GREEN WHEELS

Responsible mobility is the next big thing in cars. Here’s our selection of electric vehicles (EVs) expected to take over the Indian market in 2022.

By RIAAN JACOB GEORGE

BMW IX EV

The German luxury carmaker’s all-electric SUV recently made its India debut. BMW’s iX EV comes with a dual lithium-ion battery pack that promises a maximum range of 425 kms on a full charge. With an increased focus on fast charging, the battery can be charged up to
80 per cent in about half an hour, using a DC fast charger. The iX’s interiors are luxurious and decidedly sporty with a 14.9-inch touchscreen for infotainment, a stylish steering wheel, ambient lighting, a Harmon Kardon sound system, plush leather seats,
and a panoramic sunroof.
bmw.in

MG ZS EV

We absolutely loved the first iteration of MG Motor’s first EV release, the ZS EV, which floored us with its performance and tech specs. Now, the new ZS EV comes with a larger battery, which means a longer range (the previous model promises about 419 km/hour in a full charge). The car has also replaced the signature chrome MG grille for
a new textured front face. Inside, MG ticks all the boxes as a leader in terms of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and MG’s i-Smart connectivity platforms.
mgmotor.co.in

AUDI RS E-TRON GT

This stunning, engineering masterpiece promises a maximum charging range of 481 km/hour (WLTP) and its battery churns out an electric output of 440 kW, giving a 0-100 km/hour sprint in an impressive 3.3 seconds. Externally, the Audi has a distinct stance, with its bold lines and elongated wheelbase—we love the animated light strip stretching across the rear for dramatic effect. The interiors reflect Audi’s philosophy of sports supercars, with leather and metallic finishes.
audi.in

JAGUAR I-PACE

We recently test drove the gorgeous Jaguar I-PACE around Mumbai and it’s safe to say, it’s a head turner. We absolutely love this EV’s sporty stance, the huge 22-inch wheels, and the door handles that flush in and out on unlocking. In terms of performance, this is a pure beast, attaining a maximum speed of 200 km/hour and sprints from
0 to 100 km/hour in 4.8 seconds, thanks to its 90-kW battery. The car claims an official range of 480 km on full charge. The interiors are stunning, with leather accents, an infotainment touchscreen, and a Meridian 3D surround sound system. Jaguar has tied up with Tata Power for their charging infrastructure.
jaguar.in

VOLVO XC40 RECHARGE

The XC40 Recharge is, as you would expect, the electric version of Volvo’s mid-sized SUV, the XC40. The EV reportedly promises a range of over 400 kms on a full charge. Volvo is known for its focus on passenger safety and so, the car will come packed with a bevy of safety features and creature comforts, all with the signature Scandinavian design sensibility that we have always loved in these cars. This SUV will come to India as a completely built unit (CBU).
volvocars.com

TATA NEXON EV DARK EDITION

Built on India’s first 5-star rated Nexon platform, Tata Nexon EV is the country’s highest selling EV. The battery packs in 245 Nm of torque, sprinting it from 0 to 100 km/hour in 9.9 seconds. The Nexon EV promises a full charge range of 312 km. Tata Motors boasts the largest public charging network in India, with which the Nexon EV can be charged up to 80 per cent in just an hour.
tatamotors.in

REIMAGINE YOUR HOME

Add a touch of green with these sustainable,
eco-friendly home décor labels.
By NASRIN MODAK SIDDIQI

BARO MARKET

Born out of entrepreneur Srila Chatterjee’s passion for Indian art, design, and craft, Baro Market is a platform for indigenous culture, community, and a commitment to conscious living. Ethically sourced from home-grown brands and grassroots craftsmen, her eclectic range of products includes apparel, artwork, home décor, stationery, natural edibles like ghee and pickles, as well as beauty and wellness items such as scented candles, soaps, oils, and more. These specially curated collections are modestly priced and a celebration of beauty, creativity, and all things original.
baromarket.in

ROOM THERAPY

This home furnishings store in Jubilee Hills—famous for its big, blue door—was founded by designer Sona Reddy and is renowned for an elegantly curated collection of décor pieces from India and around the world. You’re certain to be drawn to the many exquisite creations here, including the quaint wine holders, the cane-and-wood chair upholstered in a rich pink-orange fabric, and the carved, mock-antique cupboard, all of which reflect the designer’s taste. With an ambience that recalls nature in all its vibrant colours and textures, a walk in this store is a treat for the senses.
@roomtherapy, 885, Rd Number 45, Masthan Nagar, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

OORJAA

Lighting up your homes, the eco-friendly way, this Bengaluru-based design studio creates beautifully designed, sustainable lamps using upcycled elements like banana fibre, stone-quarry dust, and waste cork. Founded by Jenny Pinto in partnership with Radeesh Shetty of The Purple Turtles, Oorjaa even recycles their in-house waste. All these processed materials are then handcrafted into a wide selection of lamps by a team of highly trained artisans. Each design is distinctive in appearance and representative of a nature-inspired aesthetic; while some are perfect for creating a cosy home vibe, others blend easily in a professional setting.
oorjaa.in

HIIH

Upgrade the ordinary with this design-led, artisan-made artefacts and décor brand by interior designer Reshma Chhabria Kumar. Based out of Tokyo and Mumbai, the label reflects a sophisticated mix of Japanese aesthetics along with Indian values, materials, and intricacy. From copper planters and urlis (decorative water bowls) to wall sculptures and candleholders—in minimalist patterns and styles—their elegant products are inspired by Japanese simplicity and design details, crafted by skilled artisans from both countries.
htohshop.com

CONSCIOUS COUTURE

Give your closet a responsible makeover with brands that support thrift and pre-loved luxury.
By AAKRITI JASWANT

SARITORIA

The brainchild of fashion entrepreneur Pernia Qureshi and power couple Shehlina and Omar Soomro, Saritoria is a global platform that sells pre-loved South Asian designer outfits. Distinctive in its approach, the label boasts clothing by Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Manish Malhotra, Rohit Bal, and others among its collections. The founders believe in promoting a global circular economy while preserving South Asian craftsmanship. Building a designer closet in a cost-conscious manner just became a reality. And we love it!
saritoria.com

BOMBAY CLOSET CLEANSE

A quirky online thrift store founded by Sana Khan, Bombay Closet Cleanse is on a mission to create less waste and prevent clothing from reaching our mounting landfills. Their website is your one-stop destination for everything cool, at great prices. From a Yankees Varsity Jacket to a luxury Hugo Boss Marque Tie—they have an eclectic mix of clothing. A twist in the tale? You can even buy a Philips stereo record player from their vintage collectibles selection!
bombayclosetcleanse.in

MIRINWON

A Northeast Indian treasure in the world of thrift stores, Mirinwon was established with a dream to combine a love for fashion with sustainability. Founder Ngahon Tungshangnao, who runs his Manipur-based store from Instagram, personally ensures the hygiene process of each clothing item sold through his platform. The brand is rooted in the philosophy of ‘bringing the past to the present’ and the venture has an eclectic collection of both vintage and thrift pieces. Occasionally, you may also find designer items from brands such as Miu Miu, Ralph Lauren, and Louis Vuitton to glam up your closet.
@mirinwonofficial

MY LUXURY BARGAIN

A paradise for pre-owned luxury lovers, My Luxury Bargain is a game changer in the Indian luxury market space. Founded by Raghavendera Singh Raghav, the website has an extensive range of products, including handbags, scarves, watches, and shoes from brands such as Chanel, Goyard, Hermes, Gucci, and Bvlgari among others—all available at up to 70 per cent off their retail prices. The cherry on top? A ‘Negotiate Tab’ that allows buyers to bargain the luxury items’ prices with the sellers!
myluxurybargain.com

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