Connect with us

EV news

BYD Declines Short-Term Application for India’s New EV Policy Benefits

Published

on

BYD Skips India’s EV Policy

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has decided not to seek benefits from India’s new EV policy immediately. The Indian government introduced the policy in March, aiming to attract global EV manufacturers like Tesla. The policy allows reduced customs duties for importing vehicles and aims to boost local manufacturing.

Key Aspects of India’s New EV Policy

India’s new EV policy offers a reduced 15% customs duty on imported electric cars priced at USD 35,000 or more. This benefit is available for five years. It is intended to encourage companies to set up local production facilities in India. To qualify, manufacturers must invest Rs 4,150 crore (USD 500 million) in an Indian manufacturing plant. The plant must become operational within three years. In addition, the company must achieve 25% domestic value addition (DVA) in the same period, with a goal of reaching 50% in five years.

Manufacturers can import up to 8,000 completely built units (CBUs) per year at the reduced rate. Any unused import quota can be carried over to the next year.

BYD’s Decision on the Policy

Rajeev Chauhan, BYD India’s Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, announced that the company would not apply for these benefits in the short term. After reviewing the policy, BYD concluded that the company is not ready to commit to it yet. “We are not applying,” Chauhan said.

BYD is focusing on using homologation to meet demand in India. This process certifies vehicles for road use under Indian regulations. Chauhan mentioned that BYD would observe the market before deciding on long-term investments. For now, the company prefers to take smaller steps.

BYD’s Homologation Strategy

BYD will import the eMAX 7 multipurpose vehicle (MPV) and SEAL sedan under the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) certification. This method limits BYD to importing 2,500 units. Chauhan said BYD will explore gaps and opportunities in the market. When demand exceeds government limits, BYD will consider using homologation instead of local production.

This strategy allows BYD to expand in India without a large upfront investment in local manufacturing. Chauhan emphasized the advantages of eventually having a manufacturing plant but noted the company isn’t there yet.

BYD’s New Vehicle Launch

Recently, BYD launched the all-electric eMAX 7 MPV in India. Priced between Rs 26.9 lakh and Rs 29.9 lakh, the MPV comes in six-seat and seven-seat variants. The eMAX 7 showcases BYD’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Chauhan said the vehicle reflects the company’s dedication to bringing the latest global technology to Indian consumers.

BYD’s decision to import rather than produce locally aligns with its cautious approach. By importing vehicles under ECE certification, the company can test the waters before committing to larger investments.

Impact of Geopolitical Tensions

Chauhan declined to discuss challenges related to geopolitical tensions between India and China. However, the current political environment likely plays a role in BYD’s cautious approach. The company’s choice to avoid long-term commitments for now may be partly influenced by these external factors.

Long-Term Outlook

Though BYD has chosen not to take immediate advantage of the new EV policy, the company remains open to future developments. Chauhan indicated that BYD’s long-term plans will require patience. The company will continue to assess the market and respond to consumer needs.

For now, BYD’s focus is on ensuring success with its current models, like the eMAX 7 and SEAL sedan. If these models perform well, BYD may reconsider its stance on applying for benefits under the policy.

Conclusion

BYD’s decision to delay applying for India’s EV policy benefits shows a careful strategy. The company aims to explore the market through homologation before committing to large investments. With models like the eMAX 7 already available, BYD continues to bring innovation to Indian consumers while keeping its long-term options open.

Article By
Prashant Sharma

 

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

EV news

MG Comet EV Stylish, Affordable, and Efficient Electric Car

Published

on

MG Comet EV Smart, Stylish, and Affordable Electric Car

With its futuristic design, practicality, and efficiency, the MG Comet EV has quickly established itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market in India. This small electric car, which will be available in 2025, is designed for urban commuters and small families looking for an eco-friendly transportation option that is stylish and affordable. It is a strong contender in the expanding EV market because of its sleek design, impressive driving range, and affordable pricing.

The MG Comet EV has a futuristic, modern design that sets it apart from other cars on the road and is made to attract attention. A minimalist grille and LED light strips give the front end a tech-forward, sophisticated appearance. Its small size, streamlined aerodynamic lines, and practical design make it ideal for driving in cities, making it easy to maneuver even on congested streets. The vehicle’s stylish 13-inch alloy wheels and distinctively crafted LED tail lamps at the rear enhance its exterior design and give it a distinctive road presence.

The Comet EV has a youthful appeal because it comes in vibrant colors like Moonlit Silver, Starry Black, and Cherry Red. The MG Comet EV’s interior, despite its compact dimensions, surprises with its thoughtful design that maximizes space. A touchscreen infotainment system with a 10-inch screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity for passengers and drivers. The essential driving information is displayed in a clear and simple format on the digital instrument cluster. Premium fabric upholstery enhances the interior of the vehicle, and leatherette seating in higher models provides a more opulent experience.

Comfort features include automatic climate control, steering-mounted controls, and a rear-view camera for added convenience. The Comet EV’s dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors ensure a safe driving experience and keep safety a top priority. The 30 kWh electric motor under the hood of the MG Comet EV gives it a driving range of approximately 250-300 km on a full charge, making it an excellent option for daily commutes and short-distance travel. The electric powertrain gives you instant torque, which makes driving smooth and quiet.

Regenerative braking is a feature of the vehicle that helps increase efficiency by recovering energy during deceleration. A standard home charger, which takes 6-8 hours to fully charge, and a fast-charging station, which can recharge the battery in 1-2 hours, are two charging options. The MG Comet EV’s affordability is one of its most appealing features. With a starting price of around ₹8.5 lakh (ex-showroom), it stands out as one of the most budget-friendly electric cars available in India.

In the expanding market for electric vehicles, the Comet EV offers excellent value for money due to its stylish design, advanced features, and eco-friendly performance. It’s a big step toward making sustainable transportation more accessible to more people while keeping the appeal of a modern, well-equipped vehicle.

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

Continue Reading

EV news

BYD Seal Honored as Japan’s Best Electric Car

Published

on

BYD Seal Wins Prestigious Japan EV Award

At the third Japan Annual EV Awards, BYD’s Seal EV sedan received the prestigious title of EV of the Year 2024. This is yet another honor for the company. Following the success of its Dolphin EV, which won the award last year, this victory marks BYD’s second consecutive victory at the awards. The recognition highlights BYD’s rapid advancements in technology, design, and performance and further solidifies the company’s position in the global market for electric vehicles.

There was a lot of competition among electric vehicles at the Japan Annual EV Awards, but the BYD Seal came out on top. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 came in third, followed by the Honda N-VAN e, which came in second place. The outcomes show that the EV market is becoming increasingly competitive, with both established and new automakers pushing the boundaries to create innovative and effective electric models.

The BYD Seal will go on sale in Japan in 2024 in two versions: one with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and one with four-wheel drive (4WD), which is more powerful. With dimensions of 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, the sedan has a sleek and aerodynamic design. Customers looking for an electric sedan that is both stylish and practical will find this model to be an appealing option due to its spacious 2,920-mm wheelbase, which contributes to a ride that is both comfortable and stable. The BYD Seal’s performance further differentiates it from rivals. The 4WD version is one of the fastest electric sedans in its class, going from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.8 seconds. With driving distances of 510, 600, and 650 kilometers, the Seal caters to a variety of requirements and usage patterns.

The car also supports fast charging, which allows it to charge from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes. This makes it convenient for people who need to recharge quickly while they travel. The BYD Seal’s impact on the EV market is further emphasized by the recognition from EVsmart, the organization behind the Japan Annual EV Awards. The award’s organizers claim that the Seal received unanimous praise in both industry and public voting, with the elegant design and outstanding performance playing major roles in its victory.

The award committee emphasized that the BYD Seal not only demonstrates the capabilities of contemporary electric vehicles but also establishes new industry standards by providing an excellent driving experience. The BYD Seal also received another prestigious title in Japan in addition to the EV of the Year award. The sedan’s status as a leading electric vehicle was further bolstered when it was selected by the Japan Car of the Year Selection Committee as one of the “Top Ten Best Models” for the years 2024–2025. The Seal’s growing popularity and its appeal to both consumers and industry professionals are emphasized by this additional recognition.

The company’s strategic expansion into key international markets is exemplified by BYD’s success in Japan. Utilizing its expertise in battery technology and electric powertrains, the automaker has been rapidly expanding its presence outside of China to compete with established players. Foreign manufacturers face a significant obstacle in the Japanese market, which is known for its strong local brands and high automotive standards.

The fact that BYD was able to win the Japan Annual EV Awards in consecutive years demonstrates the company’s capacity to meet and exceed these expectations. The expanding popularity of BYD in Japan also indicates a larger shift in the automotive industry. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, which offer competitive pricing, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality designs, are increasingly challenging conventional automakers, including the giants of Japan.

Companies like BYD are competing with well-known brands in international markets as a result. Looking ahead, BYD is expected to continue its expansion into global markets, with the Seal playing a key role in its strategy. The Seal is well-positioned to expand BYD’s customer base and further cement its position as a market leader in the electric vehicle sector thanks to its superior performance, cutting-edge features, and widespread recognition in the industry

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

Continue Reading

EV news

World EV Day 5 Electric Cars India Deserves to See

Published

on

World EV Day 5 EVs India Wants on Its Roads

With automakers all over the world continually pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, World EV Day is a significant moment in the ongoing transition toward cleaner mobility. Even though they have not yet been introduced to the Indian market, a number of international models of electric vehicles have caught the attention of enthusiasts in India as the demand for them grows. Many of these vehicles are highly sought after by Indian consumers due to their groundbreaking technology, exceptional range, and performance capabilities.

The Model Y from Tesla is one of these, and its potential entry into the Indian auto market has made it a hot topic. This electric SUV has a long-range battery that can travel up to 531 kilometers on a single charge, making it one of the brand’s most popular models worldwide. In its Performance version, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.5 seconds. In addition, the vehicle has a roomy interior, advanced autopilot features, and access to Tesla’s well-established Supercharger network, which could revolutionize the adoption of electric vehicles in India.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is yet another model that is attracting a lot of attention. Even though traditional Mustang fans may disagree about using the iconic name on an electric SUV, this vehicle manages to keep a few muscle car features while still providing impressive performance. It has battery options with ranges of up to 502 kilometers and capacities of 70 kWh to 91 kWh.

A single-motor rear-wheel-drive model and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive model are available to customers. The high-performance GT Performance Edition is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and produces 480 horsepower and 634 lb-ft of torque, making it a formidable competitor in the EV market. The futuristic design and robust performance capabilities of Tesla’s Cybertruck have also made headlines.

The Cybertruck is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and has a battery that has a range of up to 547 kilometers. The highest-end Cyberbeast model has 845 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 2.6 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive model has 600 horsepower. The extreme off-road and towing capabilities of this vehicle make it an appealing option for adventurers who want an electric pickup with utility and high performance.

Another model from Volkswagen, the ID.2all, has received a lot of attention because it looks like the popular Volkswagen Polo. Most people think that this electric hatchback is the all-electric version of the Polo, a car that was very popular in India. The ID.2all has front-wheel drive with a single motor and 220 brake horsepower. There will be two battery options for the vehicle: a smaller battery with 38 kWh and a larger battery with 56 kWh. The larger battery has a range of about 450 kilometers. The vehicle’s 56 kWh battery is said to support 125 kW charging, making it a practical and efficient option for city dwellers and long-distance travelers alike.

It can be charged to 80 percent in just 20 minutes. The Baojun Yep and Yep Plus might be a good choice for people who like small electric SUVs. Even though these models aren’t as well-known as the others on this list, they meet the needs of Indian buyers well, especially those looking for a small, affordable electric SUV. According to reports, JSW MG Motor has already filed patents in India for the Yep and its electric SUV with five seats. This strongly suggests that these models will soon be available in India. It’s interesting that the Baojun Yep is built on the same foundation as the MG Comet EV, which may make it easier to sell to Indian customers.

Despite the lack of official confirmation, the potential arrival of these models highlights the growing focus on affordable, compact electric vehicles designed specifically for India’s urban landscape. These international models offer a glimpse into what the future may hold for Indian consumers, as the Indian EV market continues to develop. It is only a matter of time before more globally acclaimed electric vehicles make their way onto Indian roads thanks to advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and increasing government incentives.

Article By
Sourabh Gupta

Continue Reading

Trending