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9 Uber-Cool EVs That Are Redefining The Automobile Industry

Gearing up for a greener tomorrow, India’s Electric Vehicle (EV) landscape is ever-growing. Discover our line-up of nine electrifying rides across segments, steering you towards sustainability and cleaner streets.

By NIKHIL P MERCHANT

BUDGET BUYS

ECO EXPRESSION: CITROËN Ë-C3 ALL ELECTRIC

Global automaker Stellantis recently launched this hatchback to champion its mission aimed at mitigating climate change. As the brand plans to become carbon net zero by 2038, the vehicle serves as a catalyst for their leadership role in decarbonisation. The stylish EV blends comfort and well-being, ensuring every journey, whether on winding roads, serene beaches, or rugged hills, is a seamless experience. An affordable full-BEV (battery electric vehicle), it’s tailored for the young and progressive, addressing the unique needs of Indian drivers who’re seeking clever tech in cool-looking rides. With a certified range of 320 kilometres per charge, 100 per cent DC fast charging, intuitive tech features, the Ë-C3 is an expression in harmony. From ₹12.69 lakh; citroen.in

URBAN DYNAMO: TATA PUNCH.EV

Compact SUVs are blessings for an urban driver and this one truly packs a punch! Tata Motors’ latest eco-friendly powerhouse, this EV is a sustainable statement wrapped in a sleek SUV design, riding smooth on its innovative Acti.ev (Advanced Connected Tech-Intelligent Electric Vehicle) platform. A tech-lover’s dream, it boasts features like the Arcade.ev entertainment system and an integrated air purifier, ensuring a clean, connected ride. The car surprises with ample space for five adults and a whopping 366-litre boot capacity. Promising a range of 315 to 421 kilometres (depending on the battery size) and an IP67-rated protection against dust and water, it’s built to last through many adventures. From ₹10.99 lakh; tatamotors.com

STELLAR VOYAGER: MG COMET EV

Good things come in small packages, and this EV is thrice the fun with its three distinct variants—Executive, Excite, and Exclusive. With over 55 connected car features and 100+ voice commands through the i-SMART Intelligent Tech Dashboard, a special Gamer Edition, and LIT packs offering 250+ sticker options, you are in for a circus of fun within its confines. Sustainability takes centre stage as it boasts a range of eco-conscious features: from its 17.3 kWh Li-ion battery with prismatic cells to its IP67-rated construction, which ensure its durability and longevity. From ₹6.99 lakh; mgmotor.co.in

MID-SEGMENT MAGIC

ELECTRIC TRAILBLAZER: TATA NEXON EV EMPOWERED PLUS LONG RANGE

Pioneering India’s electric revolution since 2020, the Nexon EV has transformed into a true marvel on wheels. Fresh from a mid-cycle enhancement, the latest iteration of India’s top-selling EV heralds a new era in the country’s automotive landscape. With a bold digital design language, a futuristic, tech-inspired driving experience, and intuitive features accessible via gadgets, it’s a game-changer with style and substance. Featuring a 12-inch infotainment screen by HarmanTM and a 9-speaker JBL sound system, it offers a breezy digital driving experience along with the Arcade.ev. With its advanced Vehicle-to-Vehicle and Vehicle-to-Load charging technologies, and a range of around 465 kilometres in a single charge, this EV is raising the bar for its competitors. As a plus, with its 40.5 kWh LFP battery pack, fast charging from 10 to 80 per cent takes just 56 minutes! With several variants in this range, the limited-edition Empowered Plus Long Range Dark Edition is one of its exclusives. From ₹19.49 lakh; tatamotors.com

GREEN GUARDIAN: MG ZS EV

For a mid-segment vehicle, this one isn’t just an electric SUV, it’s a statement of eco-conscious luxury. Its PM 2.5 filters integrated into the AC unit permeate purified air into the cabin, while the expansive sunroof allows one to bask in natural light—even in urban chaos. This smart SUV also stores energy thanks to the Kinetic Energy Recovery System and boasts a 44.5-kWh battery, which is the largest in the EV SUV Segment. Head out on your weekend getaways with features like Hill Descent Control and CO2 tracking via the i-SMART app for some eco-friendly fun! With three drive modes—Eco, Sport, and Normal—it puts control right at your fingertips. The Cruise Control and Electric Parking Brake features add convenience, while heated ORVMs ensure visibility in all conditions. A lifestyle choice for the eco-savvy urbanite! From ₹18.98 to 25.20 lakh; mgmotor.co.in

DREAM DRIVES: BYD ALL-NEW E6

BYD made its e6 EV debut in 2022, with one of India’s first premium segment MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) entering the India Book of Records for covering 2,203 kilometres in six days! This was part of a cross-country initiative called ‘Sustainable Drive for a Sustainable India’, whose route passed through eco-sensitive zones around national parks. Featuring state-of- the-art technology crafted on the BYD e-Platform, it marries efficiency with luxury, offering a remarkable 520-kilometre range powered by the renowned Blade Battery for utmost safety. With a dramatic dragon face design, LEDs, and a capacious 580-litre boot space, it’s targeted at fleet owners looking for an exquisite, luxe drive. From ₹29.15 lakh; bydautoindia.com

TOP-TIER DRIVES

SLEEK PIONEER: HYUNDAI IONIQ 5

With sustainable luxury at its core, this EV boasts leather interiors dyed using flaxseed oil, carpet fabrics featuring bio components extracted from sugarcane and corn, 100 per cent recyclable paperette doors made from HDPE, and recycled bottles shredded into plastic chips for the setback and armrests. With high-ground clearance, charging capacity of 10 to 80 per cent in 18 minutes, and a seamless, silent drive, this one is a force to reckon with in the world of EVs. What’s more: the IONIQ 6, a sedan, has been announced for launch next year! From ₹46.05 lakh; hyundai.co.in

PRESTIGE ADVENTURER: BMW IX XDRIVE50

Sustainability runs deep in the veins of this iconic brand as it sets a new standard for responsible luxury. Continuing their new design lineage with an instantly recognisable large ‘smart’ kidney grille and narrow headlights, this EV boasts a striking single-piece widescreen BMW Curved Glass Display and race-car inspired hexagonal steering wheel, offering an exhilarating journey. Its dual, floor mounted, high-voltage batteries, with a combined capacity of 111.5 kWh, provide a range of up to 635 kilometres. From opulent interiors to its lightning-fast charging, every detail reflects BMW’s sheer prestige in the line of luxury EVs. From ₹1.39 crore; bmw.in

E FOR EMOTION: KIA EV6

This is the whole package if there ever was one! Get ready to be cocooned in upholstery using sustainable suede and vegan leather, as well as cabin details that are meticulously crafted from eco-conscious materials. The new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) introduces a flat floor promising comfort and utility. And beneath the surface lies a spirited performer: the powerful electric motor’s 605 Nm torque gives instantaneous acceleration, while a low centre of gravity offers race-car-like handling. And did we mention: it goes from 0 to 100 kilometres/hour in 5.2 seconds! From ₹60.97 lakh; kia.com

UPCOMING EVOLUTION: TATA CURVV

In a move expected to storm the market in the coming months this year, the upcoming concept CURVV is Tata Motors’ exciting rendition of the modern SUV typology. The sporty coupe-body style, largely prevalent in the high-end luxury segment, will be integrated with its raised height, tough cladding, and aerodynamic theme to make a true-blue new-age EV. Expect uncluttered interiors, a large panoramic roof bringing in natural light, and a design face that will truly be ahead of the ‘curve’.

Price: TBA; tatamotors.com

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