What does the BYD eMAX 7's success mean for the electrification of the Indian MPV segment?
The BYD eMAX 7 is a major step in electrification of the Indian MPV segment, which has been a stronghold of ICE vehicles. Its performance in the market could have far reaching implications for the industry as one of the first all electric MPVs in the country. If it works, it could spur other manufacturers to bring forward their EV plans in this segment. But the challenge in India is that the MPV market has a need for long range for family road trips and also a preference for proven, reliable brands. Lastly, the eMAX 7’s reception could give us some important insights on how far Indian consumers are open to electric technology in family vehicles of that size. Will the eMAX 7 be the spark to get established players like Maruti Suzuki and Toyota to fast track their electric MPV plans? Will potential struggles bring to light the challenges of electrifying a segment as Indian as this?
The eMAX 7 will certainly light a fire under the competition if it takes off. Maruti and Toyota will now try to bring out their electric MPVs earlier. That could be the push the segment needs to go electric.
I'm skeptical. It’s not like one premium EV is going to completely change the whole segment. The majority of MPV buyers seek for affordable and reliable family cars. Till the time, there is no electric MPV that can match the Ertiga on price, mass electrification will not happen.
It's going to be a slow burn. Early adopters will love the eMAX 7, but it will be a while before the technology trickles down into more affordable models. At the moment I think we're still 5-7 years from mainstream electric MPVs.
No matter if it's a success or failure the eMAX 7 will be a source of important data on how Indian families use electric MPVs. It will be vital information for other manufacturers to build their own models. It's a necessary first step.
I believe it will have first a bigger impact on the premium MPV segment. Kia and Hyundai may speed up their plans for electric Carnival and Alcazar models. It will take longer to electrify the mass market stuff.
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Discussions and Questions What Does The Byd Emax 7S Success Mean For The Electrification Of The Indian Mpv Segment
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