Kia Motors is all set to expand its electric vehicle lineup in India with the much-anticipated Kia Carens Clavis EV. Designed for urban families and young professionals, the Clavis EV will be a compact electric SUV positioned below the Kia EV6, focusing on affordability, practicality, and futuristic design.
Slated for launch in late 2025 or early 2026, the Clavis EV will play a vital role in Kia’s broader EV strategy for India, aligning with the government's push for green mobility and the rising demand for electric cars in the compact SUV segment.
⚡ What is the Kia Clavis EV?
The Kia Clavis EV is expected to be a compact electric SUV, built specifically for emerging markets like India. Internally codenamed Kia AY, it will share its platform with the upcoming ICE and hybrid versions of the Carens Clavis but will be tailored as a born-EV model, possibly riding on a flexible platform optimized for electric mobility.
🛠️ Design & Dimensions
While Kia has kept the official details under wraps, spy shots and early reports suggest a boxy and upright stance, ideal for city roads and occasional highway trips. Key design elements expected include:
- Closed-off EV grille for improved aerodynamics
- Split LED headlamps and DRLs with a modern light signature
- Chunky cladding and roof rails for an SUV appeal
- Futuristic alloy wheels to minimize drag
- Dual-tone color options for a sporty look
In terms of size, the Clavis EV is likely to measure just under 4 meters in length, helping Kia offer it at a competitive price while staying within the compact SUV tax bracket in India.
⚙️ Powertrain & Battery Specs
The Kia Clavis EV will likely come with a front-mounted electric motor and FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) layout. While final specifications are yet to be confirmed, industry sources indicate:
- Battery Pack: Likely to be around 35 kWh to 40 kWh, suitable for city usage
- Range: Expected to offer a real-world range of 300–350 km on a single charge
- Charging: Support for DC fast charging (up to 50 kW) and standard AC wall-box charging
- Motor Output: Estimated power output of 90–100 bhp, with instant torque delivery
This puts it in the same league as Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400 in terms of performance and usability.
🚗 Features & Interior
Being a Kia, the Clavis EV is expected to come packed with modern features and tech. Possible highlights include:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster
- ADAS features (Level 1) in top variants
- Connected car technology (Kia Connect)
- Auto climate control, cruise control, and ventilated seats
- Regenerative braking with multiple levels
- Drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport
Interior layout may be similar to the existing Carens, with a minimalistic dashboard and premium materials, offering a tech-forward cabin experience.
💸 Expected Price & Competition
The Kia Clavis EV is expected to be priced between ₹12 lakh to ₹16 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and battery pack offered. It will compete directly with:
- Tata Nexon EV
- Mahindra XUV400
- MG ZS EV (base variant)
- Upcoming Maruti-Toyota electric SUV
- Hyundai Exter EV (expected in the same segment)
Kia could also introduce flexible ownership models and battery warranty packages to make the EV ownership experience more seamless.
🗓️ Launch Timeline
According to multiple sources, production of the Kia Clavis EV is expected to begin in late 2025, with an official launch timeline set for early 2026. Kia is also expected to unveil the ICE and hybrid versions of the Clavis around the same time.
🌿 Kia’s Commitment to EV in India
The Clavis EV marks an important step in Kia’s EV roadmap for India. With the premium Kia EV6 already on sale and the Kia EV9 in global markets, the brand is now turning its focus toward mass-market electric vehicles, targeting volume growth in India.
Kia also plans to localize EV components, including battery packs and motors, to make its future EVs more affordable and competitive in India.
✅ Final Thoughts
The Kia Carens Clavis EV could be a game-changer in India’s budget EV SUV market. With a smart mix of design, range, and features — all backed by Kia’s reliability and innovation — it is poised to attract eco-conscious families and urban buyers alike. If priced right, the Clavis EV may well become one of India’s most popular electric SUVs in the coming years.
Stay tuned for the official unveiling and more tech details as we get closer to 2026!
