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MG Comet EV: An Affordable Electric Car Launched in India

27 April 2023 by Drive Electric Team

MG Motor, a British automotive brand, has launched its latest electric car, the MG Comet EV, in India. This new electric vehicle is one of the most affordable electric cars in the Indian market, and it is expected to be a game-changer for the automotive industry in India.

MG Comet EV is designed keeping in mind the city requirements of modern India and making inter-city rides smooth. As per the company it is affordable, compact, hi-tech, and smart.

In this article, we will discuss the features and specifications of the MG Comet EV, its impact on the Indian market, its potential for success, and whether it is an ideal electric car for you.

Overview of the MG Comet EV

The MG Comet EV is a compact electric car that is designed to be eco-friendly, affordable, and practical. The car has a sleek and modern design, with a spacious interior that can accommodate up to four passengers comfortably. The car is powered by a 17.3 kWh Lithium-Ion battery pack that provides a range of up to 230 kilometers on a single charge.

It rides on smaller 12-inch wheels. It comes in Black, Silver, and White solid colors or with dual-tone green with black or white and black. The company also offers 4 styling packs and a range of sticker & graphics combos for personalization.

Thanks to its compact design it has a turning radius of 4.2M. It has smart features and can be controlled with 100+ voice commands via its mobile app. You can share the digital key with your partner allowing you to lock/unlock, On/Off its engine, control the lights, etc.

Features

Design and Exterior

The MG Comet EV has a futuristic and sleek design that is sure to turn heads. It boasts two doors and its 3 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. The car features a sloping roofline, a steep front, and LED headlights. The illuminated logo at the front & extended horizon light from the front to the back of the vehicle surely turns eyeballs. The car’s body is made of lightweight materials, which helps to improve its performance and efficiency.

Interior

The interior of the MG Comet EV is spacious and comfortable it has Space grey interiors, with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The car features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The car also has a digital instrument cluster and a multifunctional steering wheel.

Performance and Range

The MG Comet EV is powered by a 17.3 kWh battery pack, which provides a range of up to 230 kilometers on a single charge. Charging on 3.3kW AC from 0-100% takes 7 hours and 10-80% can be charged in 5 hours. The car has a top speed of 80-85 km/h. The car also features regenerative braking, which helps to extend its range by recharging the battery while the car is braking.

Safety and Security

The MG Comet EV is equipped with a range of safety and security features, including ABS, EBD, dual airbags, and a rearview camera. The car also has a range of sensors and cameras that provide 360-degree visibility, making it easier for the driver to navigate in tight spaces.

Impact on the Indian Market

The launch of the MG Comet EV is expected to have a significant impact on the Indian automotive market. India is one of the largest automobile markets in the world, with a rapidly growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles. The MG Comet EV is one of the most affordable electric cars in India, with a price tag of around Rs. 7.9 lakhs [ex-showroom India]. This makes it an attractive option for customers who are looking for an eco-friendly car that is also affordable.

The MG Comet EV is also expected to contribute to the Indian government’s goal of reducing the country’s carbon footprint. The Indian government has set a target of achieving 30% electric vehicle adoption by 2030, and the launch of the MG Comet EV is a step in the right direction.

Potential for Success

The MG Comet EV has a lot of potential for success in the Indian market. India’s urban infrastructure is jam-packed during peak hours and has smaller roads, so an EV of this kind is the perfect mobility tool one can have. The car’s affordable price tag, combined with its eco-friendly features and modern design, makes it a very attractive option for customers.

The car also has a range of advanced features and specifications that make it a competitive option in the electric car segment. The success of the MG Comet EV will also depend on the availability of charging infrastructure in India. While the Indian government has set a target of installing 2.5 million charging stations by 2030, there is still a long way

While the Indian government has set a target of installing 2.5 million charging stations by 2030, there is still a long way to go before the charging infrastructure is adequate for the growing number of electric cars on the road. However, MG Motor has already taken steps to address this issue by partnering with various companies to install charging stations across India.

Another factor that will contribute to the success of the MG Comet EV is the company’s after-sales service. MG Motor is known for its excellent customer service, and the company has already announced that it will offer a range of after-sales services, including home charging facilities, mobile charging units, and 24/7 roadside assistance.

Specifications

Technical

Overall Length (mm)	2974
Width excluding mirrors (mm)	1505
Height (mm)	1640
Wheel Base (mm)	2010
Turning Circle Radius (m)	4.2

Electric Motor

Electric Motor Type	Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Max. Power (PS)	42
Max. Torque (Nm)	110

Battery

Battery Capacity (kWh)	17.3
Charger Connection Type	Type 2
Estimated 3.3kW Charge Time (0-100%)**	7 hours
Estimated 3.3kW Charge Time (10-80%)**	5 hours
Range in Single Charge (km)*	230
Transmission	Automatic

Tyre

Tyre & Wheel	145/70R12
Front	Disc
Rear	Drum

Brakes

Front	McPherson Strut
Rear	Multi-Link Coil Suspension

Interesting Facts about MG Comet EV

Its 17.3kWH battery is packaged in India by Tata Autocomp
Its Kerb Weight is around 817 KG
There is no start button, a long pressing of the accelerator turns ON the vehicle
Its top speed is approx 80 KMPH

Conclusion

In conclusion, the MG Comet EV is a promising addition to the Indian electric car market. Its eco-friendly features, affordable price, and practical design make it an attractive option for customers looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.

With a range of up to 230 kilometers on a single charge, the car is perfect for daily commutes and short trips around the city. Additionally, its compact design and smart features, including the ability to control the car with 100+ voice commands via its mobile app, make it a convenient and easy-to-use vehicle.

Overall, the MG Comet EV is a step forward in the transition to a greener future, and we can expect to see more electric vehicles like it entering the market in the coming years.

FAQs

What is the price of the MG Comet EV in India?

The MG Comet EV is priced at around Rs. 7.9 lakhs [ex-showroom] in India.

What is the range of the MG Comet EV?

The MG Comet EV has a range of up to 230 kilometers on a single charge.

Does the MG Comet EV have fast-charging capability?

No. MG Comet EV charges 0-100% in 7 hours and 10-80% can be charged in 5 hours on 3.3kW AC power input.

What safety features does the MG Comet EV have?

The MG Comet EV is equipped with ABS, EBD, dual airbags, and a rearview camera, among other safety features.

What after-sales services will MG Motor offer for the MG Comet EV?

MG Motor will offer a range of after-sales services, including home charging facilities, mobile charging units, and 24/7 roadside assistance.

Do Electric Cars Have Drive Shafts? Explained in Simple Terms

13 April 2023 by Drive Electric Team

Have you ever considered whether or not electric vehicles have drive shafts? This article answers this question and delves deeper into the workings of electric vehicles.

Electric vehicles have grown in popularity recently due to their efficiency and environmental friendliness. Many people, however, still question how they work and the components of an electric vehicle. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether electric cars have drive shafts.

In this article, we will answer this question in layman’s terms and look at the components of an electric car’s drivetrain. We will also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of electric vehicles versus traditional fuel-powered vehicles.

What is a Drive Shaft?

Before we get into whether or not electric cars have drive shafts, let’s define what a drive shaft is. A drive shaft is a mechanical component that transfers engine torque to the wheels. It is made up of a hollow metal tube with universal joints on both ends that allow power to be transferred from the engine to the wheels.

The drive shaft connects the transmission to the rear differential and then to the rear wheels in traditional fuel-powered cars. This allows the engine’s power to be transferred to the wheels, propelling the car forward.

Do Electric Cars Have Drive Shafts?

Well, the answer is Yes and No, respectively. Some electric vehicles are equipped with drive shafts, while others are not. This is because electric vehicles use a different drivetrain system than traditional gas-powered vehicles.

The electric motor is located directly on the axle in electric vehicles, eliminating the need for a drive shaft to transmit power to the wheels. This design offers several benefits, including increased efficiency and easier maintenance.

Some electric vehicles, particularly those with rear-wheel drive, use a drive shaft to connect the electric motor to the rear differential and wheels. This is due to the fact that the electric motor may be located in the front of the vehicle and a drive shaft is required to transmit power to the rear wheels.

How Does an Electric Car’s Drivetrain Work?

To understand how an electric car’s drivetrain works, we need to look at the various components that make up the system. These components include the electric motor, battery pack, power electronics, and transmission.

Electric Motor: The electric motor is the heart of an electric vehicle’s drivetrain. To turn the wheels, it converts electrical energy from the battery pack into mechanical energy. Electric motors in electric vehicles are classified into two types: AC motors and DC motors.

Battery Pack: The battery pack serves as the electric motor’s power source. It stores electrical energy and provides power to the motor. To provide the required voltage and capacity, the battery pack is typically made up of many individual cells connected in series or parallel.

Power Electronics: Power electronics regulate the flow of electrical energy between the battery pack and the electric motor. They convert the DC power from the battery pack into AC power that the motor can use. They also control the motor’s speed and torque.

Transmission: A transmission is used in some electric vehicles to provide multiple gear ratios to the wheels. This is common in electric vehicles with rear-wheel drive, which uses a drive shaft to connect the electric motor to the rear wheels. However, many front-wheel-drive electric vehicles lack a transmission in favor of a single-speed gearbox.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Cars without Drive Shafts

As previously stated, some electric vehicles do not have drive shafts due to their unique drivetrain system. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of electric vehicles without drive shafts.

Advantages:

Improved Efficiency: Electric cars without drive shafts can achieve higher efficiency by eliminating the need for a drive shaft. This is because there is no power loss when power is transferred from the engine to the wheels.

Low Maintenance: Maintenance is simplified because there are fewer mechanical components to maintain in the absence of a drive shaft. This can also result in lower long-term maintenance costs.

Increased Interior Space: Without a drive shaft, electric vehicles have more space for other components or increased passenger and cargo space.

Improved Handling: Because electric cars do not have a drive shaft, they have a lower center of gravity, which improves their handling and stability on the road.

Disadvantages:

Limited Range: Due to their reliance on battery power, electric cars without drive shafts may have a limited range. This disadvantage, however, is not directly related to the lack of a drive shaft.

Limited Towing Capacity: Because electric cars lack a drive shaft, they may have a lower towing capacity than traditional petrol/diesel powered vehicles.

Cost: Due to the complexity of their drivetrain system, electric cars without drive shafts may be more expensive than traditional fuel powered cars.

Availability: Due to their unique drivetrain system, electric cars without drive shafts may be less widely available than traditional gas-powered cars.

FAQs

Do electric vehicles have axles?

Axles are present in electric vehicles. Axles are critical components of a vehicle’s drivetrain system, transferring power from the motor to the wheels.

What vehicles have drive shafts?

Drive shafts are found in the majority of vehicles, including traditional fuel-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs. A drive shaft is a mechanical component that transmits engine power to the wheels.

Do all cars have drive shafts?

No, not all cars have drive shafts. Some cars, particularly those that are smaller and more compact, may employ a different drivetrain system that eliminates the need for a drive shaft.

Do hybrid cars have a drive shaft?

Yes, hybrid vehicles do have a drive shaft. Hybrid vehicles are powered by a combination of an electric motor and a traditional petrol/diesel engine. A drive shaft connects the electric motor to the drive wheels and is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the wheels.

Final Thoughts

Electric cars without drive shafts are becoming more common as electric vehicles gain popularity. While the absence of a drive shaft has several advantages, there are some disadvantages to consider. Individual tastes and requirements will ultimately determine whether an electric car with or without a drive shaft is purchased. Understanding the components and workings of electric vehicles, on the other hand, can help you make an informed decision if you’re thinking about buying one.

Is India Ready for Electric Vehicles?

7 April 20235 April 2023 by Drive Electric Team

Discover India’s readiness for electric vehicles. Explore government initiatives, industry growth, and the potential of EVs to transform mobility.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are the future of transportation and an emerging solution to reducing the harmful effects of fossil fuels on our environment. As one of the largest automobile markets in the world, India has taken steps toward embracing this positive change. However, the question remains: “How ready is India for Electric Vehicles?”

Keeping in mind the Indian population and its demographic the transition towards using Electric Vehicles is a challenge. Well, it is true that Electric Vehicles are too expensive for the average Indian however mass production and healthy competition will cut down the costs in the coming days.

In this article, we delve into the current state of EVs in India and the challenges that must be addressed to accelerate India’s transition toward a greener tomorrow. Join us as we explore the potential of EVs in India and the ways in which we can work towards a cleaner, sustainable future.

Introduction to EVs in India

Electric vehicles in India have been around for a few years now. The Government of India has been pushing for the adoption of EVs, and the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan was launched in 2013 to support the electric vehicle industry. However, the adoption rate of EVs in India has been slow.

Some reports speculate that India is set to miss its target of achieving 30% electric vehicle penetration by 2030. However, keeping in mind the volatility of the Indian market it is really hard to predict the EV of the future given that the Indian public is slowly accepting EVs and looking at them as an alternative to gasoline-based vehicles.

Current State of EVs in India

The Indian EV Market

The Indian EV market is still in its infancy. According to a report, the total EV market in India stood at 3,600 units in 2016. This number increased to 56,000 units in 2018, but it is still a small fraction of the total automobile market in India.

In the current times, electric vehicle (EV) sales in India have reached an impressive 1.16 million units in the fiscal year 2023, with 100,000 units sold for six consecutive months. The EV industry has seen a remarkable 154% year-on-year growth, driven by increasing demand.

Of the total sales, over 716,000 two-wheelers and 397,429 three-wheelers were sold, indicating a surge in demand for electric bikes and rickshaws. The demand for electric cars and buses has also seen a notable rise, highlighting the growing awareness and acceptance of EVs among the Indian population.

Infrastructure and Charging Stations

One of the biggest challenges to the adoption of EVs in India is the lack of charging infrastructure. There are only a few charging stations available in the country, and most of them are located in major cities. This lack of infrastructure makes it challenging for EV owners to travel long distances.

To address this, the Indian government has set an ambitious target of installing 400,000 charging stations across the country by 2026. Currently, several private companies have already set up charging stations in major cities, while state-run companies are also stepping up their efforts.

Moreover, several startups have also entered the market with innovative charging solutions to make EV charging more accessible and convenient for users. While the infrastructure is still in the early stages of development, the progress made so far is promising and lays the foundation for a cleaner, greener future of mobility in India.

Cost of EVs in India

Another challenge for the adoption of EVs in India is the high cost of EVs. Electric vehicles are significantly more expensive than their gasoline counterparts. For instance, the Mahindra e-Verito, an electric sedan, costs around INR 10-12 lakhs, while the older gasoline variant of similar make costs around INR 8 lakhs.

The cost of electric vehicles (EVs) in India has been a major factor hindering their widespread adoption. However, with advancements in technology and increasing government incentives and subsidies, the prices of EVs in India have been gradually declining.

The introduction of more affordable EV models, such as electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, has also contributed to making EVs more accessible to the Indian population. With the growing demand for EVs and the continued efforts of the Indian government to promote electric mobility, it is expected that the cost of EVs in India will continue to decrease in the coming years.

Battery Technology

The range of EVs is a crucial factor for consumers. In India, most EVs have a range of around 100-150 km on a single charge, which is not suitable for long-distance travel. Battery technology is evolving, and the cost of batteries is reducing. However, it is still a significant challenge for EV manufacturers to produce batteries that offer a high range at an affordable cost.

Initiatives to Promote EVs in India

FAME India Scheme

The Government of India has launched the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles) India scheme to promote the adoption of EVs. Under this scheme, incentives are provided to EV manufacturers and buyers to increase the demand for EVs in India. The scheme also aims to establish charging infrastructure and provide research and development support to EV manufacturers.

Many Indian states have also launched their initiatives to promote the adoption of EVs. For instance, Delhi has launched the Delhi EV Policy, which aims to ensure that 25% of all new vehicles registered in Delhi are electric by 2024. Similarly, Andhra Pradesh has launched the Electric Mobility Policy, which aims to make the state a hub for EV manufacturing.

Other Notable Initiatives on Electric Vehicles

Reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on EVs from 12% to 5% to make them more affordable.
Income tax benefits for buyers of EVs to encourage their adoption.
Exemption of road tax and registration fees for EVs.
Subsidies for EV charging infrastructure installation.
Incentives for the production of EVs and EV components under the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan.
A mandate for all government departments and public sector enterprises to switch to electric vehicles by 2030.
Development of green corridors to promote the use of EVs for long-distance travel.
Setting up EV charging stations at various locations across the country, including petrol pumps, shopping malls, etc.

So, Is India Ready for Electric Vehicles?

This can be answered with a resounding “yes”. With the Indian government’s ambitious plans to promote electric mobility and the growing awareness and acceptance of EVs among the Indian population, the transition towards a greener future is well underway.

While there are challenges that need to be addressed, such as the lack of charging infrastructure and high initial costs, these can be overcome with the right policies and incentives in place. The potential of EVs in India is immense, and their adoption will not only help in reducing air pollution and promoting sustainable mobility but also create job opportunities and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

As the EV industry continues to evolve and innovate, we can look forward to a future where clean and green mobility is the norm, and India leads the way toward a more sustainable tomorrow.