A fully camouflaged prototype of the upcoming Chery iCAUR V23 has been spotted undergoing road tests in India, hinting at a possible launch later this year. The electric SUV is expected to enter the Indian market under a new automotive venture led by JSW Group, potentially forming part of its independent car brand.
The sighting indicates that the collaboration between Chery Automobile and JSW could soon translate into a locally marketed electric SUV designed to compete in India’s rapidly expanding EV space.
The spied unit, heavily camouflaged in full wrap, was caught during what appears to be homologation and validation runs, possibly at or near facilities like ARAI in Pune. Recent sightings (as of early March 2026) highlight its strong road presence, towering over compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon in spy shots, underscoring its commanding proportions and mini off-roader aesthetic.Measuring approximately 4.2 metres (4220 mm) in length, 1.9 metres (1915 mm) in width, and 1.8 metres (1845 mm) in height, the Chery iCAUR V23 adopts a bold, upright stance with short overhangs for enhanced approach and departure angles. Key design highlights include:
A distinctive open grille—a rare feature in modern EVs, giving it a retro-modern, non-traditional electric look.Flared wheel arches that emphasize its muscular, off-road-ready posture.Air vents with horizontal slats integrated into the bumper and sides, likely aiding aerodynamics and cooling for the battery and motors.Circular headlamp signatures (visible beneath camouflage in some images) and a high ground clearance setup, positioning it as a capable urban-to-trail electric SUV.
Globally, the iCAUR V23 (launched in markets like China under Chery’s iCar sub-brand) offers rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, with power outputs ranging from around 134 hp to over 400 hp in high-performance variants. Battery options from CATL deliver claimed ranges up to 550 km (CLTC cycle), with fast-charging support. It has already earned a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, boasting comprehensive safety features like 6 airbags, ADAS suite (including AEB, BSD, and more), and robust structural protection.
For the Indian market, the model is expected to be locally assembled at JSW Motors’ upcoming greenfield facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. This localization strategy should help keep pricing competitive—industry speculation points to a starting figure potentially under ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an accessible premium electric SUV in the sub-₹25 lakh segment.
The iCAUR V23-based EV will form part of JSW’s broader rollout through its standalone brand, following earlier models like the Jetour T2-based PHEV (anticipated around Diwali 2026) and potentially a Jaecoo-derived eSUV. While exact launch timing for this electric variant remains unconfirmed, reports suggest it could arrive in late 2026 or early 2027, capitalizing on growing demand for rugged, lifestyle-oriented EVs that blend off-road appeal with zero-emission driving.
As JSW Motors accelerates its entry into India’s passenger vehicle space via strategic Chery partnerships, the spied iCAUR V23 signals exciting competition ahead for established players in the electric compact-to-midsize SUV segment. With its unique boxy design, proven safety credentials, and off-road chops, this model could carve out a niche as a practical, adventure-ready EV for Indian buyers seeking something beyond conventional crossovers.
