Quick Highlights:
- TVS Motor starts 2026 at No.1 with 34,428 units, driven by iQube and Orbiter.
- Ather Energy records 21,915 units, rapidly closing the gap with Bajaj.
- Ola Electric slips sharply to 7,511 units, down 16.7% MoM.
- Ampere stays steady at 5,336 units, reinforcing its reputation for reliability.
Electric Two-Wheeler Sales in India: January 2026 Snapshot
The first month of the year is always a strong indicator of buyer sentiment, especially after December’s registration-led slowdown. January 2026 makes one thing clear to me: Indian EV buyers are now prioritizing reliability, service, and brand trust over flashy tech promises.
Here’s how the electric two-wheeler market shaped up.
TVS Motor: A Clear Market Leader
At No.1, TVS Motor has started 2026 with a commanding performance, clocking 34,428 units, a solid 37.49% growth over December.
The iQube continues to dominate urban family buyers, while the new Orbiter commuter scooter is quietly becoming a favorite among daily riders. TVS’ strength lies in something very simple yet powerful: a proven service network and conservative, safety-first engineering, which Indian customers deeply value.
Bajaj Auto: Still Strong at No.2
Bajaj Auto retains the No.2 position with 25,505 units, growing 35.73% month-on-month.
The Chetak’s metal body, classic design, and perceived durability continue to resonate strongly with Indian families. While Bajaj may not be the fastest-growing brand anymore, its consistency and trust factor keep it firmly in the top tier.
Ather Energy: The Gap Is Closing Fast
This is where things get interesting.
Ather Energy sold 21,915 units in January, posting 28.51% growth. From where I see it, Ather is no longer just a premium tech startup.
The Rizta has been a game-changer, helping Ather transition into a mass-market EV brand without losing its tech credibility. The sales gap between Ather and Bajaj is shrinking, and if momentum continues, a shuffle in rankings later this year wouldn’t surprise me.
Hero MotoCorp Vida: Quiet but Consistent
Hero MotoCorp’s Vida recorded 13,273 units, growing 24.03% over December.
Hero’s biggest advantage remains its unmatched reach in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. While Vida may not dominate headlines, its steady growth suggests strong acceptance among first-time EV buyers outside metros.
The Ola Crisis: A Sharp Fall from the Top
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The biggest shock of January 2026 is undeniably Ola Electric.
Sales dropped to 7,511 units, marking a 16.72% decline month-on-month. From once commanding nearly 40% market share, Ola is now struggling to stay relevant in the Top 5.
Persistent service complaints, inconsistent ownership experiences, and a visible shift toward legacy OEMs appear to be hurting the brand badly. In my view, Ola’s challenge is no longer product-led, but trust-led.
Ampere: The Reliable Alternative
Ampere continues to play its role as the market’s stable performer, selling 5,336 units, with 12.26% growth.
The Ampere Nexus is finding favor among buyers who prioritize long-term durability, LFP battery safety, and predictable ownership costs over high-tech features. Ampere may not grow explosively, but it is clearly building a loyal base.
Monthly Sales Comparison (Dec 2025 vs Jan 2026)
| Ranking | Brand | Dec 2025 | Jan 2026 | Growth |
| 1 | TVS | 25,039 | 34,428 | 37.49% |
| 2 | Bajaj | 18,790 | 25,505 | 35.73% |
| 3 | Ather | 17,052 | 21,915 | 28.51% |
| 4 | Hero Vida | 10,701 | 13,273 | 24.03% |
| 5 | Ola Electric | 9,020 | 7,511 | -16.72% |
| 6 | Ampere | 4,753 | 5,336 | 12.26% |
Expert Take: What January 2026 Really Tells Us
January’s numbers confirm what many in the industry have quietly acknowledged: the Indian EV market has matured.
It’s no longer about who has the most aggressive software or the flashiest launch. Brands that offer reliable hardware, battery safety, and dependable service are winning. TVS, Bajaj, Ather, and even Ampere are benefiting from this shift, while brands that over-promised are now paying the price.
