5 Upcoming EVs: India’s electric car market is gradually moving beyond premium models, with more manufacturers preparing affordable EVs for everyday buyers. Over the next two years, the compact electric vehicle segment could see several new launches, giving customers more choices in terms of price, size, range and features.
At least five new compact EVs are expected to reach Indian showrooms by 2028. Most of these upcoming models are likely to have an SUV-inspired design, while Maruti Suzuki could take a different approach with a smaller and more affordable electric car. Hyundai, Tata Motors, Renault, VinFast and Maruti Suzuki are among the brands preparing new EVs for the Indian market.
5 Upcoming EVs
| Upcoming EV | Expected Launch | Expected Positioning | Expected Range/Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai HE1i | Nov-Dec 2026 | Entry-level electric SUV | Up to around 500 km |
| Next-gen Tata Nexon EV | 2027 | Compact electric SUV | Potentially over 525 km |
| Renault Bridger EV | 2028 | Compact electric SUV | Yet to be revealed |
| VinFast VF X | 2028 | Compact electric SUV | Around Rs. 11.5 lakh expected starting price |
| Maruti Suzuki Affordable EV | 2028 | Small electric car | Below Rs. 10 lakh expected starting price |
Hyundai’s New Entry-Level Electric SUV
Hyundai is expected to launch its new entry-level electric SUV towards the end of 2026, with November or December being the reported launch period. The model, currently known by the codename ‘HE1i’, is being developed with India as an important market. The company is expected to focus on practicality, cabin space and features to appeal to buyers looking for a compact electric SUV.
Spy images of test vehicles have already offered some clues about its design. The upcoming Hyundai EV is expected to have a boxy shape, large windows, a raised roofline and high ground clearance. These elements should help give it a proper SUV appearance while keeping the overall dimensions suitable for city driving. The cabin is also expected to get a modern dashboard with two large screens.
Hyundai EV Could Offer Around 500 Km Range
The battery pack is expected to be one of the biggest highlights of Hyundai’s upcoming EV. The company could offer two LFP battery options, allowing buyers to choose between different price and range combinations. The larger battery pack is reportedly expected to deliver a range of around 500 km, although the final certified figure will only be confirmed closer to the launch.
Hyundai has also confirmed that the model will feature Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems. This could make the compact EV one of the more technologically equipped models in its segment. Along with ADAS, the expected large displays, practical cabin and SUV styling could help Hyundai attract buyers who want modern features without moving into a premium EV.
Next-Generation Tata Nexon EV Expected In 2027
Tata Motors is preparing the next generation of the Nexon, which is expected to arrive around the middle of 2027. An electric version is expected to follow the regular model as Tata continues to expand its EV portfolio. The next-generation Nexon EV could receive major design and technology changes compared with the current model.
The new electric SUV is expected to feature a completely redesigned exterior along with improvements to cabin quality and equipment. Tata could also introduce additional advanced driver assistance features and make changes to the vehicle’s overall build quality. Since the Nexon has already established a presence in the compact SUV segment, the next-generation EV could become an important part of Tata’s future electric vehicle line-up.
Next-Gen Nexon EV Could Cross 525 Km
Tata Motors has not yet revealed the technical specifications of the next-generation Nexon EV. However, the company is expected to continue using LFP battery technology. Improvements in battery capacity, efficiency and electric powertrain technology could help the new model deliver a claimed range of more than 525 km.
The final range will depend on the battery pack, motor and other mechanical specifications selected for the production model. Tata could also focus on improving charging performance and overall efficiency. More importantly, the next-generation Nexon EV is expected to combine a longer range with improved features, which could make it a strong competitor in the growing compact electric SUV segment.
Renault Bridger Could Get An Electric Variant
Renault has confirmed plans to launch the Bridger in India during the second half of 2027. The upcoming model is expected to be positioned in the compact SUV category and could be offered with different powertrain options. An electric variant is also expected to be part of Renault’s plans for the Indian market.
The electric version could arrive sometime in the first half of 2028. Renault has not yet revealed details about its battery capacity, motor output or driving range. However, introducing an electric Bridger would allow the company to compete in the rapidly expanding compact EV segment. Its final price and specifications will determine how it fits into Renault’s India portfolio.
VinFast VF X Expected To Arrive In 2028
Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is also developing a compact electric SUV for the Indian market. The model is currently referred to by the codename ‘VF X’ and is expected to launch sometime in 2028. The company has already started development work and is reportedly targeting a price point that could make the model accessible to a broader range of customers.
The reported starting price is around Rs. 11.5 lakh, ex-showroom. If VinFast manages to keep the production model close to this price target, the VF X could compete directly with mainstream compact SUVs and affordable electric vehicles. Details such as battery capacity, range, dimensions and features are expected to be revealed closer to its launch.
Maruti Suzuki Could Launch EV Below Rs. 10 Lakh
Maruti Suzuki is reportedly developing a new affordable electric car that could have a starting price below Rs. 10 lakh, ex-showroom. According to a recent Fortune India report, the model could be significantly smaller than the other upcoming EVs mentioned here. It may be positioned in the A-segment and designed mainly for urban customers.
The expected range could be similar to the Tata Tiago EV, which offers a claimed range of up to 285 km depending on the battery version. Maruti Suzuki could introduce this affordable EV around 2028. With its focus on smaller cars and extensive dealership network, the company could use this model to bring electric mobility to buyers who may not want to spend money on a larger electric SUV.
5 Upcoming Compact EVs To Watch
- Hyundai HE1i: Expected by the end of 2026, with a larger battery reportedly targeting around 500 km of range.
- Next-generation Tata Nexon EV: Expected after the new-generation Nexon, with a potential range of over 525 km.
- Renault Bridger EV: Expected to arrive after the petrol version, potentially during the first half of 2028.
- VinFast VF X: Expected in 2028, with a reported starting price of around Rs. 11.5 lakh.
- Maruti Suzuki affordable EV: Expected around 2028, potentially starting below Rs. 10 lakh.
Compact EV Market Could Become More Competitive
The arrival of these models could significantly expand the choices available to Indian EV buyers. At present, customers looking for affordable electric cars have fewer options compared with petrol, diesel and CNG vehicles. New models from established manufacturers could increase competition and encourage brands to offer better range, features and pricing.
The growing popularity of compact SUVs is another reason why many manufacturers are choosing this body style for their upcoming EVs. These vehicles offer a higher driving position, practical interiors and relatively compact dimensions, making them suitable for both city use and occasional highway trips. Electric powertrains combined with this popular body style could help manufacturers attract more mainstream customers.
Most of these vehicles are still under development, which means their final prices, specifications, battery options and range figures could change before launch. Still, the upcoming products show that manufacturers are increasingly focusing on affordable electric mobility instead of limiting EVs to premium segments.
Disclaimer: Launch timelines, prices, specifications, battery capacities and range figures mentioned above are based on available reports and manufacturer information where applicable. Final details may change when the respective vehicles are officially launched in India.
Also read:
5 New Maruti Suzuki Cars Expected In India By 2027
Triumph Speed 400, Tracker 400 Become Cheaper With Fresh Price Revision In India
