The latest information emerging about the JSW Chery iCar V23-based electric SUV suggests that the company is preparing an electric lifestyle SUV for the Indian market that could offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability along with a rugged design. This model is expected to stand out as a potential pioneer in the electric off-roading segment in India.
Rugged Design Inspired by Classics
The iCar V23 (also known as iCaur V23 in export markets) features a distinctive boxy, retro-inspired stance that draws cues from classic off-roaders like the Toyota Land Cruiser J40, Land Rover Defender, and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. Key design elements include:
- Flared wheel arches
- Upright proportions
- Round headlights
- Horizontal slats and an open grille (uncommon in EVs)
- Side steps
- A practical tailgate with potential storage for charging cables
Dimensions are compact yet commanding: approximately 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, 1,845 mm in height, and a generous 2,735 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is around 205-210 mm (AWD version), with strong approach (up to 42-43°) and departure angles, plus a water wading depth of around 600 mm. These specs position it as more capable than typical urban EV crossovers.
Powertrain Options with AWD PotentialI
nternationally, the iCar V23 offers flexible powertrains that could make the India-spec JSW version versatile:
- RWD Variant: 59.93 kWh battery with a rear motor producing ~136 hp and 180 Nm. Claimed range up to ~401 km (CLTC).
- AWD Variant: Larger 81.76 kWh battery with dual motors delivering ~211 hp and 292 Nm. 0-100 km/h in about 7.5 seconds, top speed ~140 km/h, and range up to ~510 km (CLTC) / ~430 km (NEDC).
DC fast charging support ranges from 85 kW to over 100 kW. The dual-motor AWD setup, if offered in India, would give it a unique edge with no direct electric off-road rivals in its segment.
Interior and Features
The cabin leans into a modern-retro theme with off-road-inspired elements such as grab handles. Highlights include a large 15.4-inch touchscreen, digital instrumentation, premium upholstery, and a practical four-seat layout in some configurations. Features like ADAS, connected tech, and V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability are expected.
JSW Motors’ Plans and Market Positioning
JSW Motors, entering the Indian passenger vehicle market independently (while maintaining its JV with MG), is leveraging its partnership with Chery to bring rebadged and adapted models. The iCar V23-based SUV is likely to be one of the early offerings — possibly the third after models based on the Jetour T2 (PHEV) and Jaecoo J5 (eSUV) — with local assembly planned at JSW’s new facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra
Pricing is expected to start under ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), making it competitive against models like the Mahindra BE 6, Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, and upcoming electric lifestyle SUVs. A potential launch timeline points to 2027-2028
Significance for India’s EV Market
If the AWD variant reaches Indian roads with its rugged capabilities, the JSW Chery iCar V23-based model could indeed become the country’s first serious electric off-roader — appealing to adventure enthusiasts seeking zero-emission exploration. It blends retro charm, modern EV efficiency, and practical off-road hardware in a segment hungry for differentiation.
