It is no secret that EVs are the future, as most of the automakers are already working on multiple passenger electric vehicles for the Indian market. The EV market is currently dominated by Tata Motors with over 80% market share; however, things will change as Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai-Kia and others have already announced their respective EV plans.
Not just regular passenger cars, off-roaders for enthusiasts will also turn into EVs. These off-roaders will receive AWD layout with dual-electric motor setup. In this article, we talk about 3 upcoming off-roaders with electric powertrain in the Indian market.
Tata Sierra
Tata Motors had showcased the Sierra EV concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. The company has confirmed that the Sierra EV will be introduced in our market by 2025. This lifestyle SUV is also expected to receive a turbo petrol engine; however, Tata’s main focus is on EVs. In fact, Tata aims to manufacturer 10,000 EVs per month in the country in 2024. It will measure around 4.3-4.4 meters in length and will be offered in 4 and 5-seat layout with former having lounge seats. The lounge version will have two captain seats which can be reclined and pulled back/front.
The Tata Sierra EV will be designed and developed on the GEN 2 platform or SIGMA architecture, which is hybrid architecture. This is basically the heavily modified version of the ALFA modular platform, which underpins the Altroz & the Punch. It is likely to be fitted with a 60kWh or 80kWh battery pack with a front-axle mounted electric motor as standard. The SUV will also receive an AWD setup with two electric motors mounted on front and rear axles. It is expected to offer a range of around 500km on a single charge.
Mahindra Thar
Mahindra has revealed the Thar.e concept at an event in South Africa. The company has confirmed that the Thar, Bolero, XUV700 and the Scorpio-N will have electric iterations in the future. The Thar.e concept is based on the specialized INGLO-P1 platform. The SUV will ride on a large wheelbase, spanning from 2776mm to 2976mm. The SUV will have reduced overhangs and a 300mm large ground clearance. Mahindra claims that the Thar electric will offer segment-best approach angle, departure anngle, ramp-over angle, and water wading ability.
It is a 5-door concept, which will have rear powertrain and battery configuration. The company has opted for BYD as the source for Blade and Primatic cells. The SUV will also offer a 4WD system, with dual motors adorning each axle.
Suzuki Jimny EV
Suzuki has revealed its battery electric vehicles for our market. The brand’s first EV is scheduled to be introduced in the second half of 2024. The company is also working on the EV versions of the Fronx and the WagonR hatchback. Adding to it, a Suzuki Jimny styled electric vehicle is also under development. It is expected that the Jimny EV will first go on sale in Europe by 2026. The India-spec model will be a 5-door version. The EV will come with a dual-motor setup with a larger battery pack.
