MG has unveiled the Windsor EV in India, introducing a novel Battery-as-a-Service model while delivering a stylish and spacious interior, aimed at revolutionizing electric mobility for Indian consumers.

Discovering the MG Windsor EV

MG Motors has brought a breath of fresh air to the Indian electric vehicle market with the launch of the Windsor EV. Priced at an enticing Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), this innovative vehicle marks an exciting chapter for MG, especially following their collaboration with JSW earlier this year. As the latest addition to their growing EV lineup, which includes the ZS EV and the quirky Comet, the Windsor aims to capture the imagination of Indian consumers looking for sustainable and practical mobility solutions.

A New Approach with Battery-as-a-Service

One of the stand-out features of the MG Windsor is its unique approach to battery ownership through the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model. Here, buyers are offered a radical choice: they can purchase the car without a battery and opt instead for a rental service. This means an upfront cost reduction, allowing consumers to pay a modest fee of just Rs 3.5 per kilometer driven. This not only lowers the initial acquisition cost but also diminishes the per-kilometer expense—a boon for city dwellers attempting to navigate the complexities of urban transport. Bookings for the Windsor will begin on October 3, with deliveries set to roll out shortly after, on October 13.

Exterior Design: Bold Yet Minimalist

Upon first glance, the MG Windsor immediately establishes its identity, blending a formidable stance characteristic of an MPV with the spacious allure of a larger hatchback. Adorned with flush door handles and a striking stepped front-end prototype, the Windsor exudes a sense of modern sophistication. Full-width LED light bars at both ends and a large glasshouse that wraps around the interior give it a futuristic edge, while practical design touches such as steeply raked windscreens offer a certain aerodynamic charm.

Interior Comfort: Space Meets Technology

Stepping inside the Windsor is akin to entering an airy sanctuary. Adopting a minimalist aesthetic—perfect for the demands of an electric vehicle—the interior boasts generous space that promises comfort for both driver and passengers. Unlike many current offerings that feature cramped design, the Windsor capitalizes on its electric architecture to provide a roomy and inviting cabin.

Central to the driving experience is a commanding 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, paired with a digital instrument cluster that catches the eye. One of the most compelling innovations is the Aero Lounge seats, allowing the front passengers to recline fully to a remarkable angle of 135 degrees—perfect for long journeys or those tedious traffic snarls.

Critically, MG has incorporated physical controls for the HVAC system, a feature appreciated by many in a market where touch controls are often the norm. It strikes a fine balance between sleek modernism and functional ease. Additional highlights include a panoramic glass roof and wireless charging capabilities, ensuring the Windsor is as future-ready as it is user-friendly.

Performance and Range: Efficiency Meets Power

Driving the MG Windsor is a promise of efficiency wrapped in stylish packaging. The vehicle is powered by a 38kWh LFP battery, delivering a claimed range of 331 km—ideal for urban excursions and weekend road trips alike. The front-axle mounted electric motor produces a robust 136 hp and 200 Nm of torque, translating to an engaging driving experience, regardless of the selected driving mode. Enthusiasts can choose from Eco+, Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, each designed to cater to different driving conditions and personal preferences.

In a noteworthy initiative, MG is extending a lifetime warranty on the battery for the first buyers, coupled with free public charging for the initial year—an alluring offer that underscores the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and confidence in their product.

The Market Impact

The MG Windsor has the potential to reshape expectations within the EV segment, where traditional pricing and ownership models have often deterred prospective buyers. By introducing the BaaS model, MG not only lowers barriers to entry but also positions itself as an innovator in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. This could resonate strongly with the cost-conscious consumer, making the Windsor EV a compelling proposition for first-time electric vehicle buyers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion: A Vehicle for the Future

In recent years, India’s automotive scene has increasingly reflected broader trends towards sustainability and innovation. The MG Windsor emerges as an extraordinary blend of comfort, style, and practicality tailored specifically for our unique market. With its out-of-the-box BaaS approach, spacious interior, and cutting-edge technology, the Windsor EV might just be the catalyst to drive a more significant shift towards electric mobility in the country. As we await the official bookings and subsequent deliveries, one thing is certain: the MG Windsor is not just a car; it’s a vision of the future of driving.