KATHMANDU: The Indian automobile market is bracing for three entry-level electric vehicle models manufactured locally.
Automobile brands are competing to bring new models as EV sales grow in India. Tata and MG have already found success with their EVs in India. Now, Indian automaker Mahindra and two South Korean companies, Hyundai and Kia, are preparing to launch new models in the popular sub-four-meter segment.
These compact EVs are expected to further boost EV penetration in India. Since all these brands are already present in Nepal, their new EV models will also make their way into the domestic market sooner or later.
1. Mahindra XUV 3XO EV
Mahindra is preparing to launch the XUV 3XO EV, the brand’s entry-level electric SUV, in the Indian market. The model is currently undergoing road testing in India.
Positioned below the XUV400, the XUV 3XO EV will be the electric version of Mahindra’s petrol-powered 3XO. Expected features in the 3XO EV include a panoramic sunroof, front parking sensors, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Level-2 ADAS and a Harman Kardon sound system, according to Indian media reports.
The SUV is expected to come with a 35 kWh battery pack.
2. Kia Syros EV
Kia Motors is also planning to launch the electric version of its Syros SUV in early 2026. The model was recently spotted at a public charging station in South Korea.
Built on the same K1 platform as Hyundai’s Inster EV, the Syros EV is expected to feature Level-2 ADAS, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof and a 12.3-inch dual touchscreen display, among other premium offerings.
The SUV is expected to come with two battery packs of 42 kWh and 49 kWh, delivering a WLTP range of 300 km and 355 km, respectively. The Syros EV will have a single-motor front-wheel-drive setup.
3. Hyundai Inster EV
Hyundai is also preparing to introduce a new EV in India. Recently, Hyundai CEO José Muñoz announced plans to produce an India-specific EV.
The upcoming Inster EV is expected to compete directly with Tata’s Punch EV. While earlier reports suggested that Hyundai would launch the global Inster EV in India, the company has now said that it will produce the vehicle using parts made locally.
Although the company has not made public the specifications yet, the model is likely to come with 42 kWh or 49 kWh battery options, offering a real-world range of about 300 km.
