Bhubaneswar, May 16: The ongoing fuel crisis in Odisha, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, has triggered a sharp rise in demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Long queues continue at petrol pumps, while several fuel stations have reportedly run dry, forcing people to wait for hours to refill fuel.

Amid the shortage, EV showrooms across the state have witnessed heavy footfall over the last two days. Dealerships said EV bookings have increased two to ten times as consumers look for alternatives to fuel-powered vehicles.

Automobile dealers said improved technology, lower operating costs and growing charging infrastructure are encouraging more customers to shift towards EVs. Many first-time buyers are also visiting showrooms in large numbers.

Aditya Patra, Managing Director of Aditya Group, said the fuel crisis and uncertainty over fuel availability have accelerated EV sales in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack corridor. He added that government support and expansion of charging infrastructure would further boost demand.

Debashish Das, GM-Sales of MG Central, Khandagiri, said inquiries for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers EVs have risen significantly. Around 190 charging stations are expected to come up in Odisha, which is likely to strengthen EV adoption further.

Mansur Box, MD of MBS Bajaj, said inquiries at their showroom have increased nearly tenfold in the last two days. According to automobile dealers, companies are now struggling to meet the sudden surge in demand, with delivery timelines extending up to three to four months.