Kerala Consumer Commission Orders ₹1.63 Lakh Payout After Electric Scooter Fails to Deliver Promised Mileage

A consumer commission in Kerala has ordered an electric scooter manufacturer to compensate a customer with a total payout of ₹1.63 lakh after the vehicle failed to deliver promised mileage and exhibited multiple defects. The ruling, delivered recently, includes a refund of ₹88,000 along with additional compensation and litigation costs. The manufacturer must comply within 45 days or face further financial penalties.

The customer reported poor battery performance and a defective wheel bearing system, among other issues. The commission's investigation found the manufacturer's service to be insufficient and the product defective. This case underscores the growing scrutiny of electric vehicle quality and after-sales service as EV adoption rises in India. The specific manufacturer was not named in the dispatch.

The ruling sets a precedent for consumer protection in the EV sector, potentially encouraging other buyers to seek redress for similar issues. It also highlights the need for manufacturers to ensure product reliability and robust service networks. As India pushes for electric mobility, such cases may influence regulatory oversight and consumer confidence. The manufacturer has not yet commented on the order.