VinFast's Electric MPV
VinFast has entered the Indian market with its new VF MPV 7, a substantial seven-seater electric vehicle. Priced from Rs 24.49 lakh (ex-showroom), this
model aims to capture a new segment of buyers. It boasts a 60.13 kWh battery, capable of delivering an ARAI-certified range of 517 km. Powering the vehicle is a front-mounted electric motor generating 204 hp and 280 Nm of torque, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in under 9 seconds. Drivers can select from Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, with adjustable brake regeneration settings. For rapid recharging, the VF MPV 7 supports DC fast charging up to 80 kW, enabling a charge from 10% to 70% in just 30 minutes.
Kia's Electric Offering
The Kia Carens Clavis EV, starting at Rs 17.99 lakh (ex-showroom), presents buyers with a choice of two battery configurations. The smaller 42 kWh unit offers an ARAI-rated range of 404 km, while the larger 51.4 kWh battery extends this to a claimed 490 km. Both configurations utilize a front-mounted electric motor delivering 255 Nm of torque, with the smaller battery version producing 135 hp and the larger one a more potent 171 hp. The 51.4 kWh variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 8.4 seconds. Advanced features include four levels of regenerative braking, controllable via paddle shifters, and a steering-column-mounted drive selector. For AC charging, Kia provides 7.4 kW and 11 kW options. Using the 11 kW charger, the 42 kWh battery can be fully charged from 10% in 4 hours, and the 51.4 kWh battery in approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes.
Mahindra's XEV 9S
Mahindra's XEV 9S enters the fray with a starting price of Rs 19.95 lakh (ex-showroom) and offers an impressive array of three battery pack options, all compatible with high-speed DC charging ranging from 140 kW to 180 kW. The entry-level Pack One Above variant allows for a choice between a 59 kWh (231 hp) or a 79 kWh (286 hp) battery, both driving the rear wheels. The XEV 9S equipped with the 79 kWh battery can achieve an extraordinary range of up to 679 km, whereas the base 59 kWh version offers a range of up to 521 km. The mid-tier Pack Two Above trim features a 70 kWh battery powering a 245 hp motor, delivering a commendable range of up to 600 km. Top-tier variants, Pack Three and Pack Three Above, exclusively use the 79 kWh battery. Performance is a strong suit, with the more powerful models accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds, while the 59 kWh model achieves this in 7.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 202 km/h.
