New Delhi — February 17, 2026:rnDespite rising interest in electric vehicles, many Indian car buyers continue to favour hybrid vehiclesover full EVs, reveals the 2026 Deloitte Global Automotive Consumer Study – India, in an exclusive discussion with HT Auto. rnrnIn an interaction with Ayush Arya, Rajat Mahajan, Partner and Automotive Sector Leader at Deloitte India, explained how buyer attitudes are shifting within the rapidly evolving Indian auto market. While EVs remain on consumers’ radar, buyers are still cautious about fully electric options and are increasingly choosing hybrids as a transitional technology.rnrn? EV Interest Remains, But Hybrids LeadrnrnAccording to the survey, interest in pure battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has hovered around 8–10% over the past few years, without a significant upward jump. Meanwhile, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles remain dominant, and hybrid vehicles continue to grow as a preferred choice amid current infrastructure and cost realities.rnrnMahajan noted that while the EV interest has not vanished, buyers are adopting a cautious stance, partly due to concerns related to charging infrastructure and charging time — especially for those without guaranteed access to home or workplace charging. rnrn? Changing Reasons Behind EV ConsiderationrnrnThe study also highlights a shift in the motivations behind EV interest:rnrn* Earlier: Environmental concerns were the top reason for considering EVs.rn* Now: Buyers are focused more on lifestyle experience and lower running costs rather than just eco-friendliness.rnrnThis suggests that EVs are expanding beyond early adopters — previously driven mainly by environmental values — to more mainstream consumers who value everyday convenience and economic benefits. rnrn? Charging Infrastructure: Home and Work Are KeyrnrnA major insight from the report is the priority Indian consumers place on charging certainty. The following charging preferences emerged:rnrn* 62% want charging available at homern* 18% prefer charging at workrnrnTogether, 80% of respondents want guaranteed access at familiar locations, underlining the importance of reliable charging solutions at primary daily hubs.rnrnMahajan stressed the need for collaboration between carmakers, governments, real estate developers, and energy companies to ensure more charging access points in residential and commercial areas — especially in older cities where retrofitting chargers remains a challenge. rnrn? Brand Fluidity and Consumer ExpectationsrnrnThe Deloitte study also finds that brand loyalty is declining, with nearly 70% of buyers open to switching brands for their next purchase. More models, features, and competitive pricing have expanded buyer choices — leading to a more dynamic automotive market.rnrnConnected and software-driven vehicle features — including safety systems and over-the-air (OTA) updates — are becoming increasingly influential in purchase decisions. Automakers are being encouraged to build trust through data transparency and clear communication on what is collected and why, to reassure customers concerned about data privacy.
