Kia drives in its first India-built EV

Kia India has launched its first made-in-India electric vehicle (EV), the Carens Clavis EV, with prices starting at ₹17.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The Clavis EV is designed to offer a spacious, feature-rich, and affordable electric driving experience. Based on Kia’s proven global electric vehicle technology and adapted for Indian conditions, it marks the brand’s foray into the electric Recreational Vehicle (RV) segment.

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Gwanggu Lee, Managing Director and CEO of Kia India, stated that the Carens Clavis EV represents the next step in the company’s EV journey. He highlighted that the vehicle is built on three key pillars: Kia’s global EV expertise, advanced features aimed at simplifying the driving experience, and the brand’s RV philosophy that promotes movement, flexibility, and togetherness.

The vehicle comes with two battery options: a 42kWh pack offering an ARAI-certified range of 404 km (MIDC) and a larger 51.4kWh pack certified for 490 km. It is available with two motor configurations—99kW and 126kW—both delivering 255Nm of torque, enabling strong acceleration even with a full load of seven passengers.

Fast charging capabilities allow the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 39 minutes using a 100kW DC charger. It also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for powering external devices. The IP67-certified battery is both dustproof and waterproof and has been rigorously tested for Indian conditions. A liquid-cooled thermal management system enhances battery safety in high temperatures, said a statement.

Designed with daily convenience in mind, the Clavis EV features paddle shifters with four levels of regenerative braking, including i-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving. Auto Mode further optimizes regeneration levels based on real-time driving conditions, making for a more efficient and smoother ride, it added.

Inside, the Clavis EV offers a cabin experience with a 67.62 cm dual panoramic display, ventilated front seats, a Bose audio system, 64-color ambient lighting, and intelligent features like one-touch tumble seats and a smart pure air purifier. Other highlights include a floating center console, a powered driver’s seat, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

On the safety front, the Carens Clavis EV offers Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with over 20 autonomous features such as smart cruise control with stop & go, front collision-avoidance assist (including junction turning), blind view monitor, and driver attention warning. The EV is further equipped with 18 high-safety features including six airbags, electronic stability control, all-wheel disc brakes, ISOFIX mounts, and rollover sensors that trigger airbag deployment.

In terms of design, the Clavis EV reflects Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy, featuring the signature Digital Tiger Face, Star Map LED DRLs and tail lamps, and 17-inch dual-tone aero alloy wheels. It comes with 200mm ground clearance and a 25-litre front trunk (frunk).

The Carens Clavis EV also offers 90 connected features via the MyKia app, including real-time charging status, scheduled charging, range alerts, and remote control functions. Through the K-Charge platform, users can access over 11,000 public charging stations across India. Kia has also prepared over 250 EV-ready service workshops and more than 100 dealerships with DC fast chargers to support its customers.

The Carens Clavis EV is available in four variants—HTK Plus, HTX, ER HTX, and ER HTX Plus—and comes in six color options, including the new Matte Ivory Silver. The pricing starts at ₹17,99,000 for the HTK Plus variant with a 42kWh battery. The HTX variant, also with a 42kWh battery, is priced at ₹20,49,000. For those opting for the larger 51.4kWh battery, the ER HTX is available at ₹22,49,000, while the top-end ER HTX Plus is priced at ₹24,49,000 (all prices ex-showroom).

To enhance the ownership experience, Kia is offering digital conveniences like an AI-powered owner’s manual, live video consultations, and the ‘My Convenience e-Plus’ package that includes scheduled maintenance, extended warranty, and roadside assistance—ensuring peace of mind for customers throughout their EV journey.

 

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