An Indian BYD Seal EV owner was stunned to learn that a battery replacement for the car would cost more than the price of a brand-new Hyundai Creta. The revelation has sparked fresh conversations about EV maintenance costs and long-term ownership in India.
Source Image: ndtv
In a story that’s raising eyebrows across India’s growing electric vehicle (EV) community, a BYD Seal owner recently discovered that replacing the car’s battery could cost more than buying a Hyundai Creta, one of the country’s most popular compact SUVs.
The incident has drawn attention not only because of the price tag—reportedly ₹15 to ₹18 lakh for a new battery—but also because it highlights the still-evolving after-sales and support ecosystem for EVs in India.
Battery = Backbone
The BYD Seal is a premium electric sedan that boasts impressive performance, range, and tech specs. However, its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery is also one of the most expensive components. While EV batteries are designed to last 7–10 years or more, issues requiring early replacement can prove financially daunting.
In contrast, a brand-new Hyundai Creta starts around ₹11 lakh and goes up to ₹20 lakh depending on the variant—making the battery price of the Seal comparable or even higher.
What Triggered the Replacement?
While the exact reason for the battery replacement was not publicly disclosed, industry sources speculate:
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Premature degradation
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Accidental damage
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Manufacturing fault outside warranty
BYD offers a standard battery warranty of around 8 years or 1.6 lakh km, but if the issue falls outside warranty coverage, the owner is liable for the entire cost.
EV Maintenance: Not Always Cheaper
Though EVs are marketed as low-maintenance vehicles due to fewer moving parts, this case shows that when something does go wrong, it can be very costly.
EV Owners Must Consider:
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Battery health monitoring
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Warranty terms and exclusions
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Availability of service centers and support
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Potential resale value drop if battery performance declines
What This Means for EV Buyers in India
As electric vehicles become more common on Indian roads, prospective buyers must weigh total ownership costs, including:
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Long-term battery reliability
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Replacement costs after warranty
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Manufacturer support for parts and service
It also raises questions about recycling, refurbishment, and buy-back programs for EV batteries—areas where Indian policies are still catching up.
