Kia Plans Dedicated Electric Taxi Variant To Boost EV Fleet Adoption
31 Jul 2025, 03:04 PM
- New electric 7-seater aimed at the taxi and mobility market
- Expected price around ₹18.19 lakh with 404 km MIDC range
Kia is targeting a special aftermarket fleet operator market with a Carens Clavis EV HTM variant, a product intended for taxi and commercial operation purposes. This step emphasizes the proposition of a green, low-cost and practical alternative to diesel-powered MPVs. Scheduled for delivery around Diwali 2025, an e-7 seater car can become a game-changer in India’s e-cab market.
Key Highlights
The HTM variant is based on the Carens Clavis HTK+ 42kWh trim but comes with features tailored for commercial operations:
- Power and range: 42kWh battery delivering 404 km MIDC certified range with a 133 bhp, 255 Nm motor.
- Fast charging: 10–80% charge in just 39 minutes for quick turnaround.
- Fleet tech: Real-time GPS tracking and an 80 km/h speed limiter for safe and efficient fleet use.
- Passenger focus: 7-seater layout, giving taxi operators a capacity advantage over many rival EVs.
Feature Optimizations For Taxi Use
To keep pricing practical, Kia is making some smart feature changes:
Removed features:
- Dual-pane sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Premium cabin accents
- Alloy wheels (replaced by steel rims)
Retained/added features:
- LED headlamps with DRLs
- Dual 12.25-inch displays
- Cruise control and i-Pedal single-pedal driving
- Shift-by-wire gear selector
- Front parking sensors
These tweaks focus on reducing running costs without compromising safety and essential comfort for long working hours.
Market Positioning And Competition
The HTM variant is expected to compete with both diesel MPVs and existing fleet EVs:
| Model | Powertrain | Range (Claimed) | Seating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Clavis EV HTM (plan) | EV, 42kWh, 133 bhp | 404 km (MIDC) | 7 | GPS, Speed Governor, Steel Rims |
| Toyota Innova Crysta GX | Diesel, 2.4L | ~600 km (real) | 7 | Diesel, Premium Feel |
| BYD e6 Fleet | EV, 71.7kWh | 522 km (ARAI) | 5 | Premium fleet EV |
| Tata X-Pres T EV | EV, 26kWh | 315 km (ARAI) | 5 | Affordable sedan EV |
Why This Move Matters
Switching to EV taxis means lower running costs and reduced emissions. Estimates suggest a taxi running 75,000 km per year could save up to ₹4 lakh annually compared to a diesel MPV. Add to that the low maintenance of EVs, and the Clavis HTM becomes an attractive option for fleet owners.
Launch Timeline
The Carens Clavis EV HTM is already undergoing road tests, with sources indicating a launch around Diwali 2025.
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