Chery iCar V23 India Testing: Rugged EV SUV with 500km range, will compete with Nexon

Chery iCar V23 was recently spotted testing on Indian roads with heavy camouflage. Under Chery’s partnership with JSW Motors, this electric midsize SUV is going to be launched under the new JSW brand. This car with lifestyle off-roader style like Mahindra Thar EV will compete with SUVs like Tata Nexon in the market.

The first EV from JSW Motors is expected to be launched in late 2026 or early 2027. Due to local manufacturing, the price can also be quite affordable. Perfect for off-roading and eco-friendly style, this SUV can create a stir in the Indian market. Let’s take a look at its possible design, features, safety, battery, motor and range details.

Design and dimensions

Its length is 4220 mm, width is 1915 mm, height is 1845 mm and wheelbase is 2730 mm. It sports a rugged look with a boxy silhouette, upright windshield, round headlamps, flared wheel arches and high ground clearance (205-210 mm). The design is inspired by Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser and G-Wagon. Its neo-retro boxy style makes it perfect for off-roading.

Cabin and Comfort

There is a large 15.4 inch floating touchscreen infotainment system on its flat layered dashboard, which will have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. Below there will be touch-plus physical HVAC controls, retro style center console, 3-spoke steering wheel. The front seats are electric and ventilated, which can fold 180 degrees. There are features like stretchable storage pockets, 540 degree surround view camera, 7-speaker audio and PM2.5 filter.

Features and safety

Features include L2 level ADAS. It may have autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and blind spot detection. It will also be available with parking assist, wireless charging and connected tech. It has achieved 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating (91.02 points). Its safety list includes 6 airbags, ESC, ABS, AEB (city and inter-urban), auto high beam, ISOFIX and pedestrian protection.

Battery, Motor and Range

The powertrain is completely electric. The RWD variant is expected to have a range of up to 401 km (CLTC) with a 136 PS/180 Nm single motor, 59.93 kWh battery. The AWD dual motor variant is likely to get 211 PS/292 Nm, 81.76 kWh battery and 501-510 km range. It will be able to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds (AWD). Top speed is up to 140 km/h. The powertrain can be retuned according to Indian roads.