A new charge, for a family so large

WE DROVE INDIA'S FIRST MASS-MARKET ELECTRIC CAR FOR A BIG FAMILY

- VIKRAM CHAUDHARY

IN A MARKET full of electric SUVs, the Kia Carens Clavis EV seems like a breath of fresh air. While most electric cars are focusing on power, performance, range, and some even on off-road fun, this Kia is targeting a family that travels together.

I drove India's first mass-market EV with seven seats (42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery options).

How's the design?

It's similar to the Carens Clavis ICE (petrol and diesel), but there are subtle differences—the EV has a closed grille, different alloy wheels, 'EV' badging, and air flaps for low drag. The cabin has a centre console with a 'floating design', the gear lever has been shifted behind the steering wheel (a stalk), the instrument cluster has EV-specific information such as range/charge etc, the paddle shifters are for adjusting regeneration levels, and a frunk (front trunk) under the bonnet.

How's the cabin?