JSW Motors is all set to bring in some new technology into the mainstream Indian automotive space. Yes, we are talking about the plug-in hybrid technology. And that’s not all; the new automaker will also target India’s rapidly growing EV market. Following that, industry reports suggest that JSW Motors is more likely to introduce the Chery iCar V23-based SUV as its second launch. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
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JSW Chery iCar V23 Design
There is no doubt that Indians love SUVs. The Toyota Fortuner, for example, even with its hefty price tag and limited features, continues to sell like hot cakes. Keeping up with the trend, JSW could continue with the mini-Defender-like silhouette of the Chery iCar V23 for their second SUV. The boxy design will be highlighted by the flat bonnet, squared-off wheel arches, a tiny external storage box and body cladding. Not to get too boxy in design, the iCar V23 also features circular headlamps. With an overall length of about 4.2 metres and a width of 1.9 metres, the iCar V23-based SUV is expected to have a promising road presence.
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Interior & Features
Step inside the cabin, and a 15.4-inch infotainment screen greets you. To give the iCar V23 a rugged yet retro finish, the automaker also offers retro dials and switchgear for the necessary controls, along with a minimalist steering wheel. However, one odd thing about the international-spec iCar V23 is that it doesn’t offer an instrument cluster. You can access all the information you need directly from the central screen. The feature list includes a wireless charger, an ADAS suite, a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and much more. Alongside this feature, you can also expect a 5-star safety rating.
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Powertrain
As an EV, the Chery iCar V23-based JSW Motors SUV could get two battery pack options – a 59.93 kWh (134 bhp & 180 Nm) unit and a larger 81.76 kWh (211 bhp & 292 Nm) unit. The larger battery would be suited to the dual-motor setup, enabling AWD. Both battery packs could offer 300-550 km of claimed range for their respective variants. With DC fast-charging support of about 104 kWh, a 30%-80% charge time of under 45 minutes is expected.
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Rivals
With this SUV, JSW Motors will establish itself in the midsize electric SUV segment. The major contenders taking on the iCar V23 will be the Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, Maruti e Vitara, MG ZS EV, VinFast VF6 and the latest Tata Sierra EV. It would be interesting to see how it performs against the already well-established rivals. Which one is your favourite?
Expected Launch & Pricing
JSW Motors plans to launch its first model in India by this upcoming festive season. They have been spotted testing their debut model for quite some time now. That said, we could expect JSW Motors’ second SUV, based on the Chery iCar V23, to launch by the end of 2026. To compete with well-established rivals, JSW Motors could price its midsize SUV aggressively, between Rs. 17 lakh and Rs. 27 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).
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