The first day of the much-anticipated Auto Expo 2023, officially known as The Motor Show, kicked off with a spectacular array of electric vehicle launches and concept reveals, setting a clear tone for the future of mobility in India. The event, being held at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, saw industry giants like Tata Motors, Hyundai, MG Motor, and Kia unveil their latest offerings on January 11, 2023.
Electric Dreams Take Center Stage
The spotlight was firmly on electric vehicles. Hyundai made a massive splash with the launch of the made-in-India IONIQ 5 EV, with prices starting at Rs 44.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The launch was graced by brand ambassador Shah Rukh Khan. The IONIQ 5, based on the dedicated e-GMP platform, features a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function supplying up to 3.6 kW of power. Hyundai also showcased the IONIQ 6, making its Indian debut.
Not to be outdone, Tata Motors sent the crowd into a frenzy by revealing the fully-electric Harrier EV. The electric SUV boasts a dual-motor setup, with one motor on each axle, providing an all-wheel-drive configuration. Tata also showcased the near-production version of the Sierra EV and the futuristic Avinya EV concept. Furthermore, the near-production Curvv concept with an internal combustion engine was displayed, with its launch slated for 2024.
New Launches and Strategic Reveals
Beyond pure EVs, several significant updates and new models were presented. MG Motor launched the 2023 Hector facelift and showcased the MG 4 electric hatchback and the eHS plug-in hybrid SUV at its pavilion.
Kia revealed the EV9 electric SUV concept and the KA4 MPV, which is the next-generation Carnival. The KA4 promises luxury with features like slide-flex second-row seats and ADAS.
Tata Motors also expanded its alternative fuel portfolio by revealing i-CNG versions of the Punch and Altroz. The company announced two new turbocharged petrol engines (1.2L and 1.5L T-GDi), with the larger unit likely destined for the Harrier and Safari.
Global Brands and Broader Highlights
The international presence was strong. Lexus announced the India launch of the LM later in the year and showcased the RX SUV in two models: the RX 500h F Sport Performance (with a 2.4L turbo-petrol hybrid) and the RX 350h Luxury. Bookings for the RX opened at the expo.
Chinese automaker BYD announced the Seal electric sedan for the Indian market, claiming a range of up to 700 km, and introduced a new Forest Green colour for the Atto 3 SUV. Toyota displayed the previous-gen Prius and a flex-fuel Corolla Altis, while the Volvo-Eicher JV unveiled a 13.5-meter electric bus.
The day concluded with a clear message: the Indian automotive industry is charging full speed ahead into an electric and sustainable future, with 2023 poised to be a landmark year for new consumer choices.
