The Indian automobile industry has witnessed successful launch of new electric vehicles including Tata Nexon, Hyundai Kona and MG ZS EV. Major car manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors and Renault are also planning to foray into the electric vehicle space in coming years. In fact, the American electric vehicle giant – Tesla has also confirmed its India entry with the Model 3 electric sedan in the early 2021.
According to a latest media report, however, most of the new electric vehicle projects have been delayed or cancelled. Around a dozen of upcoming mass electric cars (priced below Rs 10 lakh), which were planned until 2023, are likely to witness a delay of around 3 to 6 months. The reason behind the delay is said to be the disruption in research and development, component supply constraints and changes to capital expenditure plans due to the pandemic.
The report further states that Maruti Suzuki has cancelled its plan to launch the WagonR EV due to “techno-commercial viability issues”. The electric hatchback is likely to feature several imported components that will increase its manufacturing cost. With this decision, Toyota’s EV plan which was based on Maruti Suzuki WagonR EV has also been shelved.
The upcoming Tata Altroz EV and HBX electric mini SUV might see a delay. The Altroz electric, which was previewed at the last year’s Auto Expo, was reported to hit roads in the second half of 2021. Both models are likely to feature the brand’s Ziprtron electric powertrain that does duty in the Nexon EV. However, the battery capacity and power outputs might be different for the electric hatchback and mini SUV.
The upcoming electric cars that might also witness a launch delay will include Hyundai’s new compact sedan and an SUV (planned under its Smart Car project), Renault Kwid EV, Mahindra XUV300 EV and Atom quadricycle.
