It’s time to take a look at the top makes and models of the EV segment arriving in India in 2022. While some are indeed promising, others ensure massive updates to existing series. Either way, it’s been a great year for the EV space.
So, as we bid farewell to the year, let’s take a quick look at the new brands and EVs arriving in India in 2022. Here are our top picks, filled with hope, expectations and, of course, plenty of range.
Also read: Goodbye 2022: The electric two-wheelers launched that impress us the most
1. BYD Atto 3
Chinese auto giant BYD entered the passenger car market last year, but will not actually enter the private car market until 2022. The automaker first made the e6 MPV available to private buyers and unveiled the powerful Atto 3 a few weeks ago. The BYD Atto 3 is an electric compact SUV, as we discovered during our first drive , it is an extremely powerful machine. The electric offering promises more than 201 horsepower, a range of 521 kilometers and many features. The quirky looks leave their mark, too, as does the quality fit and finish. High pricing might put it off, but there’s a lot to like about the Atto 3 and BYD’s direction.
WATCH: BYD Atto 3: First drive review
2. Mercedes-Benz EQB/EQS
In the EV space, Mercedes-Benz India is in top offensive shape. Not only has the automaker brought its global flagships like the EQS and EQS 53 AMG to the Indian market, but the two models are also locally assembled. It clearly shows the brand’s commitment to the Indian market and segment. Not only that, but the automaker also unveiled the EQB electric SUV this year. The new offering is the manufacturer’s most accessible EV in India and offers comfortable seven-seat practicality. This is just the beginning of Mercedes’ EV offensive, with more planned for the next few years.
Also read: Goodbye 2022: Hot Indian concept cars winning hearts and minds
3. Kia EV6
Making its debut in the EV market this year is Kia India. The automaker unveiled the EV6 electric SUV this year, promising ample range and a dynamic driving experience. Arriving as a complete unit (CBU), the model has been well received and most of the units allocated to India are sold out. The Kia EV6 is premium, fun and highly functional, making it a perfect fit for our customers’ needs. On the bright side, Kia plans to reveal the EV9 at the upcoming 2023 Auto Expo, so rest assured there will be more EVs to come.
4. Volvo XC40 charging
The Volvo brand is known for its great products and this year, we finally launched the brand’s first all-electric offering in India. The Volvo XC40 Recharge is the brand’s most accessible electric car in the country and a rival to Kia’s EV6. It’s roomy, practical and functional, exactly what you’d expect from the Swedish automaker. It’s also pretty good, as we found out in our review. Volvo plans to launch at least one new EV for India every year, and we’re pretty excited.
Also read: Goodbye 2022: Major events shaping Indian auto industry this year
5. Tata Tiago EV
Tata Motors has been a pioneer in the EV space in recent years and managed to take the mainstream space with the Tiago EV.Pricing from ¥From 849,000 (ex-showroom), the Tiago EV is a real, affordable and practical option for customers looking to switch to electric vehicles. Pricing is correct, with a range of 250 kilometers (lower model) and 315 kilometers (higher model) on a single charge. The Tata Tiago EV will pave the way for more models, which will make EVs more accessible to the masses.
6. Ultraviolet F77
Shifting from cars to electric two-wheelers, Bengaluru-based startup Ultraviolette Automotive has finally launched its first product this year. The F77 is India’s fastest accelerating electric motorcycle and has racked up some jaw-dropping performance figures. The bike delivers around 38 hp and 95 Nm of torque on a single charge and has a range of 307 km (ARAI certified). The bike has a top speed of 147 km/h and sports jet fighter-inspired styling. Expectations are high for the Ultraviolette, which will start deliveries from Bengaluru next month.
7. Vida from Hero MotoCorp
Hero MotoCorp is entering the EV space with a new Vida sub-brand, and the new V1 electric scooter holds a lot of promise. It rivals, and in some regions surpasses, the best electric scooters on sale right now. Coupled with Hero’s vast experience in selling two-wheelers, hopes are high for Vida to go mainstream, not only in India but also in developed countries. The Vida V1 won’t be available to customers until next year and we can’t wait to get on one as soon as possible.
Also read: Goodbye 2022: 5 key developments in India’s auto industry
special mention
Tata Motors and MG Motor India also had some big influences this year. Not only did Tata launch the long-range Nexon EV Prime this year, it also showed the future of its EV business with concepts like the Curvv and Avinya, previewing what the Gen 3 electric model might look like. Next, MG launched the ZS EV facelift this year, bringing sweeping changes to the electric compact SUV. The brand also showcased the Air EV, which will be its most affordable EV in India and will be unveiled at Auto Expo 2023.
First published date: December 27, 2022 at 19:47 PM CST
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