Nowadays, automakers in the Indian auto market are focusing on the compact SUV segment. Why? Because most car buyers prefer sub-4-meter vehicles, whether it’s Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, or Kia Sonet.
However, since the government is encouraging the adoption of sustainable mobility, automakers are launching ICE vehicles with EV variants.
The impressive part is that India has responded to EVs positively. In 2023, EV sales across various segments exceeded 1.5 million units. Moreover, the passenger vehicles (PVs) segment reached the highest-ever annual sales of more than 81,000 units, with compact e-SUVs surged. It means more people are leaning towards electric cars each year.
You have several options if you’re looking for an EV with high-ground clearance at a reasonable price.
TATA NEXON EV (Rs. 14.74 – 19.99 Lakh)
The Nexon EV needs no introduction. Although Tata launched the Nexon EV in 2020, it became the first mass-market electric vehicle.
The Nexon EV offers two powertrain options – a 30kWh and a 40.5kWh battery.
The 30-kWh battery pack generates an impressive output of 126.9 bhp, 215Nm of torque, and a range of 325km. Meanwhile, the 40.5-kWh delivers even better performance with 141bhp, 215Nm of torque, and 465 km range. Moreover, Nexon EV can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds and reach 150km/h top speed.
Using a 7.2 kW AC charger, users can recharge the 30-kWh battery in 4.3 hours, while the larger 40.5 kWh unit requires 6 hours. However, the charging times add up to 10.5 and 15 hours, respectively, with a standard charger. A DC fast charger can replenish the battery to 80% capacity in just 56 minutes, regardless of the battery variant.
Dimensions: 3994 mm (length), 1811mm (width), 1616mm (height), and 2498mm (wheelbase). Ground Clearance: 205mm (30kWh)/190mm (40.5kWh).
Features on the Tata Nexon EV include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 360-degree camera system
- Sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Cruise control
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) charging technology
MG ZS EV (18.98 – 25.19 Lakh)
This mid-sized electric car is among the first premium electric SUVs in India. With generous interior space and comfortable design, it is an ideal choice for families seeking a versatile EV.
Equipped with a 173bhp electric motor and a 50.3kWh battery pack, the ZS EV has an estimated range of 461km on a single charge.
A 7.4kW charger allows the battery to replenish from 0 to 100% in around 8.5 to 9 hours. Additionally, a 50kW fast charger accelerates the process significantly, bringing the battery from 0 to 80% in one hour.
Dimensions: 4323mm (length), 1809mm (width), 1649mm (height) and 2585mm (wheelbase). Ground Clearance: 177mm
It comes with a feature-loaded cabin which includes:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Cruise control
- 360-degree camera
- Blind spot warning, lane change assist, and rear parking assist.
Mahindra XUV400 (15.49 – 19.39 Lakh)
The XUV400 boasts an attractive design and spacious interior, ensuring ample room for all passengers. Thanks to its suspension, the car offers smooth and comfortable ride quality.
The XUV400 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds since it delivers 148 bhp and 310 Nm of torque. The electric motor either features a 34.5 kWh (375 km range) or a 39.5 kWh (456 km range) battery pack.
The EL PRO variant offers a 3.3 kW charger or a 7.2 kW charger, while the EC PRO model comes standard with a 3.3 kW charger.
Dimensions: 4200mm (length), 1821mm (width), 1634mm (height) and 2600mm (wheelbase). Ground Clearance: 200mm
The XUV400 comes equipped with:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Connected car technology
- Dual-zone climate control
- Single-pane electric sunroof
- Rear parking sensors
- Cruise control
Hyundai Kona Electric (23.84 – 24.03 Lakh)
Are you searching for a stylish and powerful electric SUV? The Kona Electric is an ideal option for you then. The EV is suitable for both urban commuting and off-road adventures. Moreover, the all-new Hyundai KONA has clinched the Best Compact SUV award at Fleet News Awards 2024.
Equipped with a 39.2kWh battery in its first-generation iteration, the Hyundai Kona delivers a claimed range of 452km. Powered by a single electric motor generating 134bhp and 395Nm torque, it reaches 0 to 100km/h in 9.7 seconds, with a top speed reaching 154kmph.
With a 50kW fast charger, you can replenish the Kona EV from 0 to 80% in less than 60 minutes. However, it will take around six hours with a 7.2kWh charger for a full charge.
Dimensions: 4,180mm (length), 1,800mm (width), 1,570mm (height) and 2600mm (wheelbase). Ground Clearance: 170mm
The first-gen Kona Electric features:
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Front ventilated and heated seats
- 10-way powered driver seat
- Eight-speaker KRELL audio system,
- Heads-up display
- Electric sunroof
- Cruise control
- Blind spot detection and autonomous emergency braking
Tata Punch EV (Rs. 10.98 – 15.48 Lakh)
Tata Motors unveiled the Punch EV as the official vehicle for the Indian Premier League (IPL) of 2024.
The car offers two powertrain options: a 25-kWh battery pack, offering 315km range and delivering 80 bhp and 114Nm of torque. Moreover, a 35-kWh battery pack, providing 421km range and producing 120 bhp and 190 Nm torque.
Charging from 10 to 80% takes 56 minutes using a 50 kW DC fast charger.
Dimensions: 3827mm (length), 1742mm (width), 1615mm (height) and 2445mm (wheelbase). Ground Clearance: 190mm
The Punch EV comes equipped with:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Ventilated front seats
- Harman sound system
- Blind view monitor
- 360-degree camera with parking sensors.
The Future of Compact SUVs in India
The Indian EV sector is experiencing rapid expansion, with carmakers noticing the rise in the compact EV SUV segment. Additionally, advancements in battery technology may lead to an increase in the number of compact SUVs. More choices are on the horizon in this category, with Tata Cruvv EV, Maruti Suzuki eVX, and Mahindra BE.05 making their debut soon.
