The surge in electric vehicle (EV) awareness is reshaping the automotive landscape with an increasing number of automakers including those catering to the mass market, eagerly venturing into this transformative segment. There are numerous benefits for customers as well as a more sustainable future associated with the switch from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars to electric vehicles. These include lower running costs, reduced maintenance requirements due to the simplicity of electric drivetrains with fewer moving parts, and a quieter and smoother driving experience.
The concurrent development of charging infrastructure throughout India makes this transition even more realistic. It is crucial because this discovery makes it possible for EVs to transcend their prior limitations most of which have to do with urban transportation. With charging stations becoming more widespread, the prospect of embarking on cross-country journeys in all-electric vehicles is no longer a distant reality.
Let's delve deeper into the details of some of the highly anticipated electric vehicles that are poised to make a significant impact on the Indian market:
1. Maruti eVX
Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to introduce its first all-electric offering in India with the eVX. The vehicle has already been spotted undergoing testing on Indian roads, fueling speculation of an expedited launch, possibly in the year 2024. Production is expected to take place at Suzuki's plant in Gujarat. The Maruti eVX is anticipated to feature a robust combination of a 60 kWh battery and dual motors providing an impressive range of 550 km. Excitingly, there are talks of a Toyota variant in the pipeline. The expected price point is around Rs 22 lakh, with a projected launch date set for late 2024.
2. Hyundai Kona Electric (2nd-gen)
Hyundai's second-generation Kona Electric unveiled recently, is set to offer a larger form factor, a more sophisticated design, and an array of additional features. Adhering to Hyundai's latest design language, the base model is equipped with a 48.4 kWh battery pack, delivering an admirable range of 377 km according to the WLTP cycle. While the exact launch date is yet to be confirmed, industry insiders anticipate pricing in the ballpark of Rs 25 lakh.
3. Tata Punch EV
Tata Motors is not keeping its electric ambitions under wraps, and the Tata Punch EV is a testament to that. Spy images circulating online suggest that the launch is imminent, possibly around January 2024. Drawing design inspiration from the successful Nexon EV, the Punch EV is expected to introduce some unique features of its own. Industry experts anticipate that it will be offered in both Standard and Long Range variants, with an attractive expected price of Rs 12 lakh.
4. Tata Curvv EV
Tata Motors is set to make a splash in the SUV coupe category with the Tata Curvv EV. Positioned between the electric variants of the Harrier and Nexon, this model has been spotted testing on multiple occasions, heightening anticipation. Notably, the model will initially be available as an EV before the internal combustion engine (ICE) version hits the market. The anticipated price is Rs 20 lakh, with a targeted launch in March 2024.
5. Tata Harrier EV
Following the recent launch of the new Harrier facelift, Tata Motors is gearing up to introduce an electric variant of this popular SUV in 2024. The Harrier EV is expected to maintain the familiar design language of the regular Harrier but will incorporate specific design elements catering to its electric nature. Tata might offer multiple battery and motor options, including all-wheel-drive (AWD), with a targeted range of around 500 km. The expected price is Rs 30 lakh, with the launch projected for late 2024.
6. Mahindra XUV.e8
The all-electric version of the XUV700, the Mahindra XUV.e8, is anticipated to make its debut towards the end of 2024. Mahindra is considering offering the vehicle with two battery options – 60 kWh and 80 kWh – and various configurations, including single- or dual-motor setups. Although detailed specifications are not yet disclosed, a range of 450 km is expected. The projected price is Rs 35 lakh, with the launch expected at the end of 2024.
7. Mahindra XUV400 Facelift
The facelifted version of the Mahindra XUV400 is currently undergoing road testing. While upgrades aligning with the facelifted XUV300 are anticipated, there might not be significant changes to the battery or powertrain. However, improved software could contribute to an enhanced range. The expected price is Rs 16 lakh, with a projected launch in the second half of 2024.
8. Citroen C3X EV
The Citroen C3X EV is part of a platform that also includes the C3 and C3 Aircross in India. Expected to be available in both ICE and EV versions, the C3X EV boasts a crossover-like design. To distinguish the all-electric variant from its ICE counterpart, Citroen is likely to introduce design changes both inside and out. While specific powertrain details are not public yet, a larger battery and a more powerful motor than the eC3 are expected. The pricing details are yet to be announced, with a projected launch in September 2024.
As the automotive industry in India rapidly evolves toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility solutions these upcoming electric vehicles from various manufacturers exemplify the commitment to technological advancement and environmental consciousness. With a varied selection of possibilities on the horizon consumers can expect an exciting future full of innovative, technologically advanced, and ecologically responsible electric automobiles.