It’s time for the ultimate scooter showdown: electric scooters vs petrol scooters! 

Whether you’re looking to skip long Nepali traffic jams or go on long rides, choosing the right scooter can make all the difference. 

So, if you’re wondering which type of scooter is best for you, look no further. In this article, we’ll compare electric scooter vs petrol scooters on several different factors. So, buckle up and get ready to ride with us!

Electric Scooter Vs Petrol Scooter: Prices

Upfront Prices

Let’s talk cash, baby! When it comes to upfront prices, electric scooters cost a little higher than petrol scooters. ​​This is due to the components used in electric scooters being much costlier. The most expensive component of an electric scooter is its battery, which can account for up to 50% of the total cost. And since battery technology is still relatively new and developing, the cost of producing high-performance batteries can be quite high. 

Taxes in Nepal

But, there’s more! In Nepal, the government has provided amazing tax provisions on electric vehicles, and the lowest tax is levied on electric scooters which is 10% customs duty, which is far less compared to petrol scooters. The tax policy of Nepal has played a very crucial role in making the prices competitive. 

Electric Scooter Vs Petrol Scooter: Long Term Expenses

If you’re on a tight budget and looking to buy a scooter upfront, a petrol model may seem like the more affordable option. But before you buy a petrol scooter, consider the long-term costs of running it. Expenses on petrol, maintenance and repairs add up over time to make owning a petrol scooter very expensive on the day-to-day. 

Running Costs

Firstly, Nepali petrol prices were all-time high in the year 2079 and have been fluctuating since forever. The fluctuating prices of petrol can cause financial strain in the long run. On the other hand, electric scooters run on electricity, which is generally cheaper and more stable in terms of cost.

Repair and Maintenance Cost

Secondly, petrol scooters are run with complex engines which require more maintenance. Regular servicing, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements, are necessary to keep the petrol scooter in a good condition. Electric scooters, with fewer moving parts, require less frequent maintenance, reducing their long-term maintenance costs.

Electric Scooter Vs Petrol Scooter: Environmental Impact

Carbon Footprint

Electric scooters are a more sustainable choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint as they produce zero emissions while their counterpart, the average petrol scooter, emits around 88 grams of CO2 per kilometre driven. 

Noise 

Electric scooters are silent. There is a certain kind of calmness you feel when you ride an electric scooter, which can contribute to a quieter and more peaceful environment. On the other hand, petrol scooters are much noisier than electric scooters, as they have loud engines that produce noise pollution. 

Recycling

Lastly, electric scooter batteries are recyclable and many scooter manufacturers have established programs for recycling old batteries, making them a more sustainable option. In contrast, petrol scooter engines and parts are not recyclable, resulting in these items often ending up in landfills, which is not environmentally friendly.

Electric Scooter Vs Petrol Scooter: Convenience

Range

Petrol scooters are widely available. And, most of them have a longer range compared to most electric scooters, thanks to their larger fuel tank capacity and the ability to refuel easily at petrol stations available at many places. 

Plus, they generally have more power and higher top speeds, making them suitable for longer trips. But today, many electric scooters which can compete with the petrol scooter’s range and top speed are available in many places.

Charge Vs Fuel

Charging takes much more time than filling up a petrol scooter’s tank. It typically takes around 30-40 minutes for fast charging and 6-8 hours for normal charging. But another point to be noted is the long lines in petrol pumps in Nepal.   

Ergonomics

Electric scooters are easier to park, since they’re smaller and lighter than petrol scooters. They’re also more manoeuvrable, which makes them better to swerve the chaotic traffic of Nepal. 

Petrol Vs Electric Scooter: Full Comparison

Criteria	Electric Scooter	Petrol Scooter
Prices	Expensive Upfront Prices	Comparatively cheaper
Tax	Lower Tax % Imposed	Higher Tax % Imposed
Running Costs	Charging does not cost much.	Petrol prices are very high
Repair and Maintenance Cost	Lesser maintenance needed	Regular maintenance required which costs higher
Carbon Footprint	Zero emissions	88 grams of CO2 per kilometre emitted
Noise	No Noise Produced while Riding	Produces significant noise
Recycling	Battery can be recycled	Mostly non-recyclable
Range	Typically lesser Range	More Range
Charge Vs Fuel	Needs time to charge	Fuel can be filled up quickly if there is no line.
Ergonomics	Lighter and Easy To Ride	Comparatively heavier

Conclusion

So, which one is better: electric scooters or petrol scooters? The answer fully depends on you. Both have their own set of pros and cons. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and convenient option for short-distance travel, an electric scooter is the way to go. However, if you need to travel long distances on a regular basis, a petrol scooter may be a more practical option.