Rumour: Kia plans to launch its first EV in India by 2021

Kia Motors India is planning to build electric vehicles (EV) and hybrids at its upcoming facility at Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh and will reportedly launch its first EV in India by 2021.

The carmaker has currently lined up 3 products for the Indian market. Their first offering will be a compact SUV based on the SP Concept. It is likely to be called Tusker and will compete with cars like the Hyundai Creta and the Renault Duster. The company plans to build 2 more SUVs in India, which includes a sub-4 metre SUV.

Kia is also considering a few other models from its global line up for India. These include SUVs like the Sportage and Sorento, which could be imported via the CKD route. Recently, there have been reports of Kia evaluating the Grand Carnival MPV and the Stonic compact SUV as well. At present, the company is conducting a market study to find out which model from its global portfolio could be localized and launched in India. 

Meanwhile, 65% of the construction at Kia's new manufacturing facility has been completed.

Source: Economic Times