Kia Carens Clavis EV, Carens CNG Launch Confirmed!
Kia has revealed the Carens Clavis, which will sell alongside the outgoing Carens, as a more premium, better kitted alternative. The market launch is scheduled to commence on May 23, 2025. Now, NDTV has learnt that the outgoing Carens will soon get a CNG powertrain. The Clavis will spawn Kia's first mass-market EV in the coming months.
Hardeep S. Brar, Vice President and Head of Marketing & Sales, Kia India, reportedly told the publication about the company's EV and CNG plans. This development stands particularly important as Kia is a brand that has always distanced itself from taking the CNG route, even amidst pressure.
The company seems to have finally decided to launch its first CNG car, and the Carens makes just the right fit. The Carens now has a strong presence in the fleet and commercial segments. The addition of a more economical CNG powertrain will only add to its acceptance.
Kia's First Mass Market EV To Be Based On The Clavis
In the presentation that followed the official unveiling of the Clavis, it was clearly mentioned that Kia India will soon launch its first mass-market EV, which would be based on the Carens Clavis. The Clavis EV will be out by June 2025. It will also become India's first mass-market seven-seater electric vehicle.
The all-electric Clavis could have a price of around 20 lakh, ex-showroom. Brar has hinted at the same. The electric vehicle will be offered in two variants, likely with battery pack choices identical to the Creta Electric.
You can choose from two battery packs on the Creta Electric- 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh. The smaller battery is claimed to offer a range of 390 km per charge. The 51.4 kWh unit has an ARAI-claimed range of 473 km per charge.
Talking of the motor outputs, the 42kWh Creta Electric delivers 135 PS while the larger battery comes mated to a motor that generates 171 bhp. The electric SUV is capable of doing the 0-100 kmph sprint in 7.9 seconds.
Circling back to the Clavis EV, we expect to find the same set of battery packs and comparable motor outputs. The manufacturer is yet to make any official remarks on these.
On the design front, most cues are expected to remain the same as the regular Clavis (the petrol/diesel version). It will continue to be based on Kia's 'Opposite United' design philosophy. These have been confirmed by the spy shots. Key deviations from the ICE (Internal Combustion Engined) version would be aero wheels, EV badges and Active air flaps.
It is clear from the design and layout of the ICE Clavis' cabin that the vehicle has been designed with electrification in mind. Most of the interior design cues could remain unaltered on the EV as well. Features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, tumble function for the second row seats, ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof and ADAS are expected on the EV as well.
In the Indian market, the vehicle will face competition from the likes of Tata Curvv.EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV, and the Mahindra BE 6.
Kia Will Launch Hybrids Soon!
Brar also told the publication about Kia's plans to foray into hybrids. The carmaker could launch its first hybrid car in India in the next two years.
Kia already has several hybrid models on sale in many global markets. The manufacturer isn't a rookie in the space. With the Indian buyers becoming warmer towards these, Kia could bring some of its global hybrids to the country.