India’s electric vehicle market is set for a major boost in 2026, with sales expected to cross the 2-million-unit mark annually as charging infrastructure expands and consumer confidence grows. Leading automakers are preparing a fresh wave of compact and mid-size electric SUVs tailored for Indian roads, focusing on affordability, longer ranges, and feature-loaded cabins. Here are the top five highly anticipated EV launches scheduled for next year.
Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara will lead the charge, arriving as early as January 2026 and marking Maruti’s first mass-market electric SUV. Built on the dedicated HEARTECT-e platform in collaboration with Toyota, it offers two LFP battery packs—49 kWh (up to 346 km WLTP) and 61 kWh (up to 428 km WLTP, potentially 543 km ARAI in India)—with front-wheel-drive and optional ALLGRIP-e all-wheel-drive variants. Packed with Level-2 ADAS, dual 10.25-inch screens, a panoramic sunroof, and a subscription-based Battery-as-a-Service option, the e-Vitara is expected to be priced under ₹20 lakh, making it a volume game-changer.
Tata Sierra EV is slated for a February–March 2026 launch, reviving the iconic 1990s nameplate on Tata’s Gen 2 Acti.ev architecture. Available in rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, it promises a 450–500 km range, a frunk, one-pedal driving, V2L bi-directional charging, and strong off-road capability. With retro-futuristic styling, a triple-screen cockpit, and Level-2 ADAS, the Sierra EV will target buyers seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern technology, priced around ₹15–25 lakh.
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Mahindra XUV 3XO EV will enter the fray in the first half of 2026 as a more compact and affordable alternative to the XUV400, directly challenging the Tata Nexon EV. Powered by a 35 kWh NMC battery delivering around 400 km of range, it retains the aggressive styling of its ICE sibling along with twin 10.24-inch screens, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and Level-2 ADAS. Starting at an estimated ₹15 lakh, it aims to broaden Mahindra’s Born Electric portfolio with aggressive pricing and high localisation.
The Kia Syros EV is expected by March 2026, sharing the K1 platform with Hyundai and mirroring the recently launched ICE Syros in design while adding EV-specific touches like a front charging port and green brake callipers. Likely equipped with 42 kWh or 49 kWh batteries for a 350–400 km range, it will offer premium features such as sliding ventilated rear seats, a 12.3-inch dual-display setup, Harman Kardon audio, and Level-2 ADAS. Positioned below ₹15 lakh, the Syros EV targets style-conscious urban buyers looking for a refined compact electric SUV.
The Hyundai Inster EV (codenamed HE1i) will round off the year with a late-2026 launch as a premium rival to the Tata Punch EV. Built locally at Sriperumbudur with Exide batteries, it offers 42 kWh (97 hp, ~300 km) and 49 kWh (115 hp, ~355 km WLTP) packs, along with dual 10.25-inch screens, V2L capability, a 360-degree camera, and connected-car tech. Priced around ₹12 lakh, the Inster EV will strengthen Hyundai’s mass-market electric push with compact dimensions ideal for city use and a strong feature-to-price ratio.
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