The MG Windsor EV Cost: Range & Power Comparison
The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is growing rapidly, with a surge in demand for clean, efficient, and technologically advanced cars. Among the latest entrants is the MG Windsor EV, a Compact Utility Vehicle (CUV) from MG Motors that promises to revolutionize the mid-range electric car segment. Priced competitively and loaded with features, it is designed to attract environmentally-conscious buyers who are also looking for luxury, performance, and reliability. However, one key question remains: How much does the MG Windsor EV cost? And more importantly, how does it compare to other electric cars in terms of range and power? In this blog post, we’ll answer these questions and explore the finer details of the MG Windsor EV.
Understanding the MG Windsor EV Pricing Model
Before delving into the specifics of cost, it’s crucial to understand MG’s unique pricing model for the Windsor EV. Unlike traditional electric vehicles where the battery is included in the total cost of the car, MG has introduced an innovative Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program. This means the cost of the battery is not included in the ex-showroom price. Instead, customers have the option to rent the battery, paying on a per-kilometer basis. This pricing model is designed to lower the upfront cost of purchasing the vehicle while providing flexibility for users in managing long-term running costs.
Base Price: Rs. 9.99 Lakhs (Introductory)
The MG Windsor EV has an introductory ex-showroom price of Rs. 9.99 lakhs. However, this price excludes the cost of the battery. The BaaS program offers a battery rental cost of Rs. 3.5 per kilometer. This means that the overall running cost will vary depending on how much the vehicle is driven. Over time, the total cost of ownership will be affected by the distance traveled, but the initial upfront cost is significantly lower than that of EVs where the battery is included in the price.
For customers who prefer to own the battery outright, MG has not yet released specific details about the total cost of purchasing the Windsor EV with the battery included. It is expected that this would significantly increase the upfront cost, potentially bringing the price in line with other electric vehicles that include batteries as part of their sale.
What Does the Price Include?
Despite the unique BaaS pricing model, the Windsor EV is packed with features that make it a strong contender in its price range. Key features include:
- A 38kWh prismatic cell battery paired with an electric motor that delivers 136bhp and 200Nm of torque.
- A range of 331 km on a full charge, which is competitive in its segment.
- Four driving modes: Eco, Eco+, Normal, and Sport, allowing for varied driving experiences and optimized energy use.
- An expansive 15.6-inch freestanding touchscreen, a fully digital driver’s display, and a floating center console.
- Advanced comfort and safety features, including ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, a 360-degree camera, and blind spot monitoring.
- A sleek design that includes split headlamps, LED DRLs, flush door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, and L-shaped LED taillights.
This range of features is typically found in higher-end vehicles, making the Windsor EV a particularly attractive option for buyers seeking both performance and luxury at a relatively affordable price.
Comparing the MG Windsor EV to Other Electric Cars
With the MG Windsor EV now in the spotlight, it’s time to compare it with other electric vehicles available in the Indian market. The most relevant points of comparison are range and power, as these are critical factors that determine an EV’s performance and appeal to potential buyers.
Range Comparison
The 331 km range offered by the Windsor EV on a full charge is competitive but not industry-leading. Here’s how it stacks up against some of its main rivals:
- Tata Nexon EV: The Nexon EV, one of the most popular electric cars in India, offers a range of approximately 312 km on a single charge. While the Windsor EV slightly edges it out in terms of range, the difference is not particularly significant. However, given the slight edge in driving distance, the Windsor EV may appeal to those who prioritize range.
- Hyundai Kona Electric: The Hyundai Kona Electric, another strong player in the market, boasts an impressive range of 452 km on a full charge. This far surpasses the Windsor EV’s 331 km range, making the Kona a better choice for those who prioritize maximum driving distance without needing frequent recharges. However, the Kona is significantly more expensive, with a starting price of around Rs. 23.75 lakhs (ex-showroom), more than double the base price of the Windsor EV.
- Mahindra XUV400: The Mahindra XUV400 EV offers a range of around 375 km on a full charge, putting it ahead of the Windsor EV but still falling behind the Hyundai Kona Electric. In terms of price, the XUV400 starts at around Rs. 16 lakhs (ex-showroom), making it more expensive than the Windsor but with a slightly better range.
While the MG Windsor EV doesn’t top the list in terms of range, its 331 km capability is more than sufficient for daily urban commuting and occasional long drives, positioning it as a viable choice for city dwellers and occasional highway travelers.
Power Comparison
In terms of power, the MG Windsor EV’s 136bhp and 200Nm of torque provide respectable performance for a vehicle in its price range. Here’s how it compares to other electric cars:
- Tata Nexon EV: The Tata Nexon EV comes with an electric motor that produces 129bhp and 245Nm of torque. While the Nexon offers slightly more torque than the Windsor, the Windsor has a slight advantage in horsepower. Both vehicles provide a similar driving experience, but the Nexon EV’s slightly higher torque might offer better acceleration and responsiveness, especially at lower speeds.
- Hyundai Kona Electric: The Hyundai Kona Electric delivers 134bhp and 395Nm of torque, making it a more powerful vehicle in terms of torque compared to the Windsor EV. This results in quicker acceleration and overall better driving dynamics, especially for those who prioritize performance. However, as mentioned earlier, the Kona’s much higher price point places it in a different category than the Windsor.
- Mahindra XUV400: The Mahindra XUV400 EV offers 148bhp and 310Nm of torque, positioning it as a more powerful option than the Windsor EV. This makes the XUV400 a better choice for buyers seeking stronger acceleration and a more dynamic driving experience. However, this added power comes at a higher price point.
While the Windsor EV doesn’t lead in terms of raw power, its 136bhp is more than adequate for typical driving conditions. The balance of power and price makes it a strong contender in the mid-range EV market, especially for those who are not specifically looking for high-performance vehicles.
Other Key Factors to Consider
Charging Infrastructure
One of the biggest concerns for EV owners in India is the availability of charging infrastructure. MG Motors is actively working to expand its charging network across the country, but it is still in development compared to more established brands like Tata Motors, which have a more widespread charging network in partnership with Tata Power.
BaaS Program Benefits
The Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program provides flexibility for those who drive shorter distances. By paying only for the kilometers driven, users can save on upfront costs and potentially benefit from lower long-term expenses if their driving habits are minimal. However, for high-mileage drivers, the rental cost could accumulate quickly, potentially making battery ownership a more economical option over time. Just as we know How Does Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Work in The New AirPods 4?
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MG Windsor EV offers an attractive package for buyers looking for a well-rounded electric car that balances cost, features, and performance. Priced at Rs. 9.99 lakhs (excluding battery costs), it stands out for its innovative BaaS program, which helps lower the upfront price, making EV ownership more accessible. In terms of range and power, the Windsor EV competes well against its rivals, though it doesn’t lead in either category. It offers a 331 km range, which is more than sufficient for daily commutes and occasional long trips, and 136bhp, providing a solid performance.
For those looking for an affordable entry into the electric car market without compromising on essential features and comfort, the MG Windsor EV is a compelling option. However, buyers should carefully consider their driving habits to determine whether the BaaS model or full battery ownership makes more financial sense over the long term.
