Introduction

India’s electric vehicle market is set to enter its most exciting and transformational phase. With scattered charging facilities and limited model options, the market is now moving into a scale-up phase, where longer ranges, faster charging, and a variety of body types will finally align with real-world expectations of Indian families, commuters, and long-distance travelers.

Surge in consumer interest driven by range improvements, subsidies, and lower running costs

• Longer driving ranges are now becoming mainstream, with upcoming EVs aiming for 450–650 km on one single charge—solving the biggest barrier to EV adoption.

• Government subsidies and state incentives under ongoing EV policies make the cars far more affordable than their equivalent petrol/diesel models, especially for personal ownership.

• The ultra-low running cost of ₹0.90–₹1.20 per km against ₹6–₹9 per km in ICE cars is driving the interest among daily city commuters and high-mileage users.

Why 2025 launches matter:

• New-generation EV platforms, such as skateboard, INGLO, or acti. EVs offer gains in efficiency, larger boot space, stronger safety structures, and more cabin room than the converted ICE models of earlier years.

• Larger and more reliable battery packs, in the range of 60-85 kWh, will push real-world range over 500 km, removing range anxiety for inter-city travel.

• High-speed charging capability (150–350 kW DC) in up-and-coming models means 10–80% in less than 30 minutes, which enables highway practicality.

• Diversification into compact SUVs, premium SUVs, and even 7-seaters has ensured that EVs are no longer restricted to small urban hatchbacks.

• Major automakers entering EVs seriously will create stronger competition, better pricing, and faster innovation: Maruti, Mahindra, and Tata.

Preview of three EVs that promise to reset Indian customers’ expectations

• Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara — to become India’s first truly mass-market long-range EV from the country’s largest carmaker.

• Tata Harrier EV-a premium electric SUV that combines high battery capacity with feature-rich hardware and highway-ready performance.

• Mahindra XEV 9S: a full-size 7-seater EV that brings family practicality and long-distance travel ability into the electric world.

• Combined, they represent three different segments of buyers: everyday family EV buyers, premium SUV seekers, and large-family adventure travellers.

• These launches mark that tipping point where EVs cease to be alternatives and start becoming the new default choice for new car buyers.

EV 1 — Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara

The Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara is the first serious step by the brand into the electric SUV segment and is expected to redefine EV accessibility in India. Being a mid-size SUV, it aims to mix long-range capability, family practicality, and mass-market affordability — something Indian buyers have been waiting for from the country’s largest car manufacturer.

With Maruti’s strong legacy of reliability and service, the e-Vitara is not just another EV launch but also a milestone that could change the transition of mainstream households from petrol and diesel to electric.

First full-scale launch by Maruti in the mid-size EV segment

• Unlike the small or experimental EVs expected earlier from Maruti, this is a direct entry into a high-demand SUV category, signaling large-scale intentions.

• Competes with best-selling ICE SUVs such as Creta, Grand Vitara, and Seltos, making sure that EV does not feel like a downgrade in size or features.

Expected to be the brand’s biggest EV push after the eVX concept

• The eVX concept’s design and platform learnings are likely to underpin a production model with a more refined interior and improved aerodynamics.

• The success of the e-Vitara will form the base for future Maruti EVs, including hatchbacks and compact SUVs in the coming years.

Key Highlights

• Dual-battery strategy assured buyers to choose based on their daily needs or highway travel.
• Bigger pack targeting ~500–550 km, providing highway freedom for customers migrating from diesel SUVs.

Why It Matters

Great service network advantage

• Maruti has the widest dealership + service network in India, dispelling anxiety over EV repair, parts availability, and long-term support.

• Adoption by Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities becomes easier as servicing will not be restricted to metro cities.

• Mass-market buyer influence might finally kickstart widespread EV adoption.

• Maruti’s entry acts as a market signal-if the brand is investing aggressively, the EV shift is serious and inevitable.

• Successful pricing might push other brands to reduce prices and benefit the whole EV ecosystem.

Whom It’s For

• families living in urban areas

• A large cabin, long range, and low running cost will suit multi-purpose usage: office + school + weekend trips.

Daily commuters

• Suitable for high-mileage city travel: low operating cost and infrequent charging cycles.

First-time EV buyers

• Trust in the brand Maruti removes the fear of resale value, longevity, and uncertainty in the maintenance of a vehicle.

Two Things to Watch

Real-world range vs claimed figures

• The actual efficiency with AC usage, traffic, and highway speeds will determine the true value, especially for buyers switching from diesel.

• Charging infrastructure availability for the wider masses. Essentially, what would drive the success of the e-Vitara beyond metros is the availability of fast chargers across smaller cities and highways, not specifications on paper.

EV 2 — Tata Harrier EV

The Tata Harrier EV embodies the substantial effort that Tata Motors has focused on to leverage the electric mobility space with a strong presence in the premium SUV segment. It marries long-range capability with high-end comfort and advanced safety features, in a package targeted at both family and adventure-oriented buyers. With an evolved strategy at Tata towards EVs.

The Harrier EV is supposed to be less of a city-focused electric vehicle than a highway-ready performance SUV that bridges the gap between power, luxury, and sustainability. Its bold exterior updates, next-generation platform upgrades, and improved motor and battery integration signal that Tata is now ready to compete not just in mass-market EVs but also in the premium segment, where customer expectations are significantly higher.

Tata extends EV line-up into the premium SUV segment.

• First mainstream electric SUV from Tata to take on feature-rich ICE SUVs like the Compass, Harrier, Hector, and the upcoming Creta EV.

• Brings EV technology into a segment where most buyers are demanding power-packed performance, strong road presence, and long-distance practicality.

Focus on design and safety with the architecture activity. ev Plus

• Built on an enhanced version of Tata’s acti. EV platform, featuring improved structural rigidity, increased space for batteries, and better overall weight distribution.

• Expected to be fitted with high safety credentials, similar to the Harrier diesel, including ADAS 2.0, a reinforced body structure, multiple airbags, and AI-based driver assist.

• Large battery capacity for premium performance, with minimal charging stops on intercity routes.

Expected range: 500–600+ km

• Real-world, long-range capability targeted directly at diesel SUV drivers who enjoy long stretches of uninterrupted driving between cities.

• Larger battery variant expected to push highway, making it one of India’s longest-range mainstream EVs.

AWD expected in top trim

• Its dual motor setup will likely provide strong off-road capability and high-torque performance, broadening the SUV’s usability beyond urban driving.

• Increase in performance while navigating hilly/uneven terrains, rainy/slippery roads, and overtaking families with an adventurous mindset.

Why It Matters

• Targets premium SUV buyers who previously didn’t have a compelling EV alternative.

• Most of the electric SUVs available until now have been compact/mid-size; Harrier EV finally gives buyers a proper full-size SUV experience without the fuel cost burden.

• It could convert many diesel loyalists if the pricing remains competitive.

Reinforces Tata’s leadership in the EV segment

• Builds on Tata’s dominance with Nexon EV + Punch EV and scales it to higher value segments.

• Will push competing brands like Mahindra, Hyundai, and MG to accelerate launches in the premium EV segment, benefiting the entire market.

Whom It’s For

• Highway travellers

• With large batteries, long-range capabilities, and AWD, this is ideal for frequent intercity users.

Long-distance users

• Those transitioning from diesel SUVs will appreciate the high torque, which provides smooth cruising and fewer charging stops.

SUV-focused buyers

• Strong road presence, tall driving position, feature-rich cabin, and commanding performance appeal to lifestyle buyers.

Two Things to Watch

• Pricing vs ICE Harrier

• If priced aggressively, it could become the default premium EV in India; price it too high, and it risks losing the diesel loyalists.

• Charging speed and efficiency for long trips. Success will be determined by fast-charging capability at 150 kW and above, as well as real-world charging curve behaviour.

EV 3 — Mahindra XEV 9S

The Mahindra XEV 9S will no doubt be one of the most important electric SUV launches in India in the near future, as it emerges as a true 7-seater electric vehicle built for large families, road-trip enthusiasts, and even business travellers who need space without compromising comfort and performance. Unlike most electric SUVs currently optimised either for city use or compact layouts, the XEV 9S sets out to introduce big-SUV practicality-three rows, luggage space, and long-range driving-into the electric era.

Large 7-seater electric SUV

• Purpose-built EV platform ensures more cabin space, a flat floor, and a large battery area

Expected ~80+ kWh pack, long-range focus

• A liquid-cooled, large-capacity battery designed to support highway travel, performance loads, and multiple passengers.

• It’s also aimed at 550–650 km of real-world range, depending on the variant and driving conditions, a priority for buyers transitioning from diesel SUVs.

• Performance variants will probably pack dual-motor AWD configurations for rapid acceleration with confident handling on all terrains.

Why It Matters

First high-volume 7-seater EV designed for family + travel buyers

• Addresses one major gap: most EVs so far have been five-seat models that make long family vacations or group travel difficult.

• It could be an excellent electric alternative to big SUVs like the Fortuner, Safari, and Alcazar for highway drive comfort and boot space.

Expands EV relevance beyond compact city-focused models

• Shifts the industry narrative from “EVs are for cities” to “EVs can conquer highways and road trips too”.

• This is forcing other brands to consider larger, travel-friendly EVs in their line-ups, hence speeding diversification within the segment.

Whom It’s For

• Joint families

• True 7-seat practicality means all three rows are usable for adults.

Comparison Snapshot

• Ideal for families and new EV adopters seeking reliability, strong brand network support, and urban-highway usability.

• Tata Harrier EV Suits buyers who want power, long-distance confidence without fuel dependence.
• Mahindra XEV 9S Tailored for big families and road-trip travellers who need 3 usable rows, long range, and comfort for extended journeys.

Conclusion

2025 will be the year when EVs make the much-needed transition from being a niche early adoption experiment to mainstream family mobility in India. Buyers aren’t forced into range anxiety versus practicality decisions anymore, as this fresh wave of electric SUVs has been built for daily commutes, highway touring, and full-family comfort.

The Maruti e-Vitara, Tata Harrier EV, and Mahindra XEV 9S reflect this shift amply with larger battery packs, expectations of real-world ranges over 500 km, advanced suites of safety equipment, and clear segmentation depending upon buyer needs.

With more EV options available, purchasers should consider:

• Availability of the Charging network in their city and commonly visited places

• Real-world range tests post-launch instead of claimed ARAI figures.

• Fast-charging speed and charging curve for long trips

Boot space and cabin practicality

• Final thought: If you’re considering a new EV in late 2024 or 2025, it may be smarter to wait for these coming 2025 launches.

FAQs

Q1. What EV coming in 2025 will have the longest range?

The Mahindra XEV 9S and Tata Harrier EV are expected to deliver the highest range among 2025 launches, estimated at around 550–650 km.

Q2. What is the expected price of the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara?

The Maruti e-Vitara is likely to be priced between ₹20 lakh and ₹30 lakh for the version, range option, and feature package.

Q3. When will the Tata Harrier EV launch in India?

The Tata Harrier EV is expected to arrive in 2025, and pre-bookings will likely start by mid-2025.

Q4. Will the Mahindra XEV 9S be a 7-seater?

Yes, the Mahindra XEV 9S will be a proper 7-seater electric SUV, designed especially for big families, road-trip users, and long-distance travelers.

Q5. Which electric vehicle is ideal for the highway?

The Tata Harrier EV should be the most capable on the highway, thanks to a high battery capacity, strong range estimates, and optional AWD for stability and traction.

Q6. Should I wait for 2025 EVs or purchase an EV now?

Those who want longer range, faster charging, larger battery packs, and next-generation platforms would be wiser to wait for 2025 EV launches. If you need an EV mainly for city driving, current models are already sufficient and value-friendly.