenance Cost | Total Monthly Expense |
| E-Rickshaw | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 | ₹600 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,800 – ₹2,800 |
| Auto Rickshaw | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | ₹7,500 – ₹10,500 |
How Much Can You Carry? E Rickshaw Loading Capacity Explained
Some drivers worry, “Will I carry enough passengers or goods in an e rickshaw?”
A typical e rickshaw loading capacity is 4-6 passengers or 300-400 kg of goods. Compare that with an auto rickshaw, which can carry 4 passengers comfortably, sometimes a bit more if you squeeze.
The difference is small, but the savings and comfort make up for it. E rickshaws are great for city streets, tight lanes, and short trips. If you need to carry heavier loads or drive long distances constantly, consider the battery and terrain.
Life on the Road: Why Drivers Are Switching to E Rickshaws
Many drivers are switching to e rickshaws because daily costs are lower. An e rickshaw does not need petrol or diesel, so fuel expenses are almost zero. Maintenance is also simpler, which means fewer repair visits and less money spent every month.
Driving feels easier on city roads. There is less noise, less vibration, and smoother movement in traffic, which reduces tiredness during long hours. At the same time, e rickshaws need proper use. Overloading or poor maintenance can affect battery life and performance.
E rickshaws are also better for the surroundings. They produce no smoke and make less noise. Another benefit is saving time. Without fuel stops, drivers can spend more time carrying passengers and earning.
Simple Habits That Help Your E Rickshaw Run Better
Small daily habits can help avoid problems and keep the vehicle running well.
- Charge the battery fully at night
- Do not overload with extra passengers or goods
- Drive smoothly and avoid sudden speeding
- Keep tyres properly inflated
- Check brakes regularly
- Keep battery wires and connections clean
- Avoid fully draining the battery
- Park in a covered or shaded place
- Service the vehicle on time
Quick Answers Every Driver Wants to Know
1: What is the average e rickshaw loading capacity?
Most e rickshaws can carry 4-6 passengers or up to 400 kg of goods, enough for daily city routes and short deliveries.
2. How long does an e rickshaw take to charge?
Most e rickshaws take around 6-8 hours to charge fully. Drivers usually charge them overnight, so the battery is ready for a full day of work. Charging properly and on time also helps the battery last longer and keeps the vehicle running smoothly.
3: Are e rickshaws more cost-effective than auto rickshaws?
Yes. They use electricity instead of fuel and require less maintenance, which can lower your monthly expenses.
4: Can e rickshaws run long distances daily?
They can cover 80-100 km per day comfortably. Longer distances may reduce battery life, so it’s best to manage trips carefully.
5. Is it worth switching from an auto rickshaw to an e rickshaw?
For city driving, yes. You’ll spend less on fuel, keep maintenance low, and it’s easier on your arms and back. Keep an eye on the battery and load, but for most daily routes, it’s a smarter ride.
Ready to Switch? Krishna Electric Vehicle Can Help!
Switching to an e rickshaw can save you money, reduce maintenance hassles, and make your day on the road easier. Keep an eye on loading capacity, charge it fully overnight, and pick the model that suits your routes. Take care of small things like tyres, brakes, and battery, and your vehicle will run smoothly and last longer.
If you’re thinking about switching to an e rickshaw, we at Krishna Electric Vehicle are here to make it easy. We offer a range of models, flexible financing options, and full support after your purchase.