JSW Motors Chery iCar V23

JSW Motors is understood to be readying its second model in India, expected to launch after the Jetour T2. This new SUV will be based on the Chery iCar V23 sold in China, and a heavily camouflaged test mule has already been spotted on Indian roads. JSW Motors has partnered with Chery Automobile to bring rebadged models to India. Like Jetour, iCar is also a sub-brand of Chery. The India-spec model will to carry a JSW badge and could be priced under Rs 20 lakh, ex-showroom. The iCar V23 has a claimed CLTC range of up to 510km.

In international markets, Chery offers the iCar V23 with two powertrain options. The rear-wheel-drive version makes 136hp and 180Nm and uses a 59.93kWh battery, while the all-wheel-drive version produces 211hp and 292Nm with a larger 81.76kWh battery. The RWD version has a claimed CLTC range of 401km, while the AWD version can go up to 510km on a single charge. In terms of performance, the RWD does 0-100kph in 11 seconds, while the AWD version takes 7.5 seconds. Both have a top speed of 140kph. Depending on the battery pack, the SUV supports DC fast charging speeds between 85kW and 104kW.

The iCar V23 adopts a classic off-road aesthetic with a blacked-out front grille and round headlights. It has a squared-off silhouette, and in terms of exterior features, a roof luggage rack, flush-fitting door handles and a tailgate-mounted storage box are on offer. Speaking of dimensions, the China-spec model measures 4,220mm in length, 1,915mm in width and 1,845mm in height; wheelbase measures 2,735mm. It has an approach angle of 43 degrees, departure angle of 41 degrees and a ground clearance of 210mm (AWD version).

JSW Chery iCar V23 Key Highlights

• JSW Motors has partnered with China's Chery Automobile to bring rebadged models to India
• iCar, like Jetour, is a sub-brand of Chery
• India-spec model likely to get a JSW badge
• Expected price: under Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Maximum claimed range: up to 510km (CLTC)
• Powertrain options (global spec): RWD: 136hp, 180Nm-59.93kWh battery; AWD: 211hp, 292Nm-81.76kWh battery
• Range: 401km (RWD) and 510km (AWD)
• 0-100kph: 11 seconds (RWD), 7.5 seconds (AWD)
• DC fast charging: 85kW to 104kW
• May rival Vinfast VF6, Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, Maruti e Vitara, MG ZS EV and Tata Curvv EV.