MG Motor has once again set the stage ablaze with the launch of its latest electric offering, the MG Windsor EV. Positioned between the Comet EV and the ZS EV, this new electric crossover has been making waves with its competitive pricing and impressive features. Starting at just Rs 9.99 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom), the Windsor EV has shocked many, as it was speculated to be priced around Rs 20 lakh. This aggressive pricing has placed it on par with several internal combustion engine (ICE) compact SUVs, truly shaking up the EV landscape in India. The CUV is being offered in 3 variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence. Bookings start from 3rd October'24, and deliveries will be scheduled from 12th October'24. Let's dive into what makes this EV stand out.
A Unique Ownership Experience with BaaS
One of the most groundbreaking features of the MG Windsor EV is its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program. This innovative rental scheme allows customers to pay only for the battery usage, effectively reducing the upfront cost of ownership. At Rs 3.5 per km, the BaaS program offers an economical alternative to traditional fuel-based vehicles, cutting down fuel costs by 40%. This could make electric mobility more accessible to a wider audience in India.
Impressive Design with a Modern Touch
From the outside, the MG Windsor EV sports a clean, minimalist crossover design that still feels thoroughly modern. The connected LED lighting at both the front and rear enhances its sleek aesthetic, while flush-type door handles and large 18-inch aerodynamically styled alloy wheels contribute to a futuristic look. The charging flap, conveniently placed on the front left fender, is a small but thoughtful touch for easy access.
MG offers the Windsor EV in four striking color options—Starburst Black, Pearl White, Clay Beige, and Turquoise Green—giving buyers a variety of stylish choices.
Luxury Meets Technology in the Cabin
Inside, the Windsor EV exudes sophistication with its all-black cabin theme, accented by wooden and bronze inserts that give it a premium feel. The black leatherette seat upholstery, coupled with a flat-bottom leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, ensures that the cabin feels both luxurious and comfortable. With a first-class airline cabin-like experience, passengers in the second row can recline the rear seats up to 135 degrees, get individuals headrests, and a center armrest (in case of 2 passengers) further adds to the comfort for longer rides. The CUV comes with a huge boot space of 604 ltrs.
In terms of tech, the Windsor EV truly shines. The massive 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system—the largest ever offered by MG in India—takes center stage, paired with an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display that offers all the necessary information at a glance. Features like wireless phone charging, automatic climate control, ambient lighting and a powered driver’s seat add to the convenience, while MG’s Infinity View Glass Roof—a panoramic glass roof exclusive to the India-spec model—floods the cabin with natural light, making it feel even more spacious.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Windsor EV is powered by a 38 kWh LFP battery that uses prismatic cells to deliver energy to a single front-mounted electric motor. This setup produces 134 bhp and 200 Nm of torque, allowing the car to offer a respectable range of up to 331 km on a single charge (ARAI tested). Drivers can choose from four driving modes—Eco, Eco+, Normal, and Sport—to suit their preferences and optimize the car's performance and energy consumption. The charging time is as follows- 13.8 hours with a 3.3 kW AC Charger, 6.5 hours with a 7.4 kW AC Fast Charger, and just 55 minutes with a 50 kW DC Fast Charger.
Safety and ADAS Features
Safety is a priority for MG, and the Windsor EV is no exception. Equipped with Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), the crossover includes features like six airbags, a 360-degree camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). These advanced safety features ensure that the Windsor EV is not just a comfortable drive but also a secure one.
Industry-First Lifetime Warranty and Other Perks
In a first for the Indian automotive industry, MG is offering a Lifetime Warranty on the Windsor EV’s battery pack for the first set of owners. This warranty is applicable for unlimited kilometers, providing peace of mind for early adopters. Additionally, customers can enjoy free public charging for up to one year when they use MG’s eHUB app, further reducing the cost of ownership.
Competing in a Growing EV Market
With its competitive pricing and a host of premium features, the MG Windsor EV is positioned as a serious competitor in India’s EV market. It faces rivals such as the Tata Curvv EV and MG ZS EV, as well as crossover alternatives like the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400 EV. Its pricing, which is on par with several ICE compact SUVs, makes it a compelling option for those looking to switch to electric mobility without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
The MG Windsor EV brings together affordability, technology, and sustainability in a package that is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle landscape in India. Its introduction of the BaaS program, coupled with industry-first perks like the lifetime battery warranty, sets it apart from the competition. Whether you're looking for an eco-friendly city commuter or a tech-packed family car, the MG Windsor EV offers a compelling blend of innovation and value.
