The figure of 106 Wh/km propelled Tata Motors to the top of the 2025 ICCT rating, surpassing top global brands in the category of electric vehicle efficiency. The ICCT report, which measures how well automakers use electricity to cover distance, has positioned Indian manufacturers at the forefront of energy efficiency in the electric vehicle sector.
The International Council on Clean Transportation examined 22 of the world’s largest automakers for its 2025 evaluation. While the report does not account for sales figures or charging speed, it zeroes in on energy efficiency, as measured by how much electricity is used to travel a fixed distance. In this regard, Tata Motors and Mahindra outperformed Tesla and BYD significantly, claiming the top two spots in the ranking.
Why India's EVs use less energy
The reason behind the strong performance of Indian automakers lies in their design philosophy. Instead of focusing on large, high-powered electric SUVs and sedans, Tata and Mahindra have concentrated on compact crossovers. These models prioritize efficiency and affordability, making them well-suited for everyday urban driving. The Tata Sierra.ev and Mahindra BE 6, for instance, are built with lightweight materials and optimized powertrains, along with smaller battery packs, to ensure minimal energy use.
According to the ICCT report, this approach makes these vehicles ideal for city use. These EVs are designed to serve the needs of daily commuters rather than long-distance travelers. Standardized lab tests have clearly demonstrated the energy efficiency of these models, with lower Wh/km figures translating to reduced electricity usage per kilometer. This efficiency not only benefits the environment but also lowers operating costs for vehicle owners.
Tata's strengths and weaknesses
Tata Motors has a clear advantage when it comes to energy efficiency. Its electric vehicles rank as the most energy-efficient among major global brands, a significant achievement given the current state of the Indian EV market. However, the ICCT report also highlights areas where Tata needs improvement, particularly in terms of charging speed and overall driving range.
Tata’s EVs charge more slowly than those offered by some international competitors. While a 20–80% charge in 26 minutes is competitive, other automakers have developed systems that can charge even faster. Long-distance driving capabilities also remain a challenge for Tata models, which could limit their appeal for users who frequently travel beyond urban areas.
Despite its leadership in energy efficiency, the Indian EV market as a whole remains small. Indian brands account for less than 1% of the global electric vehicle fleet, indicating there is considerable room for growth. However, the report makes it clear that, to compete effectively on the global stage, Indian automakers must address other factors, such as battery technology, charging infrastructure, and range capabilities, beyond just energy efficiency.
The rankings released by the ICCT are based on energy consumption, not performance metrics like acceleration or charging speed. This means that while Tata and Mahindra have excelled in efficiency, they still face challenges in making their vehicles more versatile for a wider range of user needs. The ICCT also noted that the average energy consumption for leading EV manufacturers is 131 Wh/km, meaning that the Indian companies are well ahead of the global average.
Tata’s Sierra.ev is available in configurations with 63 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs, offering claimed ranges of up to 665 km under the MIDC standard, or over 500 km in real-world conditions based on the C75 cycle. The vehicle supports fast charging, adding 263 km of range in just 15 minutes. Mahindra’s BE 6 features 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery options and has an ARAI-certified range of up to 682 km.
These models are designed with energy-efficient driving in mind. The lighter, more compact nature of these vehicles, along with optimized powertrains, contributes to their impressive efficiency numbers. The ICCT calculated average energy consumption figures based on each manufacturer’s official data from standardized test cycles, allowing for a fair and consistent comparison.
The report emphasizes that energy efficiency is just one aspect of the overall electric vehicle experience. Other important factors include charging speed, the availability of charging infrastructure, and the overall driving range that a vehicle can achieve. While the efficiency of Indian EVs is a major plus, the ICCT has noted that Indian manufacturers still have work to do to match global leaders in these other areas.
Despite this, the achievement of Tata Motors and Mahindra in leading the 2025 Global Automaker Rating in energy efficiency marks a significant milestone for the Indian automotive industry. It shows that Indian brands can compete with global leaders, even in an emerging sector like electric mobility. With continued innovation and a strong focus on efficiency, these companies have the potential to expand their global reach and influence.