Chery iCar V23-based EV to launch in India

JSW Motors is understood to be readying a second model for launch in India after the Jetour T2, based on the Chery iCar V23 that's sold in China. A heavily camouflaged test mule of what appears to be an electric SUV based on the iCar V23 was even recently spotted testing in India. Notably, JSW Motor aims to establish itself as an independent car brand, and has a tie-up with Chinese carmaker Chery to bring rebadged models into the Indian market. 

1. Just like Jetour, iCar is a subsidiary brand of Chery
2. It could be priced under Rs 20 lakh, ex-shworoom
3. iCar V23 has a CLTC-rated maximum range of 510km

JSW aims to establish itself as an independent carmaker, and the EV will therefore be launched outside its joint venture with MG. Just like Jetour, iCar is a subsidiary brand of Chery. In addition to the V23, iCar also has the hybrid V27 SUV in its portfolio. In fact, the India-spec car will likely have a JSW badge, and it may be priced under Rs 20 lakh, ex-showroom.

Chery iCar V23 market positioning

Could rival midsize EVs here

International-spec model (image used for representation).

The China-spec model sits on a 2,735mm wheelbase and measures 4,220mm in length, 1,915mm in width and 1,845mm in height. The exact dimensions of the new JSW EV are not known yet, but if they are similar to the model it is based on, it will compete in the midsize electric SUV segment. Currently, this space is populated by Vinfast VF6, Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, Maruti e Vitara, MG ZS EV and Tata Curvv EV.

In international markets, Chery offers the iCar V23 with two powertrain options: a 136hp, 180Nm rear-wheel-drive setup (59.93kWh) and a more potent 211hp, 292Nm all-wheel-drive configuration (81.76kWh). The RWD version delivers a claimed China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) range of 401km, while the AWD model has a maximum claimed range of 510km on a single charge (also CLTC). Performance figures stand at a claimed 0-100kph time of 11 seconds for the RWD and 7.5 seconds for the AWD version, with both having a top speed of 140kph. Depending on the battery pack, the SUV supports DC fast charging speeds between 85kW and 104kW.

International-spec model (image used for representation).

It remains to be seen which powertrain JSW-Chery will introduce for India. The above mentioned electric SUVs from Vinfast, Hyundai, Mahindra, Maruti, MG and Tata do not offer an AWD option at the moment, so that could help the upcoming JSW EV stand out. Equally important will be its ARAI-certified range, something that is crucial for EV buyers. 

It is worth noting that the launch of the Jetour T2 plug-in hybrid SUV, which was initially slated for the second half of 2026, has reportedly been pushed back due to slow approvals for importing Chinese components. It will be assembled at the brand’s upcoming manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra, and the iCar V23-based EV is likely to follow the same route. Based on how things stand at the moment, its launch could take place around 2027.