Electric vehicles showcased at Indian car show

Automakers intend bringing a range of electric vehicles to Auto Expo 2018 in New Delhi from February 9-14.

Nearly 24 EVs, including electric bikes, buses, small trucks, SUVs and sports cars, are expected.

Kia has a wide range of EVs and plug-in hybrids included in the 16 global models it will use to help outline its plans for the Indian market, one of the world’s fastest growing.

In that regard it will also reveal an SP Concept SUV on February 7, inspired by Indian heritage and driven by advanced technology.

“We aim to set a new standard in the Indian auto industry by providing consumers with world-class products and services, while engaging with and giving back to the local community,” Kia Motors Corporation president Han-Woo Park says.

In April 2017, Kia Motors signed a memorandum of understanding with the State Government of Andhra Pradesh, India, to build a new manufacturing facility in Anantapur District. Construction of its first manufacturing facility in India is expected to start in the first quarter of this year, with production planned in the second half of 2019, aiming for about 300,000 units annually.

Meanwhile, Indian automaker Tata Motors will display six EVs at the New Delhi show. It intends presenting 26 smart mobility solutions in passenger and commercial vehicles. Tata will also outline plans for the future of India’s “smart cities” and their connected generation.

Mercedes-Benz will showcase its Generation EQ Concept with a 70kWh battery system and a range of around 600km.

Maruti Suzuki will reveal a concept off-road hybrid, e-Survivor, and already plans an all-electric Indian-made vehicle by 2020.

Indian EV maker Mahindra and Mahindra is likely to have EVs ranging from two and three-wheelers to sedans and mini-buses at the show. Electric and hybrid vehicles are also being displayed by Hyundai, Honda and Toyota. Hyundai, for instance, is tipped to reveal a concept Ioniq hybrid and an EV. It’s likely to bring its all-electric Kona SUV to the Indian market.

The Renault Zoe with a range of about 400km is also due at the show, while TVS Motor is expected to have an electric scooter and a hybrid one on display.