Goodbye 2022: Top EV brands & models that arrived in India this year – EQ Mag
It’s time to take a look at the top brands and models in the electric vehicle segment that arrived in India in 2022. While some were indeed promising, others ensured to bring sizable updates to the existing range. Either way, it was a good year for the electric mobility segment.
So, as we bid goodbye to the current year, here’s a quick look at the new brands and electric vehicles that arrived in India in 2022. Lots of promise, lots of anticipation and certainly plenty of range, here are our top picks.
1. BYD Atto 3
Chinese auto giant BYD entered the passenger vehicle market last year but its true entry to the private car segment only happened in 2022. The automaker first made the e6 MPV available for private buyers and followed it up with the very capable Atto 3 a few weeks ago. The BYD Atto 3 is an electric compact SUV and as we find out on our first drive, it is an extremely capable machine. The electric offering promises over 201 bhp, 521 km of range, and plenty of features. The quirky looks also leave a mark and so does the premium fit and finish. The steep pricing may be a put off but there’s plenty to like about the Atto 3 and the direction BYD is heading into.
2. Mercedes-Benz EQB/EQS
Mercedes-Benz India was at its offensive best when it came to the electric mobility segment. The automaker not only brought global flagships like the EQS and EQS 53 AMG to the Indian market but both models are being locally assembled as well. It clearly shows the brand’s commitment to the Indian market and the segment as well. Not just these but the automaker also introduced the EQB electric SUV this year. The new offering is the manufacturer’s most accessible EV in India and offers the practicality of seating seven in comfort. This is just the start of Mercedes’ EV offensive with more planned in the coming years.
3. Kia EV6
Making its debut in the electric mobility market this year was Kia India. The automaker introduced the EV6 electric SUV this year promising plenty of range with an action-packed driving experience. Arriving as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the model has been well received with most units allocated for India sold out. The Kia EV6 is premium, fun and quite practical too, which makes it apt for our customer needs. On the bright side, Kia is planning to showcase the EV9 at the upcoming Auto Expo 2023, so be rest assured that more EVs are incoming.
4. Volvo XC40 Recharge
The Volvo name is known for its brilliant products and this year, we finally got the brand’s first all-electric offering in India. The Volvo XC40 Recharge is the brand’s most accessible EV in the country and a rival to the Kia EV6. It’s spacious, practical, loaded on features and just what you would expect from the Swedish carmaker. It also drives brilliantly as we found out in our review. Volvo plans to bring at least one new EV every year to India and that has us excited for sure.
