Kia India on Tuesday launched the country’s first allelectric MPV (multipurpose vehicle), the Carens Clavis EV. The launch is significant as it expands the reach of EV technology beyond hatchbacks and SUVs.

The Carens Clavis EV is available in four variants, based on two battery configurations. The HTK Plus 42 kWh starts at Rs 17.99 lakh, the HTX 42 kWh is priced at Rs 20.49 lakh, while the highercapacity HTX 51.4 kWh comes at Rs 22.49 lakh and the HTX Plus 51.4 kWh at Rs 24.49 lakh. With a seating capacity of seven, the vehicle caters to larger families, setting itself apart from other electric offerings in the market.

Unlike the imported EV6 and EV9 models, the Carens Clavis EV is Kia’s first electric vehicle to be manufactured in India. The company claims an impressive range of 490 km for the 51.4 kWh variant and 404 km for the 42 kWh model. Fastcharging capability is a key feature, with the battery charging from 10% to 80% in just 39 minutes using a 100kW DC charger.

Gwanggu Lee, managing director and CEO of Kia India, said the Carens Clavis EV draws on Kia’s global EV expertise. “Built on the pillars of proven global technology, advanced features, and a ‘recreational vehicle’ philosophy, this EV reflects India’s ambition and togetherness,” he stated.

Powering the MPV are two motor options, the 99 kW and 126 kW, both delivering 255 Nm of torque. This translates to brisk acceleration, with the vehicle capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.4 seconds, even when fully loaded.

The Carens Clavis EV is equipped with an IP67rated battery pack, offering resistance to dust and water. It has undergone a 420mm watersoak test to ensure durability in monsoon conditions. One standout feature is the iPedal driving mode, which maximises regenerative braking to allow singlepedal driving, the car slows and comes to a complete stop when the accelerator is released.

Safety and convenience are also priorities. The MPV features Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) with lanekeeping, emergency braking, and blindspot alerts. Additional safety includes six airbags, electronic stability control, hillstart assist, downhill brake control, and a rear occupant alert system.

While the EV retains most of the visual design from the Carens Clavis ICE version launched earlier in May, it signals a clear shift in Kia’s India strategy. The Carens Clavis EV is set to face fresh competition later this month when JSW MG Motor India introduces its own electric MPV, the M9.