In 2025, electric vehicle (EV) industry in India is rapidly growing, with rising adoption of EV usage in two-wheelers, three-wheelers, cars, and in fleets. This growth has created a substantial demand for quality EV charging infrastructure across the country. One very effective and profitable way to participate in this development is to invest in an EV charging station franchise. With the support of government, local urban design plans, and consumers interests, these franchise models are quickly becoming a real commercial opportunity for entrepreneurs, MSMEs and investors alike.
From major highways, to residential communities, EV charging station franchise networks are a catalyst for India’s transformation towards clean mobility. Backed by large companies and technology-powered platforms, this business model is easy to get into, has tremendous upside potential, aligns to your local, national and global sustainability objectives.
Why EV Charging Station Franchises Are Booming in India?
Rising EV Adoption
India recorded over 2.1 million EV registrations in the first half of 2025 alone, as per the Vahan dashboard. This number is expected to double by 2026. Most of this growth is driven by electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers (both cargo and passenger), and growing demand from corporate fleet operators.
The increase in EVs has increased demand for dependable, fast, and convenient charging points — and the EV charging station franchise model is now on the scene to help fulfill that demand.
Government Push & Incentives
The Government of India is still supporting EV infrastructure through the FAME-II scheme and state level EV policies. Many states offer benefits like:
- Subsidies on charging equipment
- Lower electricity tariffs for public charging
- Land allotment support
- Single-window clearance for setting up charging stations
Such policies are directly encouraging private players to invest in EV charging station franchise setups.
Low Entry Barriers
The appeal of the EV charging station franchise model is its relatively low cost of entry. Many existing EV charging solution providers provide a full franchise kit. These typically include the following:
- Hardware and software
- Branding and marketing
- Installation and maintenance
- Revenue-share or fixed return on investment (ROI) model
This reduces the technical burden and enables entrepreneurs to acquire an instantly available business framework.
How EV Charging Station Franchise Works in India
To better understand how an EV charging station franchise operates, it is necessary to gain a good understanding prior to starting. Here is a very simple structure:
Start-up Cost: ₹8 Lakh to ₹40 Lakh
The cost of the franchise varies depending on the number of charging points, the type of charger (AC or DC) and the availability of the land.
Requirement of Land: 500 – 1000 sq ft
Location would be preferably in malls, metro stations, fuel stations, commercial complexes, and expressways.
Power Connection:
- AC chargers require 10–15 kW, while fast DC chargers may need 50–60 kW load capacity.
- Tie-ups with local DISCOMs are necessary.
Revenue Model:
- Already based on “pay-per-use” (Rs. per kWh or per minute).
- Some have time-based or subscription pricing models.
Anticipated ROI:
- Most franchisees recover their investment in 2.5 to 4 years, based on their location and usage.
- The best part of the EV charging station franchise business model is its ability to scale – it is easily scalable with small starts and growing as needed.
Popular Companies Offering EV Charging Station Franchise Opportunities in India
Several major players in India are now offering EV charging station franchise options for businesses and individuals:
| Company | Charger Type | Franchise Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tata Power EZ Charge | AC & DC Chargers | Pan-India presence, full installation support, EZ Charge app integration, OCPP compliance |
| ChargeZone | Fast DC Chargers | High-speed DC charging, automated billing, fleet-compatible smart energy management |
| Statiq | Public AC & DC Chargers | Turnkey setup, dynamic pricing, app + IoT-powered platform for real-time monitoring |
| Volttic | Fleet + Public Chargers | Solar-enabled stations, RFID and QR code access, remote monitoring via app/dashboard |
| EVRE | Modular Smart Stations | End-to-end infra solutions, modular container stations, strong REIT tie-ups |
| Delta Electronics | Premium DC Fast Chargers | Global-grade EVSE hardware, smart grid-ready solutions, preferred OEM partner status |
Each of these brands provides training, backend software support, and helps franchise partners maintain uptime and efficiency.
Important Points to Think About Before Starting an EV Charging Station Franchise
While it is a great opportunity, an EV charging station franchise requires a great deal of thoughtful planning. Here are the main considerations:
1. Location
Location is critical in setting up an EV charging station franchise. Look for locations with:
- A lot of EV traffic (urban areas, transport hubs, tech and research parks)
- Long stopover places (shopping malls, cafes, petrol stations)
- EV fleet activity (last mile delivery hubs, cab stands)
2. Understanding User Segments
Know your users. A station near residential areas may see more two-wheeler traffic. Highway locations may need high-speed DC chargers for electric cars or buses.
3. Electric Load Availability
Check if your chosen location can support the required power load. For example, a 50 kW fast charger needs a stable three-phase connection.
4. Licensing and Compliance
All EV charging station franchise setups must comply with:
- Central Electricity Authority (CEA) safety guidelines
- Local DISCOM regulations
- State EV policy approvals
Make sure you secure all permits before operations begin.
5. Technology and Billing
Look for franchise models that offer:
- Mobile app integration (for users to locate, book, and pay)
- Real-time monitoring
- Energy tracking and consumption reports
- Uptime and fault alerts
This tech backbone is what separates a successful EV charging station franchise from the rest.
The Future of EV Charging Station Franchises in India
As India moves toward its 2030 goal of 30% EV penetration, the scope of EV charging station franchise businesses will expand. Here’s what the future holds:
1. Battery Swapping Integration
Many two- and three-wheeler fleet operators are adopting battery swapping. Some franchise operators may soon include battery swap kiosks in their offerings.
2. Solar-Powered Stations
Solar-powered EV charging station franchise models are already gaining ground. With rising electricity costs and grid load issues, solar helps improve profitability and sustainability.
3. Tier 2 and Tier 3 Expansion
Until now, EV infrastructure was limited to metros. But new demand is growing in cities like Bhopal, Lucknow, Surat, and Nagpur opening more regional EV charging station franchise options.
4. Fleet and Commercial Charging
Last-mile and e-commerce delivery companies like Amazon, Zomato, and Flipkart are actively seeking dedicated EV charging partners. This opens up opportunities for B2B EV charging station franchise models.
Conclusion
In 2025, setting up an EV charging station franchise is one of the most promising business opportunities in India’s green economy. The combination of strong government support, fast-growing EV adoption, and low-entry franchise models make it a profitable and future-proof investment.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to diversify, a startup enthusiast exploring cleantech, or a fleet operator aiming to lower fuel costs, an EV charging station franchise offers a practical way to enter the EV space.
With the right location, brand partner, and strategic planning, your EV charging station franchise can be both a high-impact and high-reward venture contributing to India’s transition to clean, sustainable transportation.