Tata Curvv EV maintenance Cost

Electric vehicles (EVs) are global due to their environmental benefits, lower operating costs, and advancements in technology. The Tata Curvv EV, a compact SUV, and also one of the latest entrants in the Indian EV market.

Is electric vehicles cheaper to maintain? Or Is that another green-energy marketing pitch?  

Imagine a car’s engine- it’s like a small factory with hundreds of moving parts, all working in perfect harmony. Now, picture the Curvv EV’s electric powertrain, that’s more of a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple system, such as comparing a mechanical watch to a digital one. So, do we need it for maintenance or not?

Overview of Maintenance Costs: EVs vs. Petrol/Diesel Cars

One of the critical factor for car owners, are the maintenance costs. EVs, such as the Curvv EV, a fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which translates to lower maintenance requirements.

1. Components and Complexity
   • Electric vehicles got a simpler drivetrain, consisting of a battery, electric motor, and power electronics. They lack components such as fuel injectors, exhaust systems, clutches, and transmissions, prone to wear and tear in ICE vehicles.
   • Petrol/Diesel Cars: Hundreds of moving parts, such as pistons, crankshafts, and complex transmission systems, require regular servicing and replacements.
2. Maintenance Frequency
   • A requirement of less frequent maintenance for EVs. For instance, the Curvv EV only needs periodic checks for the battery, tires, brakes, and software updates.
   • ICE vehicles also require oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups, typically every 10,000-15,000 km.

3. Cost of Spare Parts

• EVs with components such as expensive batteries, designed to last longer (8-10 years or more). Other parts, such as brakes, wear out slower due to regenerative braking.
• Petrol/Diesel Cars with spare parts that are widely available but require frequent replacements, leading to higher cumulative costs.

Data-driven comparison for the cost of maintenance

Let’s compare the costs of maintenance of the Curvv EV with equivalent petrol and diesel cars for over a 5-year ownership period, assuming an annual mileage of 15,000 km.

1. Curvv EV Maintenance Costs
   • The most expensive component of the EV car is the battery, but covered under warranty (typically 8 years or 160,000 km). Post-warranty replacement costs are high (Rs.3-5 lakhs), but the degradation of the battery is gradual/
   • EV tires are heavier due to the battery, leading to slightly faster tire wear. The replacement cost of the Annual tire is Rs. 10,000-Rs. 15,000.
   • The regenerative brakes support reducing the wear on brake pads. The Annual brake maintenance cost is Rs.2,000- Rs. 5000.
   • The software updates may cost Rs. 5,000-Rs.10,000 annually.
   • The total 5-year Maintenance Cost is approximately Rs.1-Rs.1.5 lakhs.
2. Petrol Car Maintenance Costs
   • Engine Oil and filter changes every 10,000 km cost around Rs.3,000-Rs.5,000 per service. Over 5 years, the cost is Rs.30,000-Rs.50,000.
   • The Spark Plugs and Ignition system replacement every 40,000 km costs Rs.10,000 -Rs.15,000.
   • The Transmission and Clutch servicing costs are around Rs. 20,000- Rs.30,000 over 5 years.
   • The exhaust system maintenance costs around Rs.10,000 to Rs.15,000.
   • The Total 5-year maintenance cost is approximately Rs.1.5-2 lakhs.
3. Diesel Car Maintenance Costs
   • Diesel engine oil and filters require more frequent oil changes, costing Rs.4,000-Rs.6,000 per service. Over 5 years: Rs. 40,000- Rs. 60,000.
4. Fuel Injectors and Turbocharger maintenance costs are around Rs.20,000 to Rs. 30,000.
   • The diesel particulate filter cleaning or replacement costs are around Rs.15000-Rs.25000.
   • The Total 5-year Maintenance Cost is approximately Rs.2-2.5 lakhs.

However, as per the expert reports and insights, there is a declining trend observed in EV maintenance costs due to advancements in battery technology to improve longevity and reduce replacement costs.

The regenerative braking feature significantly reduces brake wear and lowers the maintenance cost. Also, due to the increase in EV adoption, the cost of spare parts and servicing may decrease over time.

EVs such as Curvv EVs have higher upfront costs but lower long-term maintenance expenses. Over a 10-year down the line, the total cost of ownership (TCO) of an EV is lower than that of petrol or diesel cars.

Opinions and Expert Views

 EV Advantages

• Lower Running Costs: Experts agree that EVs have lower running and maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and no reliance on fossil fuels.
• Environmental Benefits: EVs contribute to reducing carbon emissions, making them a sustainable choice.

Consumer Perspective

• Initial Investment: While EVs have higher upfront costs, the savings in fuel and maintenance make them a viable option for budget-conscious consumers.
• Charging Infrastructure: The availability of charging stations remains a concern, but this is improving rapidly.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But what about that expensive battery?” You’re right to ask. The battery is indeed the elephant in the room, potentially costing ₹3-5 lakhs to replace. However, here’s the good news: it’s covered under warranty for 8 years or 160,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Plus, battery technology has come a long way. These aren’t like your smartphone batteries that seem to give up after two years.

Tata Curvv EV offers significant advantages in terms of maintenance costs compared to petrol and diesel cars. With fewer moving parts, lower servicing requirements, and the benefits of regenerative braking, the Curvv EV is a cost-effective option in the long run.

Well, EVs do have their quirks. The tires, for instance, tend to wear out a bit faster because electric cars are heavier (those batteries aren’t lightweight!). You might need to have a good budget for tire maintenance.

Looking at the bigger picture, it’s fascinating to see how the auto industry is evolving. Traditional cars are becoming more complex (and expensive to maintain) to meet stricter emission standards, while EVs are getting simpler and more efficient.

Sources:- Tata Motors, IEA, bnef, JD Power, consumerreports, energy.gov, NITI Aayog