When MG announced the launch of the Windsor EV, I was immediately intrigued. As someone who’s been contemplating the shift to electric vehicles, the Windsor EV seemed like the perfect opportunity to take the plunge. After spending a good amount of time with this crossover EV, I’m excited to share my personal experience and insights.
A New Entry in the Electric Landscape
The MG Windsor EV was recently launched with a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (introductory ex-showroom, pan-India). This pricing, especially with the innovative battery rental scheme, positions it competitively in the market. MG is offering the Windsor EV in three variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence. While the full pricing details are yet to be announced for some variants under the battery rental scheme, the option to purchase the car as a whole is available.
Variant-wise Pricing
- Excite: Rs 9.99 lakh with battery rental scheme; Rs 13.50 lakh for the whole car.
- Exclusive: To be announced with battery rental scheme; Rs 14.50 lakh for the whole car.
- Essence: To be announced with battery rental scheme; Rs 15.50 lakh for the whole car.
- The introductory prices are ex-showroom, pan-India, and the bookings commenced on October 3, with deliveries starting from October 12.
Design and Aesthetics
The moment I laid eyes on the Windsor EV, its crossover design caught my attention. It strikes a balance between modern aesthetics and practical design elements. The connected LED lights at both the front and rear give it a futuristic look, especially noticeable during night drives. The 18-inch alloy wheels add a robust stance to the vehicle, and the flush door handles not only enhance the aerodynamic profile but also add a touch of elegance.
Available in four colours—Starburst Black, Pearl White, Clay Beige, and Turquoise Green—I opted for the Turquoise Green variant. The colour complements the EV’s modern design language and stands out on the road without being overly flashy.
Interior Comfort and Ambiance
Stepping inside, the all-black theme immediately gives a sense of sophistication. The wooden and bronze accents break the monotony and add warmth to the cabin. One of thech reclines up to 135 degrees. This feature was particularly appreciated during longer drives, offering rear passengers enhanced comfort.
The seats are well-cushioned, providing ample support for both city commutes and highway journeys. The driver’s seat is adjustable, allowing for a comfortable driving position, and the visibility from the cockpit is excellent.
Technological Marvel: Infotainment and Features
The centerpiece of the dashboard is the massive 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The display is crisp, responsive, and user-friendly. Navigating through the menus felt intuitive, and the system supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
Complementing the infotainment system is the 8.8-inch digital driver’s display. It provides all the essential information at a glance, from speed and battery status to navigation prompts. The graphics are sharp, and the customization options allow drivers to prioritize the information they deem most important.
Another feature I found incredibly convenient was the wireless phone charger. It’s strategically placed, ensuring that the phone stays secure even during abrupt stops or turns. Additionally, the panoramic fixed glass roof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of space. While it’s a fixed roof and doesn’t open, it does come with a sunshade for those scorching afternoons.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, or rather under the floor, the Windsor EV houses a 38 kWh battery pack. It delivers 136 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque. On paper, these numbers seemed promising, and on the road, the vehicle didn’t disappoint.
Acceleration is smooth and linear, typical of electric vehicles. The instant torque makes city driving a breeze, allowing for quick overtakes and effortless navigation through traffic. The vehicle feels planted on highways, and the ride quality is commendable. The suspension absorbs most road imperfections, ensuring a comfortable journey for all occupants.
The steering is light, which is excellent for urban driving, but it also offers enough feedback to instill confidence at higher speeds. Noise insulation is impressive, with minimal road and wind noise seeping into the cabin.
Battery Life, Range, and Charging Options
One of the most critical aspects of any EV is its range and charging capabilities. The Windsor EV boasts an MIDC-claimed range of up to 331 km. In real-world conditions, I managed to get around 280-300 km on a full charge, which is impressive and sufficient for my daily commutes and occasional weekend trips.
MG offers an innovative battery rental scheme for those who might be hesitant about the battery’s long-term viability. The rental fee is Rs 3.5 per km, with a minimum charge for 1,500 km. While this cost can vary based on driving habits, it’s an excellent option for those looking to lower the initial purchase price or alleviate concerns about battery degradation over time.
Charging the Windsor EV is convenient, especially with MG’s network of public charging stations. Customers opting for the battery rental scheme can enjoy free charging at public stations for one year through the eHUB app. For home charging, a standard AC charger replenishes the battery overnight, while DC fast-charging options can significantly reduce downtime during longer trips.
Safety First
Safety has always been a priority for me, and the Windsor EV doesn’t skimp in this department. The vehicle comes equipped with six airbags, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants. The 360-degree camera is a boon in tight parking spots, offering a clear view of the surroundings and minimizing blind spots.
Additionally, MG offers a lifetime battery warranty for the first owners, which is a testament to their confidence in the vehicle’s durability and a significant reassurance for buyers.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Windsor EV’s pricing strategy, especially with the battery rental scheme, makes it accessible to a broader audience. Starting at Rs 9.99 lakh for the Excite variant under the rental scheme, it undercuts many competitors in the segment. Even purchasing the vehicle outright offers good value, considering the features and performance on offer.
When evaluating the cost of ownership, it’s essential to consider the savings on fuel and reduced maintenance costs associated with EVs. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment, making the Windsor EV an economically sound choice.
Comparing with Rivals
In the current market, the MG Windsor EV competes directly with models like the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. Having test-driven the Nexon EV prior to this, I can say that while both vehicles have their merits, the Windsor EV offers a more premium feel, especially in terms of interior quality and technological features.
The Nexon EV is slightly more affordable, but the Windsor EV’s extended range and larger battery capacity give it an edge for those concerned about longer drives. The Mahindra XUV400, on the other hand, offers robust performance but lacks some of the advanced features and interior refinement found in the Windsor EV.
MG Windsor EV Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Competitive Pricing: The starting price, especially with the battery rental scheme, makes it an attractive option in the EV market.
- Innovative Battery Rental Scheme: Offers flexibility and lowers the initial cost of ownership, addressing concerns about battery degradation.
- Attractive Design: The crossover design with modern elements and appealing color options makes it visually appealing.
- Comfortable Interior: The spacious cabin, reclining rear seats, and panoramic glass roof provide a pleasant experience.
- Advanced Technology: The large touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display, and wireless charger enhance convenience and connectivity.
- Impressive Performance: Smooth acceleration and a comfortable ride make it enjoyable to drive in various conditions.
Cons:
- Battery Rental Costs: While lowering the upfront cost, the battery rental scheme can add to the long-term running costs depending on usage.
- Charging Infrastructure: While MG is expanding its network, the availability of public charging stations might still be limited in some areas.
- Competition: The EV market is becoming increasingly competitive with new models being launched regularly.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to an electric vehicle is a significant decision, and the MG Windsor EV has made that journey an exciting one for me. It combines modern design, advanced technology, and practical performance in a package that’s both appealing and accessible.
The driving experience has been delightful, from the silent operation to the responsive acceleration. The convenience of charging, coupled with the range it offers, has alleviated my initial concerns about long-distance travel.
MG’s approach to pricing, especially with the battery rental scheme, shows a keen understanding of the market’s needs. It lowers the entry barrier for many potential EV owners and provides flexibility in ownership.
After spending quality time with the MG Windsor EV, I can confidently say it’s a strong contender in the electric vehicle segment. It offers a well-rounded package that caters to both first-time EV buyers and seasoned enthusiasts.
For anyone on the fence about making the switch to electric, the Windsor EV is worth serious consideration. It not only meets the practical needs of daily commuting but does so with style, comfort, and a host of features that enhance the overall driving experience.
The future of mobility is undoubtedly electric, and with offerings like the MG Windsor EV, that future looks promising and exciting.
General FAQs:
Q. What is the starting price of the MG Windsor EV?
The MG Windsor EV starts at Rs 9.99 lakh (introductory ex-showroom, pan-India) with the battery rental scheme.
Q. What are the different variants available for the Windsor EV?
It is offered in three variants: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence.
Q. What is the claimed range of the Windsor EV?
The MIDC-claimed range is up to 331 km. In real-world conditions, it’s expected to be around 280-300 km.
Q. What is the battery rental scheme, and how does it work?
The battery rental scheme allows you to rent the battery instead of buying it outright, lowering the initial cost. The rental fee is Rs 3.5 per km with a minimum charge for 1,500 km.
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