Kia is once again making headlines in the Indian automotive space, and this time it is with the anticipated launch of its 7-seater electric vehicle, the Kia Carens EV.
Following the recently launched Carens Clavis MPV (which has a starting price of Rs 11.50 lakh, ex-showroom), the Carens EV was recently spied testing on the road, which indicates that it may launch in the coming months.
No Direct Rival Yet, But Plenty of Competition
With its launch, Kia Carens EV will enter a comparatively open segment, with no direct competitors.
However, it will soon indirectly compete with the likes of MG Windsor EV, BYD eMax7, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra XUV.e9 and BE6, and Hyundai Creta EV.
Ex- showroom prices are projected to start around Rs 16 lakh making the Carens EV a value for money electric family MPV.
Expected Powertrain and Range
While Kia have not confirmed any technical specifications, it is speculated that the Carens EV will borrow the 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs which are likely to feature in the upcoming Creta EV. These units might give a range of 390 km and 473 km respectively based on MIDC testing cycles and thus, the Carens EV is viable for longer family drives.
The test vehicle also showed a front-mounted charging port, which adds to the design similarities of other new-generation EVs in the class.
Packed With ADAS & Safety Features
Safety won't be an issue. Another spy image shows an ADAS radar module, which shows an indication of a high-tech features suite. In this case, a base level one joined with other features like forward collision warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more.
Expected alternative features include a 360-degree camera, blind view monitor, tyre pressure monitoring system, 6 airbags and a dual dash cam setup.
ICE vs EV: What will be different in Caren's line-up?
While the Carens EV interior will probably be the same as the ICE version of the Clavis, the Carens EV has some subtle EV specific changes, including LED DRLs, new alloy wheels, along with a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and V2V (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) charge function whether it's for just charging a device or vehicle-to-vehicle charging.
The official launch isn't far off, and if the expectations and words are to be trusted, the Kia Carens EV is becoming a new exciting option for families entering the market to view an EV option.
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