The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is poised for massive growth over the next decade. Improving charging infrastructure, government subsidies, lower running costs compared to petrol/diesel vehicles, and growing consumer awareness are driving the EV revolution in the country.
SUVs are one of the most popular passenger vehicle categories in India due to their space, comfort, ability to handle rough roads, and aspirational appeal for many buyers. The emergence of electric SUV models in the last couple of years presents a unique opportunity for Indian families looking to switch to sustainable mobility.
Benefits of Electric SUVs
Source: Collidu
EVs Offer Significant Fuel Savings
One of the biggest advantages of electric SUVs is dramatically lower fuel expenses compared to conventional petrol or diesel models. On average, fueling an EV costs only around one-fourth to one-fifth as much per kilometer compared to an equivalently sized ICE vehicle. Over 5-7 years of typical ownership, these fuel savings add up even when accounting for electricity costs for charging.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Electric powertrains have far fewer moving parts compared to complex internal combustion engines. There is no oil, spark plugs, air filters, etc. to replace periodically. Regen braking reduces wear and tear on friction brakes as well. All said and done, customers can expect to spend 70-80% less on periodic servicing and maintenance with an electric SUV over its lifetime.
Eco-Friendly Transportation
EVs have no tailpipe emissions, unlike petrol/diesel cars which pollute the air with greenhouse gases, particulate matter, etc.. Even when considering upstream emissions in electricity generation, an EV still has a significantly lower lifetime carbon footprint. Going electric with personal transportation is one of the greener choices we can make today for cleaner air.
Superior Driving Comfort
The near-silent operation of electric drivetrains makes them extremely refined. Cabin noise is minimal without the usual engine and exhaust sound we are conditioned to from normal SUVs. The smooth yet potent power delivery also makes EVs comfortable and effortless to drive over long distances. Passengers can have hushed conversations or enjoy music without sound intrusion.
Exciting Performance on Tap
While petrol/diesel SUVs require revving to access torque, EVs deliver 100% torque output instantly. The sheer punch of the line makes electric SUVs hugely thrilling to drive. Even affordable models clock 0-100 kmph in under 10 seconds thanks to electric motor torque. The low center of gravity from underfloor battery placement also keeps these tall vehicles sure-footed around corners.
Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric SUV
Range Per Charge
This is the most important consideration for any EV buyer. The range of affordable electric SUVs today is between 200-400 km on a single full charge which suffices for daily city commuting and occasional outstation trips. We can expect the ranges to improve further in the coming years.
Charging Infrastructure
A growing network of public EV charging stations is coming up across India thanks to initiatives like FAME. Charging an EV is like recharging your phone. Home charging facilities are also available today for buyers with a parking space. The public network will expand rapidly to alleviate any range of anxiety.
Space and Comfort
Electric SUVs must offer decent space, comfortable seating, and good ride quality to serve family needs comfortably. We’ve only considered 5/7 seater electric SUVs for families. Premium interiors and connectivity features are also vital.
Safety
A sturdy build, crumple zones, airbags, ABS, parking sensors, etc. are baseline requirements for protective safety. Some affordable electric SUV models also feature auto emergency braking (AEB) which applies brakes automatically to prevent collisions.
Top 10 Affordable Electric SUVs in India (Under 25 Lakhs)
Here are the top models that strike the best balance on the above parameters for families at prices less than Rs 25 lakh.
1. MG ZS EV – Price Rs. 21 Lakhs*
Source: Carwale
The popular MG ZS EV has an ARAI-certified range of 419km and gets features like auto emergency braking, panoramic sunroof, PM 2.5 filter, heated ORVMs, and more. The 44.5 kWh battery can be charged from 0-80 in 50 minutes using a DC fast charger. It has roomy interiors and comes in two variants.
2. Tata Nexon EV Max – Price Rs. 17.74 Lakhs*
Source: Carwale
The Nexon EV Max with its larger 40.5kWh battery offers an ARAI range of 437 km. It supports fast charging up to 125 kW and can replenish 210km range in 60 mins. Available in 2 trims, it offers features like a 7” touchscreen, auto-dimming IRVM, climate control, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and more.
3. BYD e6 – Price Rs. 23.5 Lakhs*
Source: Carwale
The BYD e6 has a 71kWh battery pack offering a 416km range as per ARAI. With a spacious 7-seater cabin and impressive features list including a 10.1” rotating infotainment touchscreen, this new launch seems quite appealing for families seeking a premium electric SUV experience.
4. Hyundai Kona Electric – Price Rs. 23.84 Lakhs*
Source: Carwale
The Hyundai Kona Electric delivers ARAI certified range of 452 km from its 39.2 kWh battery. DC fast charging (0-80%) takes only 57 minutes. Kona’s premium and tech-loaded cabin with an 8” touchscreen and sunroof makes it a compelling option. Earlier issues of low production seem to have been addressed now indicating better availability.
5. MG ZS EV Facelift – Price Rs 25 Lakhs* (Expected)
Source: HT Auto
The facelifted 2023 ZS EV gets cosmetic changes but retains the capable foundations of a 44.5kWh battery with a 419 km range according to ARAI. Updated MG PILOT ADAS tech, digital cockpit, panoramic sky roof, and other features cater well to families looking at a value-for-money EV SUV.
6. BYD Atto 3 – Price Rs 25 Lakhs* (Expected)
Source: Carwale
This new electric SUV model launched recently in China promises a range of 521 km (ARAI estimate). When launched in India, expected by mid-2023, it could shake up the segment. Reportedly based on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0; fast charging 0-80 percent in 50 minutes, space for 5 or 7 passengers, the latest BYD Blade battery tech, and ADAS safety – make this one of the most anticipated affordable EV SUVs.
7. Citroen eC3 – Price Rs 25 Lakhs* (Expected)
Source: Carwale
Citroen’s maiden EV for India, the eC3 mini SUV is planned for launch by the end of 2023. Details about battery specs and range are awaited but media reports indicate a sub Rs 25 lakh pricing. With quirky styling feature-loaded interiors, and premium ride quality – this one spells an exciting new option for electric family mobility.
8. Mahindra XUV400 EV – Price Rs 15-20 Lakhs* (Expected pricing)
Source: Cardekho
The XUV400 EV appears promising as Mahindra’s first electric SUV offering for retail buyers. Details about battery size and range are still under wraps but some amount of localization and cost efficiencies give hope that M&M can price it attractively. Coming by mid-2023, the XUV 400 EVs will have big boots to fill with all the hype surrounding it!
9. Tata Sierra EV – Price 25 Lakhs* (Expected)
Source: Carwale
While only a concept so far officially showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo, Tata is expected to launch the production version of the Sierra EV by 2025. This model is possibly based on Tata’s new ‘AGT’ architecture with a minimum 500km range on a single charge. The legendary Sierra nameplate has big appeal so expectations run high for this lifestyle electric SUV.
10. BYD Tang – Price 30 Lakhs* (Expected)
Source: EV Database
BYD’s premium 7-seater electric SUV, the Tang is also likely headed for India by the end of 2023 as a CBU import with local assembly slated for later. Already on sale in Europe, the tech-laden Tang promises a range of 400km (ARAI estimate), an all-wheel-drive option, and loads of performance.
Comparative Analysis
Here is a comparison table with key specs and parameters to help find the best value across the top affordable electric SUVs for Indian families within a Rs 25 lakh budget:
| Model | Price | Range (ARAI Est.) | Battery Capacity | Charging Time (0-80%) | Seating Capacity | Fast Charging Std | Safety (Airbags) |
| MG ZS EV | Rs 21 Lakhs* | 419 km | 44.5 kWh | 50 mins | 5 seater | CCS2 | 6 airbags |
| Tata Nexon EV Max | Rs 17.74 Lakhs* | 437 km | 40.5 kWh | 60 mins | 5 seater | CCS2 | 6 airbags |
| BYD e6 | Rs 23.5 Lakhs* | 416 km | 71 kWh | 90 mins | 7 seater | GB/T | 6 airbags |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | Rs 23.84 Lakhs* | 452 km | 39.2 kWh | 57 mins | 5 seater | CCS2 + CHAdeMO | 6 airbags |
| MG ZS EV Facelift | Rs 25 Lakhs* | 419 km | 44.5 kWh | 50 mins | 5 seater | CCS2 | 6 airbags |
| BYD Atto 3 | Rs 25 Lakhs* | 521 km | Blade battery | 50 mins | 5/7 seater | CCS2 | 6 airbags |
| Citroen eC3 | Rs 25 Lakhs* | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed | 5 seater (Expected) | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed |
| Mahindra XUV400 EV | Rs 15-20 Lakhs* | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed | 5/7 seater (Expected) | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed |
| Tata Sierra EV | Rs 25 Lakhs* | 500 km | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed | 5 seater (Expected) | Yet to be revealed | Yet to be revealed |
| BYD Tang | Rs 30 Lakhs* | 400 km | Blade battery | 90 mins | 7 seater | CCS2 | 6 airbags |
Conclusion
For Indian families ready to switch to electric, there will likely never be a better time than 2023-24 with a plethora of new EV models catering exactly to their needs while benefiting the planet. As seen above, there are appealing options across price points starting around Rs 15 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
Ideally, the EV SUV one chooses should have sufficient range for daily needs, fast charging capability, premium and spacious interiors, the latest connectivity, and infotainment features, and of course – reliability. As range anxiety fades and mass adoption tips over in coming years, the total cost of ownership with an electric SUV emerges extremely favorable compared to ICE engine rivals. Hope you found this roundup and analysis useful! Do share your thoughts or queries on affordable electric SUVs for families in the comments section.
