Renault Kwid EV and Kia Carens Clavis EV: A Dual Focus on Electric Family Cars
Summary for July 22: Critique of the Kia Carens Clavis EV and the Ultraviolette F77, along with additional reviews...
The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is rapidly expanding, with both established and new players introducing their electric offerings. This article will delve into two significant entries: the upcoming Renault Kwid EV and the recently launched Kia Carens Clavis EV.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: A Family-Friendly Electric MPV
As Kia’s first made-in-India electric vehicle, the Carens Clavis EV is the electric incarnation of the Carens MPV, a well-known family car with a practical, 3-row layout[1]. The Clavis EV aims to combine family-friendly practicality with the smoothness and convenience of electric mobility.
Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the Carens Clavis EV feels reassuringly familiar, with an experience that closely mimics traditional ICE-powered cars—minus the noise and vibration[2]. The cabin is impressively quiet, and the controls are light and easy to use, making it approachable for those new to electric vehicles[1].
Practicality and Comfort
The 3-row seating is usable even for adults, a rare feature in this segment. The third row is practical, not just an afterthought, and the overall packaging is sensible for large families[1]. The interior boasts quality materials, user-friendly controls, and a generous suite of features, enhancing both comfort and luxury[1].
Range and Charging
Equipped with either a 42 kWh or 51.4 kWh battery, the Carens Clavis EV offers a promising range. The 51.4 kWh variant boasts an ARAI-certified range of 490 km. Real-world figures are yet to be fully validated, but expectations are high, and range anxiety seems unlikely for typical family use[4]. The Carens Clavis EV supports both AC and DC fast charging, with an 11 kW AC wallbox fully charging the car in 4–4.75 hours depending on the variant. A 100 kW DC fast charger can top up from 10% to 80% in about 39 minutes[3].
Renault Kwid EV: A Potential Competitor in the Small Car Segment
While the Carens Clivas EV has already hit the Indian roads, the Renault Kwid EV remains a speculation. If launched, the Kwid EV could challenge the MG Comet EV and Tata Tiago EV in the Indian market.
The design of the new generation Renault Kwid EV takes inspiration from the Duster, giving it a more rugged and modern look[5]. If launched, the Kwid EV could provide an electric car option in the small car segment in India.
Performance and Features (Speculative)
Details about the Kwid EV's performance and features are not yet confirmed. However, it is expected to offer a smooth and quiet electric drive, similar to the Carens Clivas EV[2].
Ultraviolette F77 Mach 3: A Performance Upgrade
Separately, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 3 has received an upgrade in performance through a software update called Ballistic Plus mode. This update has enhanced the performance of the Mach 3, making it a more exciting electric vehicle option[6].
Conclusion
The Kia Carens Clivas EV largely delivers on its promises: it offers a satisfying, familiar, and refined driving experience with strong performance when needed, excellent practicality for families, and a generous suite of features and safety tech[1][2][4]. The ride is comfortable for daily use, and the electric powertrain is smooth and quiet.
If the Renault Kwid EV is launched, it could provide an affordable and practical electric car option in the small car segment. Until then, the Kia Carens Clivas EV continues to impress with its blend of family-friendly features, modern EV performance, and accessible pricing.
[1] Kia Carens Clivas EV: First Drive Review [2] Kia Carens Clivas EV: First Drive Review [3] Kia Carens Clivas EV: Specifications and Features [4] Kia Carens Clivas EV: Range and Charging [5] Renault Kwid EV: Design Inspiration [6] Ultraviolette F77 Mach 3: Ballistic Plus Mode
The Renault Kwid EV, once launched, could potentially compete in the small car segment, offering an electric car option that Challenges the MG Comet EV and Tata Tiago EV in India. The Kia Carens Clivas EV, with its practical 3-row seating, quiet cabin, and smooth electric drive, seamlessly integrates family-friendly practicality and electric mobility. Meanwhile, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 3's software update increases its performance, turning it into an exciting electric vehicle option for performance enthusiasts.
