JSW-Chery iCar V23 Spied Testing in India

The India-Spec Model is to be launched Under New JSW Brand

A camouflaged electric SUV that appears to be based on the Chery iCar V23 has been spotted testing in India, signalling progress in the upcoming JSW–Chery collaboration. The vehicle is expected to arrive under JSW's upcoming automotive brand, which will be positioned alongside MG in the company's broader portfolio.

The global model is sold as the iCar V23; however, the India-bound version is expected to be renamed and rebadged, in line with JSW's strategy of introducing Chery-derived vehicles tailored for the Indian market. This is coming up second in line with the rebadging of the Wuling Cloud into the MG Windsor EV, which has gained good momentum in the market, hence the business decision by the conglomerate.

Design and Specs

Globally, the iCar V23 is a compact electric SUV developed by Chery under its iCar sub-brand. The model debuted in China in 2024 and is positioned as a lifestyle-oriented EV with rugged styling and off-road-inspired design cues.

The spy shots show the SUV with its boxy silhouette, upright stance and short overhangs, giving it a mini off-roader aesthetic reminiscent of classic utility vehicles. Round headlamps, squared wheel arches and a high ground clearance contribute to its rugged look.

Globally, the V23 measures 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width and 1,845 mm in height, with a 2,730 mm wheelbase, placing it in the compact SUV category.

Powertrain and Battery Options

The global iCar V23 is offered with multiple battery and drivetrain configurations. Entry variants feature a single rear-mounted electric motor producing around 100 kW (136 PS) and 180 Nm of torque, paired with battery packs ranging from roughly 47 kWh to 59.9 kWh.

Higher variants get a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, delivering up to 214 PS and 292 Nm, while larger battery packs of around 81.7 kWh offer a maximum driving range of up to 501 km (CLTC).

Some versions also support DC fast charging up to around 85 kW, enabling a rapid top-up for longer journeys. Now we have to wait to get to know what the Indian version of the same will be equipped with.

Potential India Positioning

The V23 is expected to be positioned as a compact lifestyle EV when it arrives in India. Its rugged design and compact dimensions could see it targeting buyers looking for an electric alternative to lifestyle SUVs such as the upcoming electric off-roaders in the Indian market.

In terms of price positioning, industry estimates suggest a potential range of ?16–20 lakh, depending on localisation and variant strategy.

Local Manufacturing Plans

Unlike many early EV imports, the India-spec version is expected to be locally manufactured. Production is likely to take place at JSW's upcoming New Energy Vehicle facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra, which is currently under development.

The facility is part of JSW's plan to establish itself as a new passenger vehicle manufacturer in India, with production expected to begin in the second half of 2026. JSW is expected to localise key components over time, although early units could use imported kits or parts sourced from China before localisation levels increase.

JSW's Broader EV Push

The V23-based SUV will likely be among the first products under JSW's new automotive brand, which will operate alongside MG Motor India within the group's expanding mobility ecosystem. With India's EV market gaining momentum, the collaboration with Chery allows JSW to leverage global EV platforms and technology, while introducing products tailored to Indian conditions and consumer preferences.

More details on the India-specific branding, specifications and launch timeline are expected to emerge as testing progresses.