India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is at an inflection point. EVs accounted for about 5 percent of total vehicle sales between October 2022 and September 2023—and they can reach more than 40 percent penetration by 2030, as per a report.
Two-wheeler EVs form the majority of EV sales today, accounting for 85–90 percent of all EV units sold in India, followed by four-wheeler EVs (7%–9% of sales) and 3-wheeler EVs (5%–7% of sales).
In 2023, numerous automakers, spanning both the mainstream and luxury sectors, have introduced impressive electric vehicles across various price ranges.
Let us take a look at some of the most talked-about EV launches in 2023:
Tata Nexon EV Facelift
As we talk about electric cars, Tata Motors is the first automaker that comes to mind of every Indian. With a large portfolio of EVs, Tata Motors has the largest market share in India.
One of the most notable car debuts in India in 2023 was the introduction of the Nexon EV facelift. The domestic automaker elevated the allure of this electric compact SUV with the launch of the Nexon facelift, incorporating a wide array of design and feature enhancements.
Price starting at Rs14.74 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nexon EV facelift boasts an impressive 465-kilometre range on a single charge, with an ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 8.9 seconds.
Mahindra XUV400 EV
The Mahindra XUV400 EV is a C1-segment electric SUV with seating for up to 5 occupants and costs between Rs15.99 lakh and Rs18.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This electric SUV offers two distinct battery options and ensures an impressive range of up to 456 km on a single charge. The Mahindra XUV400 is available in two variants, EC and EL.
MG Comet EV
MG Comet EV is the most affordable electric car in India. This small boxy hatchback looks tiny compared to other models in the fray, but a perfect machine for in and around-city commuting. MG Comet EV was launched in 2023 at an introductory starting price of Rs 7.98 lakh (ex-showroom).
The electric hatchback threw a tough challenge to the Tata Tiago EV, the erstwhile most affordable electric car in India with its pricing. Design-wise, the EV is eye-catching on the exterior, while inside the cabin it looks simple yet very much urban at the same time. The Comet EV promises a 230 km range on a single charge.
Citroen eC3
Citroen, despite being a newcomer to the Indian passenger vehicle market, swiftly introduced an electric car in the form of the eC3. Priced from Rs 11.50 lakh (ex-showroom), this electric SUV boasts the highest range in its segment, offering an impressive 320 kilometers on a single charge.
The Citroen eC3 EV is available in four different variants, powered by a 29.2 kWh battery pack that ensures the promised extensive range. With a top speed of 107 kmph, this electric SUV is making a notable mark in the industry.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Volvo C40 Recharge is the second electric car in India from the Swedish luxury car manufacturer after the XC40 Recharge. The electric car was launched at 261.25 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV competes with rivals such as Kia EV6 and Hyundai Loniq 5. The EV gets power from a 78 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The EV churns out 402 bhp peak power and 660 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is capable of running at a top speed of 180 kmph and can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in 4.7 seconds.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 marks the second entry of the South Korean automaker into the Indian electric car market. Launched at ₹44.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Ioniq 5 competes with the Kia EV6, offering a more budget-friendly option than its rebadged counterpart. Propelled by a 72.6 kWh battery pack, the Ioniq 5 boasts an impressive 631-kilometre range on a single charge with a rear-wheel drivetrain delivering 214 bhp peak power and 350 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is equipped with fast-charging technology, enabling the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes.