- Three MPVs and one SUV
- Suited for both performance and utility
NEVs (New Energy Vehicles) are gaining traction, especially with the wake of tightening emission norms, coupled with the need of higher efficiency. The most efficient cars are the ones with the highest level of electrification, and this primarily includes strong hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and EVs. We will take a look at the best EV offerings under Rs. 25 lakh (ex-showroom). The listed models will serve both performance and utility purposes.
Tata Sierra EV
The Sierra EV is essentially a Harrier EV under the hood, but a lighter kerb weight essentially makes it a faster electric car. In this case, the Empowered A 75kWh variant comes in at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 24.79 lakh. This variant gets a 3.3kW AC charger, and a rear-wheel-drive layout.
This variant of the Sierra EV is powered by a 75kWh liquid-cooled battery pack paired with 207bhp/315Nm rear motor. Features include a four-way powered driver seat, 19-inch tyres, dual-tone alloys, AR HUD, 540° panoramic view, auto-park, front-row ventilation, and Level 2 ADAS. But this SUV carries issues that Tata is typically known for – QC and aftersales service.
MG Hector Tomahawk EV
JSW MG Motor India’s most recent SUV, the Hector Tomahawk, has been launched with both EV and PHEV powertrains. The top-spec EV, Essence 69kWh, commands an ex-showroom price of Rs. 24.25 lakh, and this is the top-spec variant of the three-row SUV. The Hector Tomahawk EV is powered by a 201bhp/310Nm motor with a front-wheel-drive layout. The battery charges at 7.4kW AC and 90kW DC. It has a claimed range of 517km.
Notable features include all four disc brakes, leatherette upholstery, 15.6-inch centre screen, 8.8-inch instrument cluster, rear-window sunshades, anti-pinch windows, powered driver seat with memory, and AC vents for all three rows. An issue with this SUV is that it offers only one battery pack option.
Kia Carens Clavis EV
The top-spec X-Line ER (Extended Range), powered by the same powertrain as the Hyundai Creta Electric, offers a more dynamic seating option. It is powered by a 51.4kWh battery pack paired with a 169bhp/255Nm motor. It comes in at an exact Rs. 25 lakh ex-showroom price.
Features include dual-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front row, Bose audio, Level 2 ADAS, dual-screen cluster with wireless connectivity, ambient lights, and a recently upgraded lifetime battery warranty. Out of all listed options, the Carens Clavis EV is the only one with an NMC battery pack. Although not a worry per se, LFP units offer more charge cycles and better longevity, as well as better thermal stability.
Vinfast VF MPV 7
This MPV is a direct rival to the Kia Carens Clavis EV. This is a dimensionally larger car, and it also has a stronger powertrain – a 60.13kWh battery pack paired with a 201bhp/280Nm motor, with a claimed range of 517km. With a recent price cut of Rs. 4.10 lakh, it now costs Rs. 20.39 lakh.
Features include dual-zone climate control, 10.1-inch centre screen, dual-zone climate control, and a height-adjustable driver seat. Vinfast is new in India, and its dealer network is not widespread, although it is expanding. It also skips out on powered and ventilated seats, dual-pane sunroof, and rear sunblinds.
