The electric vehicle (EV) segment is charging up in India, with several highly anticipated models set to launch over the next few years. As consumer interest and government support for EVs grow, automakers are betting big on bringing exciting new electric cars tailored to the Indian market.
This definitive guide takes an in-depth look at 15 upcoming electric cars that have the potential to transform transportation in India. Whether you’re an eco-conscious buyer looking to make the switch to electric, or an EV enthusiast excited about the next generation of vehicles, there’s something here for you.
Buyer’s Guide to India’s Electric Car Revolution
Eco-Conscious Urbanite Tips:
- Hyundai Creta EV: A familiar design, competitive range, and modern features within a budget-friendly package, expected to launch in late 2024.
- Tata Punch EV: Ideal for zipping around the city with a 250-300km range, potentially the most affordable EV in India, tentatively launching in December 2023.
- MG eHS: Offers sleek styling, strong range, and advanced features targeting established players, set to launch in 2024.
Performance Enthusiast Tips:
- Hyundai New Santa Fe EV: A spacious SUV with sporty dual-motor performance and impressive range, expected in late 2024.
- Skoda Enyaq iV: Featuring a sleek design, multiple range options, and generous interior space with intuitive tech, launching in mid-2024.
- Audi Q6 e-tron: Futuristic aesthetics, strong real-world range, and luxury features at a competitive price, launching in 2024.
Adventurous Soul Tips:
- Tata Harrier EV: Futuristic design, strong range, and modern features in a competitively priced electric SUV, launching in June 2024.
- Jeep Avenger: Rugged exterior, off-road capabilities, and sustainable power for eco-friendly adventures, launching in 2024.
- Volkswagen ID.4: Sleek design, generous range, premium tech, and a roomy interior for practical adventures, potentially launching in May 2024.
Tech-Savvy Trendsetter Tips:
- OLA Electric Car: A bespoke platform focusing on performance, luxurious interior, and cutting-edge features, tentatively launching in late 2024.
- Fisker Ocean: Sporty, sustainable luxury with an impressive range and an advanced vegan interior, tentatively launching in February 2024.
- Tesla India Entry: Cutting-edge tech, impressive range, and rapid acceleration in the premium segment, potentially starting with Model 3 in 2024.
Overall Tips:
- Charging Infrastructure: While the EV market booms, charging infrastructure is still evolving. Plan charging needs accordingly.
- Research and Compare: Thoroughly research and compare models based on budget, needs, and driving habits before deciding.
- Test Drive: Experience features and performance firsthand by taking the cars for a test drive.
Remember, the shift to electric vehicles isn’t just about personal transportation; it’s about constructing a cleaner, more sustainable future!
Hyundai Creta EV
Launch Timeframe
Late 2024 global debut, early 2025 India launch
Key Specs (based on reports and leaks)
- 45kWh LG battery
- 138hp electric motor
- 300-350km estimated range
What to Expect
- Familiar Creta design
- Competitive range
- Modern features aligned with Hyundai’s offerings
- Potential for good value based on pricing
Considerations
- Specs and features subject to change
- Official pricing未announced
- Facing emerging competition
Tata Curvv EV
Launch Target
April 2024
Positioning
Aims to compete with Nexon EV, XUV400 EV, ZS EV
Specifications (based on available information)
- New bespoke EV platform
- 400-450km expected range
- Power and performance still undisclosed
Expected Attributes
- Sleek, futuristic design
- Focus on extended range
- Modern interiors and technology
- Competitive Pricing
Points to Note
- Final specifications TBC
- Pricing is yet to be revealed
- Intensifying competition in the segment
BYD Seal
India Launch ETA
2024
Market Position
Aims to compete with similar EVs on performance, specs, and pricing
Known Specs (based on available information)
- New ground-up EV platform
- Long range from a large battery
- Performance details still under wraps
Likely Offerings
- Aerodynamic, future-focused aesthetics
- Strong range for daily and longer trips
- Advanced features and technology
- Competitive pricing aimed at established players
Open Questions
- Exact specifications and equipment TBC
- Official pricing is yet to come
- New players rapidly entering the EV space
MG eHS
Expected Launch
2024 in India
Positioning
Seeks to compete on performance, features, and pricing
Known Details (based on available information)
- New EV-focused platform
- Large battery for a competitive range
- Motor details are still undisclosed
Expected Attributes
- Sleek, aerodynamic styling
- Strong focus on a range
- Modern technologies on offer
- Aimed at being price-competitive
Considerations
- Final specs subject to change
- Pricing still TBA
- Fast-growing competition in EV space
Skoda Enyaq iV
Expected Launch
Mid-2024 in India
Target Market
Eco-conscious drivers wanting a practical yet stylish SUV
Known Powertrain Details (based on available information)
- Based on the dedicated MEB EV platform
- Choice of battery sizes
- Power output options up to 302hp
Expected Characteristics
- Sleek, futuristic design
- Choice of range options
- Generous interior space
- Intuitive tech and connectivity
Points to Evaluate
- India pricing is yet to be set
- Local charging infrastructure limits
- Variability in specs across trims
Audi Q6 e-tron
Expected India Launch
2024
Positioning
Seeks to compete with similar luxury EVs on performance, features, and pricing
Known Details (based on available information)
- Built on a dedicated EV platform
- Large battery for a competitive range
- Performance details still under wraps
Expected Attributes
- Sleek, futuristic aesthetics
- Strong real-world range
- Luxury features and tech
- Competitively priced
Considerations
- Final India specs TBC
- Pricing is yet to be revealed
- Intense competition in the luxury EV space
Citroen eC3 Aircross
India Launch Timeline
2024
Target Market
Seeks to compete with similar compact EVs on specs and pricing
Known Details (based on available information)
- Based on a new EV-focused platform
- Large battery for a solid range
- Performance details still unknown
Expected Characteristics
- Sleek, futuristic styling
- Strong focus on a range
- Modern comfort and tech features
- Competitively priced
Points to Note
- Final specs subject to change
- India pricing is still TBA
- Emerging competition in the space
Tata Harrier EV
Expected Launch
June 2024 in India
Positioning
Seeks to compete with similar electric SUVs on performance, features, and pricing
Known Powertrain Details (based on available information)
- Based on internal combustion Harrier
- Features all-wheel drive
- Performance details still undisclosed
What to Expect
- Futuristic and aerodynamic design
- Strong real-world range
- Modern comfort and tech features
- Competitively priced from Rs. 22-25 lakhs
Considerations
- Final specifications TBC
- Pricing is yet to be revealed
- Expanding competition in the EV SUV segment
Volkswagen ID.4
Expected India Launch
Potentially May 2024
Target Customer
Eco-focused drivers wanting a stylish and practical electric SUV
Known Specifications (based on available information)
- Dedicated MEB EV platform
- Battery range options up to 443km
- Power output choices from 201hp to 302hp
Standout Characteristics
- Sleek, futuristic styling
- Generous real-world range
- Premium tech and connectivity
- Roomy and flexible interior space
Evaluation Points
- India pricing remains uncertain
- Local charging infrastructure may be limited
- Variability in specs across variants
Tata Punch EV
Expected Launch
December 2023 (tentative) in India
Target Customer
Budget-focused urbanites seeking an affordable EV
Known Powertrain Details (based on leaks and reports)
- Upgraded platform from ICE Punch
- 26kWh battery for 250-300km range
- 75PS motor output
Standout Characteristics
- Familiar design with green accents
- Zippy drive for nimble city driving
- Range suitable for daily urban use
- Potential to be the most affordable EV in India
Things to Consider
- Specifications may change
- Limited charging infrastructure
- Higher trim pricing could increase
Fisker Ocean
India Launch Timeline
February 2024 (tentative)
Positioning
Seeks premium EV space with a sustainability focus
Global Model Specs (based on global launch)
- Proprietary FF29 platform
- 560km max range
- Up to 540HP power output
Expected Highlights
- Sporty, sustainable luxury
- Impressive real-world range
- Lavish recycled/vegan interior materials
- Advanced driving assistance tech
Evaluation Aspects
- India variant details may differ
- Likely high asking price
- Charging infrastructure gaps in places
OLA Electric Car
Expected Launch
Late 2024 in India (tentative)
Target Market
Premium EV segment, challenging established players
Known Details
- Bespoke EV platform focused on performance
- Battery details still undisclosed
- Hints of exhilarating power and acceleration
What to Expect
- Futuristic, progressive design
- Luxurious and spacious interior
- Cutting-edge tech features
- Potentially competitive pricing
Things to Note
- Specs and details remain largely unknown
- Pricing is a crucial undetermined factor
- Faces fierce competition from entrenched rivals
Jeep Avenger
Launch Timeline
2024 initially in Europe, followed by other markets
Target Customer
Eco-focused adventurers wanting a stylish, versatile compact electric SUV
Known Details (based on available information)
- Based on the dedicated CMP-eCMP platform
- Estimated 340-400km range
- 130-200hp expected power output
Standout Features
- Rugged exterior with a compact footprint
- Off-road ready with Selec-Terrain® system
- Sustainable powerplant for eco-friendly adventures
- Fun, youthful character throughout
Aspects to Evaluate
- Specifications remain under development
- Official pricing is yet to be announced
- Charging infrastructure variability in regions
Hyundai New Santa Fe EV
Expected Launch
Late 2024, likely as a 2025 model year vehicle
Target Customer
Eco-focused families and adventurers seeking a spacious EV SUV
Reported Details (based on speculation and leaks)
- Based on the adapted E-GMP platform
- Estimated 400-450km range
- Potential for sporty dual-motor performance
Expected Attributes
- Familiar Santa Fe design with EV tweaks
- Strong real-world range
- Spacious and flexible 5-seater interior
- Latest Hyundai tech and safety features
Points to Consider
- Specifications still emerging
- India pricing is yet to be revealed
- Charging infrastructure variability
Tesla India Entry
Expected Launch
Potentially 2024 in India
Target Segment
The premium sector focused on tech-savvy high-performance EV buyers
Anticipated Models
- Initially Model 3 sedan, followed by the Model Y SUV
- Prospects of Model X and Model S
Notable Expectations
- Cutting-edge driving assistance tech
- Impressive real-world range
- Rapid acceleration and sharp handling
Evaluation Aspects
- Likely high pricing
- Developing charging infrastructure
- Increasing competition in luxury EVs
Rolls-Royce Spectre
Expected India Arrival
Late 2024
Positioning
Pinnacle of silent electric luxury and bespoke personalization
Known Details (as revealed so far)
- Adapted Architecture of Luxury EV platform
- 500+ kilometer estimated range
- 571hp and AWD from dual motors
Standout Characteristics
- Iconic Rolls-Royce styling cues evolved for EV
- Effortless and serene performance
- Unrivaled personalization options
Considerations
- Extremely high, undisclosed pricing
- Charging planning is essential for long trips
- Pedestrian-friendly sound emission required
This is just the beginning of the Indian EV odyssey. With innovation buzzing and competition intensifying, the coming years promise an exhilarating ride. From budget-friendly city zippers to luxurious performance beasts, there’s something for everyone in this electric playground. So, keep your eyes peeled, stay charged up, and join the revolution! Remember, the key to unlocking the full potential of EVs lies in building robust charging infrastructure and fostering a collective shift towards sustainable mobility. Together, we can electrify not just our roads, but also our commitment to a cleaner, greener future for India. So, what are you waiting for? Take your pick, hop in, and experience the thrilling future of Indian transportation – one electron at a time!