The most affordable EV from the brand could arrive following the debut of eZS electric SUV slated to launch in late 2019 with 430 km range
MG Motor India is reportedly working on an electrified vehicle that will cost below Rs. 10 lakh and cater to the masses. The British manufacturer is readying to enter India with the Hector premium SUV scheduled for launch in June and its second product for India has also confirmed to be an electric SUV named eZS.
The SAIC-owned brand is looking to make a big impact in the premium space with its range of SUVs and yesterday showcased the plethora of in-car connectivity options the Hector will possess with a large 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system in portrait orientation at the heart of the action.
The report regarding an affordable EV comes as a bit of a surprise though. MG’s Managing Director for India, Rajeev Chhaba, has said that an electric car priced below Rs. 10 lakh will work for India and the brand has actually commenced the operations to make it possible for the domestic customers.
It will follow the eZS electric SUV slated to enter the market towards the end of this year and it has a driving range of more than 430 km on a single charge on the NEDC cycle with fast charger helping to replenish up to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes. The eZS will be brought into the country via CBU (Completely Built Up) route before reaching local assembly in the near future.
It is no secret that heavily localising battery and associated components will do a whole lot of good in positioning the EV to sit below Rs. 10 lakh. The Hector will also get a 48 V mild hybrid powertrain coupled with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine capable of 143 horses.
It will be the most affordable 48 V mild-hybrid system equipped car in India when it goes on sale and has distinct advantages like being 12 per cent more frugal than the conventional petrol engine. It will feature regenerative braking and automatic engine start/stop.
When asked about the launch timeline of the second EV, Chhaba said that a final decision would be taken only after getting clarity over the intriguing policies in the particular segment. With SAIC owning 49 per cent of the world’s leading battery producing plant in China, sourcing of the battery bits could relatively come easier for MG compared to other brands.