MG Windsor EV: In a market where electric vehicles are steadily gaining ground, the MG Windsor EV has emerged as a game-changer in India’s automobile industry.
Combining innovative design, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, JSW MG Motor India has created a vehicle that’s redefining what consumers can expect from an electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV).
MG Windsor EV Introducing the MG Windsor EV
The MG Windsor EV represents a significant milestone as India’s first purpose-built electric car designed specifically for the budget family segment.
Unlike many competitors that are modified versions of existing combustion engine vehicles, the Windsor was conceptualized from the ground up as an electric vehicle.
This fundamental difference is evident in its unique aerodynamic design, spacious interior, and thoughtful features tailored for the electric driving experience.
Launched by JSW MG Motor India in September 2024, the Windsor EV has quickly established itself as a bestseller in the electric vehicle segment. Its success is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape and growing consumer interest in sustainable transportation options.
Design Philosophy: Form Meets Function
The Windsor EV boasts a distinctive design that balances aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Its aerodynamic shape, often described as egg-like when viewed from the side, contributes to its impressive efficiency with a coefficient of drag of just 0.27. This streamlined profile isn’t merely for visual appeal—it directly enhances the vehicle’s range and performance.
Exterior highlights include:
Split LED headlamp design with projector headlights
Illuminated MG logo at the front
LED light bars at both front and rear
Stylish 18-inch alloy wheels
L-shaped LED taillights
Flush-fitting door handles
Integrated rear spoiler
Panoramic “Infinity View” glass roof
The Windsor’s design language may diverge from traditional SUV aesthetics, but this departure serves a purpose. Without the need to accommodate a combustion engine, the designers were free to prioritize interior space and aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in a vehicle that offers more room than some physically larger competitors.
Interior Experience: Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Windsor EV, and the benefits of its purpose-built electric architecture become immediately apparent. Despite having exterior dimensions similar to a Hyundai Creta, the interior space rivals that of the larger Tata Harrier. This spatial efficiency is one of the Windsor’s most compelling attributes.
The cabin features:
Innovative “Aero Lounge” seats in the second row with 135° recline capability
Ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats
Panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light
Impressive 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Fully digital instrument cluster
Automatic climate control with rear AC vents
Two-spoke multifunction steering wheel
Ambient lighting creating a premium atmosphere
360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility
The Windsor’s approach to interior design emphasizes both comfort and practicality. The Aero Lounge seats, in particular, transform the rear passenger experience, offering unprecedented comfort for a vehicle in this segment. Coupled with thoughtful amenities and a high-quality fit and finish, the cabin delivers a premium feel that belies the Windsor’s competitive price point.
Performance and Range: Real-World Capabilities
The standard MG Windsor EV comes equipped with a 38kWh Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor. This powertrain delivers 134bhp (136hp) and 200Nm of torque, offering spirited performance for urban and highway driving.
The Windsor provides four distinct driving modes:
Eco+: Maximizes efficiency but limits top speed to 80kph
Eco: Balances efficiency and performance
Normal: Offers a well-rounded driving experience
Sport: Prioritizes performance for more dynamic driving
In terms of range, the standard Windsor EV claims an MIDC-certified distance of 331-332km on a full charge. Real-world testing has demonstrated impressive efficiency, particularly in Eco+ mode for city driving and Eco mode for highway journeys.
Factors contributing to this efficiency include the aerodynamic design, low rolling resistance tires, and optimized energy management systems.
For those seeking extended range, MG has introduced the Windsor EV Pro, featuring a larger 52.9kWh battery pack that boosts the claimed range to an impressive 449km on a single charge.
This variant maintains the same electric motor specifications while addressing range anxiety concerns for those who regularly undertake longer journeys.
Charging Infrastructure and Options
The Windsor EV offers versatile charging capabilities to suit various scenarios:
DC Fast Charging: Supports up to 45kW, allowing the 38kWh battery to charge from 0-80% in approximately 55 minutes
AC Charging: With an 11kW charger, the battery can go from 25-80% in around 3.5 hours
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) technology in the Pro variant, enabling the Windsor to power external appliances or even charge another electric vehicle
This range of charging options provides flexibility for owners, whether they’re topping up at home overnight or utilizing fast charging stations during longer trips. The inclusion of V2L and V2V functionality in the Pro variant adds utility that extends beyond mere transportation.
Advanced Technology and Safety Features
Technology integration is a cornerstone of the Windsor EV experience, with a comprehensive suite of features that enhance both convenience and safety:
Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the Pro variant
Six airbags providing comprehensive cabin protection
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Stability Control
Hill Start Assist
360-degree camera system
Self-updating app store with OTT and music applications
Connected car technology with remote monitoring capabilities
The Windsor’s tech package compares favorably with competitors, particularly in the Pro variant where the Level 2 ADAS suite offers enhanced safety features. This focus on technology aligns with MG’s broader brand positioning as a tech-forward automaker.
Innovative Pricing and Ownership Models
Perhaps one of the most revolutionary aspects of the MG Windsor EV is its approach to pricing and ownership. The vehicle introduced a groundbreaking “Battery as a Service” (BaaS) program that significantly reduces the initial purchase cost.
Under this model, customers can acquire the Windsor at a lower upfront price (excluding the battery cost) while paying for battery usage separately.
This structure addresses one of the primary barriers to EV adoption—high initial cost—while also alleviating concerns about battery degradation and replacement.
The standard Windsor EV was launched at a starting price of ₹9.99 lakh (excluding battery) with a battery rental available at ₹3.5/km. For those preferring traditional ownership, the vehicle is also available with the battery included, priced between ₹12-15 lakh for standard variants.
The recently launched Windsor EV Pro variant starts at ₹17.49 lakh (with battery included) or ₹12.49 lakh under the BaaS model. The Pro variant’s introductory pricing was limited to the first 8,000 bookings, which were secured within 24 hours of launch—a testament to the model’s strong market appeal.
Additionally, MG has introduced a “360 Scheme” allowing owners to sell the car back to the company after three years for 60% of its showroom value, including the battery. This innovative approach to ownership creates a clearly defined exit path for buyers while building confidence in the vehicle’s residual value.
Market Position and Competition
The MG Windsor EV enters a competitive landscape that includes established models like the Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and other compact electric SUVs.
However, its purpose-built electric architecture, spacious interior, and innovative pricing model create a distinctive value proposition that has resonated strongly with consumers.
The introduction of the Pro variant with enhanced range and features further strengthens the Windsor’s competitive position, particularly against rivals like the long-range Nexon EV.
The Windsor has consistently sold over 3,000 units monthly, making it the bestselling electric vehicle in India—an impressive achievement for a relatively new entrant.
Available in a range of colors including Pearl White, Starburst Black, Turquoise Green, and the Pro-exclusive Celadon Blue, Glaze Red, and Aurora Silver, the Windsor offers visual variety to match its technical capabilities.
The Windsor Experience: Beyond Specifications
Beyond the specifications and features, the Windsor EV delivers a cohesive and satisfying ownership experience. Owners consistently praise its comfortable and spacious cabin, abundance of features, quality fit and finish, and smooth driving characteristics.
The suspension setup receives particular commendation for handling various road conditions well, from speed bumps to highways, although some users note that larger potholes can still be felt.
The Windsor’s performance in city environments is exemplary, with responsive acceleration and nimble handling making it well-suited to urban mobility. Highway performance is equally competent, with sufficient power for overtaking and a stable ride at cruising speeds.
For daily use, the standard Windsor’s range is adequate for most urban commuting patterns, while the Pro variant’s extended range opens up more possibilities for intercity travel.
The comprehensive warranty package, which includes lifetime battery warranty for the first registered private owner, provides peace of mind that enhances the ownership proposition.
Looking Forward: The Windsor’s Impact on India’s EV Landscape
The MG Windsor EV represents more than just another entry in the electric vehicle market—it signals a shift in how manufacturers approach EV design and pricing in India.
Its purpose-built architecture demonstrates the advantages of designing specifically for electric propulsion rather than adapting existing combustion engine platforms.
The innovative Battery as a Service model could prove influential in addressing cost barriers to EV adoption, potentially inspiring similar approaches from other manufacturers.
By separating vehicle and battery ownership, MG has created a more accessible entry point that could accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
The Windsor’s success—evidenced by its strong sales figures and rapid booking of the Pro variant—indicates that the market is receptive to innovative approaches when they deliver tangible benefits.
As India continues its journey toward electrification, the Windsor EV stands as a milestone that could influence the direction of future developments.
MG Windsor EV Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Electric Mobility
The MG Windsor EV has established itself as a transformative force in India’s electric vehicle landscape. By combining thoughtful design, practical technology, and innovative ownership models, it addresses many of the traditional pain points associated with EV adoption.
For families considering the transition to electric mobility, the Windsor offers a compelling package that doesn’t demand significant compromises.
Its spacious interior, comprehensive feature set, and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for those who might previously have hesitated to make the electric switch.
As the automotive industry continues its electric evolution, the Windsor EV provides a glimpse of what’s possible when manufacturers approach electrification as an opportunity for reinvention rather than mere adaptation.
In doing so, MG has not only created a successful product but potentially helped reshape expectations for what an affordable electric vehicle can and should deliver.
The road to widespread electric vehicle adoption in India still faces challenges, but innovations like the Windsor EV suggest that creative solutions are emerging to address these obstacles.
As battery technology continues to advance and charging infrastructure expands, vehicles like the Windsor will play a crucial role in demonstrating the everyday practicality and benefits of electric mobility for the average Indian consumer.