India, known for its vibrant automotive landscape, is gearing up for an electrifying transformation on its roads. As the world moves towards sustainable transportation, the Indian automobile market is witnessing a surge in the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). With advancements in technology and growing environmental consciousness, both established automakers and emerging players are stepping up their game to introduce a wave of upcoming electric cars that promise to redefine the way we commute. In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the most anticipated electric cars set to hit the Indian roads this year, offering eco-friendly solutions without compromising on style, performance, and practicality.
Volvo C40 Recharge
The Volvo C40 Recharge is scheduled to be launched in India towards the end of 2023. It will be Volvo's second all-electric vehicle in the country, following the XC40 Recharge. Based on Volvo's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, which is also utilised by the XC40 Recharge, the C40 Recharge is a compact SUV with a coupe-like roofline. It is equipped with a dual-motor electric powertrain generating 408 horsepower and 660 Nm of torque. The brand claims that the car can go up to 400 kilometres on a single charge.
Standard features of the C40 Recharge include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a Harman Kardon sound system. It is also equipped with various safety features, including Volvo's Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system. The expected price range for the C40 Recharge in India is ₹ 60-70 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with rivals such as the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, BMW i4.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
The launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV in India is anticipated to take place around June 2023, following the release of the EQS sedan in October 2022. Mercedes-Benz offers the EQS SUV with an optional third row, enabling seating for up to seven individuals.
Regarding the battery, charging and range, the EQS is equipped with a 107.8kWh battery pack that can be paired with both single and dual motor configurations. The single motor variant, powering the rear wheels, generates 360PS of power and 568Nm of torque, providing a WLTP-certified range of 660km. In contrast, the dual motor setup, featuring an all-wheel drivetrain, delivers 360PS of power and 800Nm of torque, with a certified range of 613km. The top-spec 580 4MATIC variant boasts impressive figures of 544PS and 858Nm.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, which is priced at ₹ 2 crores, showcases various features, including the MBUX hyperscreen, which integrates a 12.3-inch digital display for the driver and passenger with a 17.7-inch infotainment system. Additionally, the SUV incorporates dual 11.6-inch displays for second-row occupants, multi-zone climate control with air purification, heated and ventilated front seats, and an optional panoramic glass roof.
When it comes to safety, the EQS SUV is equipped with over six airbags, numerous driver assists, automated parking assists, and a 360-degree camera view. In the Indian market, the EQS SUV will face competition from the Audi e-tron SUV and BMW iX.
Tata Punch EV
The Tata Punch EV, an electric vehicle from Tata Motors is expected to be launched around September 2023. The price is anticipated to start from ₹ 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
Regarding the battery pack and range, the Punch EV is likely to offer multiple battery options, with a potential range of up to 350km on a single charge.
In terms of features, The Punch EV will offer seating for five passengers, equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display, semi-digital instrument panel, automatic air conditioning, and steering-mounted controls. Additionally, it may also include automatic headlights, connected car technology, cruise control, and multi-mode regenerative braking.
Safety features of the Punch EV are expected to include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and all-wheel disc brakes. Additionally, Punch EV will compete with the Citroen eC3 and serve as an alternative to the brand’s own Tiago EV. Furthermore, it will provide an affordable alternative to the Nexon EV Prime.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E, an electric SUV that was initially launched in the United States in 2020, is set to make its way to the Indian market in November 2023. The anticipated price for the Ford Mustang Mach-E in India is around ₹ 70 lakh.
The standard features of the car include a vertically oriented 15.5-inch touch screen utilising Ford's latest SYNC 4A software. It also features a large physical volume knob integrated into the touchscreen. The driver is provided with a 10.2-inch instrument cluster. Additionally, the Mach-E offers a 360-degree camera with a washer setup, a panoramic roof, and power-adjustable front seats. Safety features include eight airbags, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Auto Emergency Braking, and more.
The Mach-E offers a choice of two battery packs, a 68kWh unit providing 370 kilometres of range, and a larger 88kWh unit offering up to 491 kilometres of range. Furthermore, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is available in six different colours: Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Shadow Black, Space Gray Metallic, Star White Metallic Tricoat, Iconic Silver Metallic, and Dark Matter Gray Metallic. It will face competition from the Tesla Model Y, Audi e-tron, and Jaguar I-Pace in the market.
Skoda Enyaq iV
Skoda is set to introduce the Enyaq iV, an all-electric SUV, to the Indian market in the fourth quarter of 2023. The Enyaq iV was initially launched in Europe in 2021. Two variants of the Enyaq iV will be available: the Enyaq iV 60 and the Enyaq iV 80.
The Enyaq iV 60 will be equipped with a 62kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 415 kilometres on a single charge. On the other hand, the Enyaq iV 80 will feature an 82kWh battery pack, providing a range of up to 520 kilometres on a single charge.
Both variants will be powered by a single electric motor, generating 177 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. The Enyaq iV can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 8.7 seconds.
Standard features of the Enyaq iV will include a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. Additionally, optional features such as a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad will be available.
The anticipated price of the Skoda Enyaq iV in India is approximately ₹ 60 lakh. It will face competition from the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia EV6 in the market.
Wrapping it all up, the future of mobility in India is undoubtedly electric, and the upcoming electric cars are poised to bring about a significant shift in the automotive landscape. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and performance, these electric vehicles promise to revolutionise transportation and contribute to an optimistic future ahead.