MG Motor, which is taking aim at India's green mobility market with its upcoming electric SUV MG ZS EV, has said it is looking to go "beyond tokenism" with its foray into the segment.
"We are aiming to develop the entire ecosystem around electric cars in the country," MG Motor India President and Managing Director Rajeev Chaba told PTI here.
"We are tying up with partners for charging infrastructure, for battery lifecycle management, we are exploring a subscription model for buyers...We are going beyond tokenism," he asserted.
The MG ZS EV, to be unveiled next month, will go head to head with Hyundai Kona, launched in July this year as the country's first fully electric SUV.
Companies are dipping their toes into the nascent electric car market amid a concerted effort by the government to spur adoption of environment-friendly vehicles.
However, lack of charging infrastructure and premium pricing are proving to be among the major stumbling blocks.
"Look, we are aware EVs are not a mass segment in India as of now. Initially, we are looking at sales of 2,000-3,000 units per annum," he added.
The company will have to play a fine balancing act with MG ZS EV's pricing, which often proves to be the undoing of foreign multinationals looking to woo India's price-sensitive consumers.
"One thing the companies have to offer is a balance between the appropriate quality and appropriate price," the auto sector veteran said. "Indian consumers will not pay for over-engineered products."
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