The Indian Car Of The Year (ICOTY) award focuses on cars launched in India, while the World Car Awards considers models sold in at least two continents. The World Car of the Year 2024 contenders were just revealed. The top three models, all-electric vehicles (EVs), are the BYD Seal, Kia EV9, and Volvo EX30. Excitingly, all three are set to be introduced in the Indian market soon, so let’s explore what they offer:
BYD Seal
- Launch Date: March 5, 2024
- Expected Price: Starting from Rs 55 lakh
The BYD Seal debuted in India at the Auto Expo 2023 and is scheduled for launch on March 5 this year. It marks the EV maker’s third offering in India following the e6 MPV and Atto 3 SUV. Available in three variants with various battery packs and electric motor configurations, it boasts a WLTC-claimed range of up to 570 km.
Key features include a rotating 15.6-inch infotainment display, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless phone chargers, and ventilated and heated front seats. Safety features include eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Kia EV9
- Expected Launch: Second half of 2024
- Expected Price: Around Rs 80 lakh
In 2023, Kia introduced its flagship EV, the Kia EV9, globally. It was showcased at the Auto Expo 2023 in a pre-production concept form. This three-row all-electric SUV comes with a variety of battery and electric motor options as well as rear-wheel (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants. The EV9 claims a range of over 541 kilometers making it an appealing alternative to standard luxury SUVs powered by petrol or diesel engines. Kia plans to bring the EV9 to India via the completely built-up unit (CBU) route.
The global-spec EV9 has a 708W 14-speaker Meridian sound system in addition to two 12.3-inch linked displays. Safety features may include nine airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Volvo EX30
- Expected Launch: Second half of 2025
- Expected Price: Approximately Rs 50 lakh
The Volvo EX30 is the carmaker’s new entry-level electric SUV, expected to arrive in India in 2025. Positioned below the XC40 Recharge (now EX40), it offers multiple electric powertrain options, with a claimed range of up to 474 km. Equipment includes a 12.3-inch vertically placed touchscreen system, wireless phone charging, connected car tech, and a 360-degree camera. Several advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) are also included with the EX30, such as collision avoidance, park assist, and driver attentiveness alert.