India Set For An Influx Of SUV And Electric Vehicle Launches By Major Manufacturers

Published: Sunday, June 23, 2024, 12:00 [IST]

India is getting ready for a series of SUV releases, which will also include electric vehicle (EV) models from leading car manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, JSW MG Motor, and Mercedes-Benz.

These launches are anticipated within the next six to eight months. Despite facing obstacles like charging infrastructure issues and increased costs, these fresh additions highlight the automotive sector's commitment to eco-friendly transportation.

Upcoming Tata Models

Tata Motors will be the first to expand its EV portfolio. Last year, it captured nearly 70% of the electric vehicle market in India with green versions of Nexon and Punch SUVs, Tiago hatchback, and Tigor mini sedan.

The company plans to introduce the Harrier EV, a green version of its existing diesel-engine Harrier model. Currently priced upwards of Rs 17 lakh (on-road), the electric version is expected to be slightly more expensive. This reflects Tata Motors' aggressive pricing strategy seen with the Nexon EV, which matches the cost of its diesel counterpart.

In addition to the Harrier EV, Tata Motors is set to launch the Curvv, a crossover showcased at the Auto Expo. The Curvv will be available in both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) versions. "The plan is to launch both EV and ICE versions together," a Tata Motors official stated. The Curvv is anticipated to be priced around Rs 15 lakh, depending on its battery capacity.

Upcoming Models from Hyundai, Kia, MG

Hyundai will introduce the Creta electric, while Kia will unveil the luxury EV9. The EV9 is expected to be priced around Rs 1 crore. Both brands aim to expand their electric vehicle offerings in the Indian market. JSW MG Motor, which currently offers the ZS and Comet EVs, plans to launch the Cloud EV. This crossover utility vehicle is already available in some markets under different badges by the company's Chinese parent, SAIC. The Cloud EV is expected to be priced under Rs 20 lakh and positioned below the ZS.

Mahindra and Maruti's Electric Plans

Mahindra & Mahindra is preparing to launch an electric version of its XUV7OO model. This release will follow closely after the company's first born electric model (BE 05). The XUV7OO electric is projected to be priced under Rs 20 lakh.

Maruti Suzuki, India's largest carmaker, is also gearing up to enter the EV market. The brand is set to debut its first EV based on the eVX concept SUV at the Auto Expo in 2025. The eVX concept features a battery capacity of 60kWh and a single-charge range of 550 km. Maruti Suzuki's EV model is expected to be priced in the Rs 10-15 lakh range, depending on the battery size chosen by the company.

Mercedes-Benz

On the luxury front, Mercedes-Benz will introduce the EQA around August. This will add it as the smallest electric car in its portfolio. Mercedes-Benz aims for EVs to account for a quarter of its sales by 2026. The company already offers EQS luxury saloon, EQB, and EQE electrics in India.

India's automotive landscape is set for significant transformation with these upcoming launches. This reflects a collective move towards sustainable and electric mobility despite continuing challenges in infrastructure and cost.