The electric vehicle (EV) market is currently undergoing a remarkable transformation. Several established automakers have unveiled new electric cars in the market, pushing forward the boundaries of innovation, while new entrants from across the globe are also disrupting the EV market, giving tough competition to already-established brands, including Tesla.
Consumers now have even more exciting and diverse eco-friendly cars to explore. This year marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of sustainable transportation as manufacturers worldwide compete to improve technology, reduce environmental impact, and combat pollution. In this blog, we are going to explore the versatile range of new electric cars in 2024, focusing on their battery technology, range, charging capabilities, and overall impact on urban mobility.
1. Top Electric Car Launches of 2024
2024 is a landmark year for the EV market, featuring a variety of new models that bring enhanced performance, affordability, and sustainability. Notable entrants this year include:
Tata Curvv EV
The recently launched Tata Curvv EV, India’s first-ever mass-market coupe, is available at a starting price of INR 17.49 lakh (ex-showroom) in the Indian market. Tata Motors has launched the Curvv EV with the coupe-like aesthetics and practicality of an SUV, which set it apart from other Tata models we have seen in the past few years.
Packed with two battery sets: 55 kWh and 45 kWh, the Tata Curvv electric SUV has managed to get positive responses from customers thanks to its extending range and flexibility. On the safety front, the Curvv electric coupe is being offered with Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, a panoramic sunroof, ESP with a driver doze-off alert, and all-wheel disc brakes.
MG Windsor EV
JSW MG Motor India launched its first intelligent CUV (crossover utility vehicle), the Windsor EV, in the Indian market on September 11, 2024. One can purchase the Windsor EV at a starting ex-showroom price of INR 13.50 lakh. In MG’s electric car lineup, the Windsor CUV is positioned between the MG ZS EV and the MG Comet EV.
MG Windsor EV Variants:
- Excite
- Exclusive
- Essence
The MG Windsor crossover utility vehicle combines the spaciousness of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. It draws power from a 38kWh battery set followed by an electric motor that can churn out power of 134 bhp and peak torque of 200 Nm. The electric car’s battery set offers a claimed range of 331 km. It can be charged from 0 to 80 kW in just 55 minutes.
Tata Nexon EV
India’s leading car manufacturer, Tata Motors, introduced the Nexon electric vehicle with a larger 45 kWh battery set. The Nexon EV can be purchased at an ex-showroom price of INR 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The most notable highlight is the V2Vn and V2L charging technology equipped in the Nexon EV, through which buyers can charge other appliances and electric vehicles through the car’s battery.
The brand has also introduced this versatile electric car in the Red Dark Edition, which is INR 20,000 more expensive than the standard model. However, buyers will only get the Red Dark Edition in the Empowered+ version. This powerful electric car is packed with a 45kWh battery set, which offers 489 kilometers of claimed range on a single charge.
BMW XM Label
The Indian market got to witness BMW’s most powerful production car, the XM Label, last month. Launched at an initial ex-showroom price of INR 3.15 crore, the BMW XM Label arrives in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU). BMW India claims the XM Label is the most powerful and advanced electric car in the market.
What sets the BMW XM Label apart from other models is BMW’s Frozen Carbon Black Metallic color scheme and Leather Merino upholstery. It draws power from a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that is tuned to generate peak power of 748 bhp and torque of 1,000 Nm.
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra
The leading tech giant Xiaomi has recently rolled out the SU7 Ultra hypercar with three electric motors. The powerful SU7 electric sedan is all set to become the new fastest electric car in the world. Xiaomi will again showcase the SU7 Ultra variant at the Nurburgring track in the coming months, meaning automotive enthusiasts now have a chance to get a glimpse of this high-performance EV.
In global markets, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is all set to give tough competition to the Porsche Taycan and the Tesla Model S Plaid. It will come with cutting-edge technology, quick acceleration, and a potential Nurburgring lap record.
Being offered with cutting-edge technology, a potential Nurburgring lap record under its name, and quick acceleration, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra will set the tech company as the leading automobile manufacturer in the coming years.
2. The Changing Landscape of Electric Mobility
The market trends for electric vehicles in 2024 reflect a growing commitment to eco-friendly transportation. As regulations across the world become stricter and more environmentally conscious, consumers demand better options. New emerging auto startups as well as mainstream auto companies are gearing up long-awaited electric car models with efficiency, performance, and design.
New Entrants for 2024: A Glimpse of the Future
Several hopeful new entrants are making waves in the electric vehicle market:
- PMV Electric - An electric vehicle startup company from Mumbai that is positioning itself in the urban mobility space with its micro-electric car, the EaS-E. It is an urban multi-purpose vehicle that was developed in an effort to make personal commuting affordable by utilizing emissions-free electric mobility.
- Rivian - Besides trucks and large SUVs, Rivian is preparing to introduce a popular and all-purpose crossover that families can use on a daily basis. The brand’s passion for customer-centric functions and constant use of new technology tools have attracted many potential customers.
- Pravaig Dynamics - This is a new startup company based in Bengaluru that is attracting a lot of consumers with the Defy SUV, which is the company’s first electric luxury car. Bearing in mind the target audience satisfying high demands on a car, its cost, power, and advanced technology, Pravaig intends to challenge widely known international brands.
- BYD India - The Chinese electric vehicle major has started bringing upgraded variants along with the already launched Atto 3. The newest models they brought onto the market focused on power-saving technology and uniqueness.
Technology Advancements Driving the Future
While India is moving towards the future of electric mobility, car makers are also trying to boost EV usage across the country by launching new models. The evolution of the new high-tech electric cars that the incumbent and entrant automakers have been unveiling in India is highly dynamic. This approach has completely transformed the Indian electric market.
The next generation of electric vehicles is represented by the innovations listed below, which are more appealing to a wider range of consumers.
Battery, Range, and Charging: Breaking New Ground
The most crucial aspect of electric vehicles, battery technology, has seen remarkable improvements, which are setting new standards for range and charging speeds. Innovations include:
- Solid-state batteries offering higher energy density
- Advanced thermal management for better performance
- Improved chemistry for faster charging and longer lifespan
Many 2024 models now offer long-range capabilities exceeding 400 miles on a single charge, addressing one of the primary concerns of potential EV adopters.
3. The Future Is Electric
As we look forward to 2024, the Indian EV market appears to be increasingly futuristic and promising for automobile enthusiasts. Automakers across the globe are continuously working on enhancing the technology, features, and infrastructure, creating a perfect storm for widespread EV adoption.
Upcoming Electric Car Launches in India
The EV market appears to be increasingly futuristic and promising for automobile enthusiasts, with various highly anticipated launches set to hit the market. In the coming months, customers will get to witness a range of eco-friendly electric car options to select from. Here is the list of a few upcoming electric cars in India:
1. Nissan Ariya EV
In a bid to expand its product lineup in India, the famous car manufacturer Nissan is planning to roll out the premium Ariya electric SUV in the domestic market in the coming months. According to reports, this new futuristic electric car will reach the Indian shores as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). Based on the Nissan Alliance’s CMF-EV platform, the upcoming Nissan Ariya EV will be offered in three variants and two battery packs: 63 kWh and 87 kWh.
2. Hyundai Creta EV
Hyundai Motor India has announced recently that it is planning to launch the electric version of its highest-selling car in India, the Hyundai Creta EV, at the Bharat Mobility Expo in January 2025. The electric SUV is expected to be offered with two battery sets that could offer a range of 560 km in one charge. On the feature front, the upcoming Creta EV is likely to be packed with panoramic sunroof, level 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, and whatnot.
3. BYD eMax 7
The BYD eMax 7 electric MPV is set to hit the Indian market on October 8, 2024. BYD India has announced that the upcoming all-electric model is an updated avatar of the outgoing BYD E6, a three-row SUV specially designed for larger families. The BYD eMax 7 is going to be an eco-friendly and versatile option for customers. The upcoming eMAX 7 will be powered by a marginally larger 71.8 kWh unit. It is expected to come equipped with level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features.
4. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz will roll out the sixth-generation E-Class in a long-wheelbase version for luxury car enthusiasts. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is scheduled to arrive in India on October 9, 2024. It is expected to be launched at a starting price of INR 80 lakh. It will draw power from both a 2.0-litre, inline-four-cylinder diesel and a 2.0-litre, inline 4-cylinder petrol engine options.
With this new practical electric car, the brand promises to deliver its signature blend of cutting-edge technology, luxury, and performance. The E-Class is specifically designed to provide a better riding experience for Indian consumers.
Challenges and Opportunities
While significant progress has been made, the Indian EV market is likely to face some challenges:
- Further reducing production costs
- Expanding charging infrastructure in rural areas
- Addressing raw material sustainability for battery production
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and growth in the industry. Both traditional and new entrants in the auto industry are expected to come with new measures to tackle these challenges. In fact, premium brands are now introducing their electric car range at competitive prices and customer-centric features, making it easier for consumers to invest in electric mobility. Moreover, as the Indian government continues to introduce incentives and subsidies, electric car ownership is becoming more financially viable.
Conclusion: The Future of Driving is Electric
2024 is more promising and exciting for the electric vehicle market than it has ever been before. The opportunity is therefore presented to the consumers, where with new entrants, new ideas and concepts are brought in with a much fresh offer while existing players also continuously innovate. As technology advances and infrastructure expands, the dream of widespread, sustainable electric mobility is becoming a reality.
It doesn’t matter which side of the fence you stand on as a consumer; the year 2024 has been marked as the year of electric vehicles. When it comes to sustainability, new technologies, and innovative ideas are modifying the automobile sector for better transportation and efficiency.
For those considering the switch to electric, there has never been a better time to explore the possibilities and join the revolution toward cleaner, smarter mobility.
