KATHMANDU: Kia is preparing to introduce the Carens Clavis EV in Nepal. It will be the first electric SUV/MPV from Kia to be produced in India for the Indian market.
Continental Trading Enterprises, the authorized distributor of Kia in Nepal, is preparing to bring the Carens Clavis EV to the Nepali market.
The company has already started preparations for its Nepal launch. It has listed the maximum retail price of the model at Rs 5.69 million. However, the company has not officially announced the launch date yet.
The Carens Clavis EV is available in India with two battery options. It gets a 42 kWh battery with a claimed range of 404 km and a 51.4 kWh battery with a claimed range of 490 km.
It is offered with two motor outputs. The 42 kWh version produces 135 PS, while the larger battery version produces 171 PS. Both versions use a front-mounted electric motor with 255 Nm of torque.
The Carens Clavis EV supports DC fast charging. Kia also offers the model in six- and seven-seat configurations in India.
In terms of design, the EV retains the basic shape of the petrol-powered Carens Clavis. However, it gets EV-specific styling elements. These include aerodynamic alloy wheels, connected LED daytime running lights and connected LED tail lamps.
The cabin gets twin 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. Other features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, Bose premium audio and V2L technology.
Safety features include six airbags, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors and Level 2 ADAS. The EV also gets other electronic safety and driver-assistance features.
In Nepal, the Kia Carens Clavis EV is expected to compete with models such as the BYD eMax 7 and other electric MPVs in the segment.
Continental Trading has not officially announced the launch date. However, the model is expected to go on sale before the upcoming festive season.
