MG Windsor EV debuts: How its battery-as-a-service ownership model works
MG has introduced its latest electric vehicle (EV), the Windsor, in the Indian market. The introductory price for this new model starts from ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This launch marks MG's first product release in India following its partnership with JSW earlier this year. The Windsor is the third EV to join MG's lineup after the ZS EV and Comet. The Windsor EV comes with a unique Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, making it a more affordable option for potential buyers.
How Windsor EV's BaaS model works
When you purchase the Windsor EV, you'll pay two separate EMIs: one for the car itself, which starts at ₹9.99 lakh, and the other for the battery. The battery cost is calculated on a pay-as-you-go basis at a rate of ₹3.5 per kilometer. MG claims that this battery cost is equivalent to running a petrol or diesel compact SUV, which typically costs around ₹10 per kilometer. So, if you drive the EV for 60,000km, you pay just ₹2.10 lakh more.
What are the benefits of BaaS model for EVs
BaaS is a pricing model allows for more flexible ownership options, especially for those concerned about the long-term cost of the battery. If you were to own the battery outright, you might have to pay a significant upfront cost, especially for high-capacity batteries. With BaaS, you spread out this cost over time based on your usage, making the EV more affordable in most cases. You benefit from reduced upfront costs, predictable montly expenses, flexibility, and no worry about battery degradation.
MG is offering lifetime battery warranty for Windsor EV buyers
MG is also offering several incentives to attract early buyers. The company is providing a 60% buyback value after three years of ownership, ensuring a good resale value for the Windsor EV. The battery also comes with a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind to buyers. Additionally, MG is offering free public charging for the first year at its e-hubs, making it more convenient and cost-effective to charge the Windsor EV. Bookings will officially begin on October 3.
Windsor EV: A closer look at the design
The Windsor EV, despite its MPV-like appearance, is designed to accommodate five passengers across two rows. The exterior design features flush door handles, full-width LED light bars at both ends, and a stepped front-end design with headlamps mounted on the bumper. The vehicle also boasts a large glasshouse that wraps seamlessly around the rear, extended quarter glass sections, and steeply raked front and rear windscreens.
Inside the Windsor EV: Features and amenities
The interior of the Windsor EV continues the theme of minimalism with a large 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and fully reclining front seat backrests. The vehicle also includes physical buttons for HVAC controls that sit just below the central screen. Other equipment highlights include a panoramic glass roof specific to India, wireless charging facility, a free-floating digital instrument cluster, and connected car features.
Windsor EV's innovative battery and range
The Windsor EV is powered by a 38kWh LFP battery with prismatic cells that has a claimed range of 331km. The front axle mounted motor produces 136hp and 200Nm of torque. The battery can be charged from 0-80kW in 55 minutes with a maximum fast charging capability of 45kW. For passenger safety, the vehicle is equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, and some ADAS features as well.
