The Indian electric vehicle landscape is rapidly evolving, but there has long been a missing link, a true, family-oriented, three-row electric MPV that’s affordable, practical, and feature-rich. Kia has filled that gap with the Carens Clavis EV, a 7-seater electric MPV that blends familiar Carens practicality with next-generation EV technology.
Launched in 2025, this vehicle is set to redefine how Indian families look at electric mobility, delivering performance, comfort, and value that rivals both ICE and EV options across the ₹18–25 lakh bracket.
Let’s explore every detail, design, feature, battery, performance, range, safety, and pricing.
Why the Carens Clavis EV Matters
For years, families wanting a 7-seater had only petrol, diesel, or CNG choices. The Carens Clavis EV changes that completely.
- India’s first mass-market 7-seater EV, finally, a large EV at an accessible price point.
- Locally produced in Andhra Pradesh, it reduces costs and ensures better after-sales service.
- Purpose-built for Indian conditions, with ground clearance, suspension tuning, and battery protection designed for diverse road conditions.
- Cleaner, quieter, cheaper to run, a practical switch for families and fleet owners alike.
This isn’t just another EV, it’s the car that could make electric MPVs mainstream.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Exterior Design & Styling
At first glance, the Carens Clavis EV retains the familiar Carens silhouette, but closer inspection reveals plenty of new-age EV details.
- Closed front fascia instead of a traditional grille improves aerodynamics.
- Front-fender charging port for easier plug-in in tight parking spaces.
- Connected LED DRLs and taillights give it a futuristic stance.
- Flush aero wheels and EV-specific bumpers reduce drag.
- Dual-tone color schemes and subtle blue accents highlight its electric identity.
The design language stays true to Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy, a balance of practicality and bold modernity.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Interior & Cabin Comfort
Inside, the Clavis EV feels like a tech lounge on wheels, spacious, well-built, and thoughtfully loaded.
Seating & Space
- 7-seater (2+3+2) configuration with adjustable second row.
- Flat floor enhances legroom and comfort for middle passengers.
- The third row remains best for kids or short trips, but folds flat for a huge boot.
- Generous cabin storage: door bins, cupholders, hidden trays, and wireless charging docks.
Dashboard & Features
- Twin 10.25-inch screens (infotainment + digital cluster).
- Kia Connect app with remote climate control, OTA updates, and trip data.
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, with natural voice commands.
- Touch-sensitive AC controls add to the futuristic feel.
Comfort & Convenience
- Ventilated front seats and ambient lighting (64 colors).
- The panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space.
- Roof-mounted vents for the second and third rows.
- Premium soft-touch materials and eco-friendly upholstery options.
Pro Tip: The Clavis EV’s cabin quality feels a notch above typical mass-market MPVs, quiet, comfortable, and tech-savvy.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Battery, Performance & Charging
Two battery configurations are available, each designed to suit different users.
| Battery Pack | Power | Torque | Claimed Range (ARAI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42 kWh | 135 PS | 255 Nm | 404 km |
| 51.4 kWh (Extended Range) | 171 PS | 255 Nm | 490 km |
Real-World Range
- Expect 320–380 km from the 42 kWh variant.
- Around 400–430 km from the 51.4 kWh version under mixed conditions.
Charging Times
- 11 kW AC Wallbox: ~4 hours for 0–100% (three-phase).
- 100 kW DC Fast Charger: 10–80% in ~45 minutes.
- Portable charger included for emergencies.
Driving Impressions
- Instant torque for quick city sprints.
- Smooth, quiet power delivery, a signature EV trait.
- Multi-level regenerative braking allows one-pedal driving.
- 0–100 km/h in just under 8 seconds (ER variant).
- Drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Safety & ADAS Features
Kia has equipped the Carens Clavis EV with a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite, bringing big-car safety tech into the mid-EV segment.
Active Safety
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Keep & Lane Departure Assist
- Forward Collision Avoidance (with pedestrian/cyclist detection)
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Safe Exit Warning
Passive Safety
- 6 airbags standard across variants
- 360° Surround View Camera
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- All-wheel disc brakes
- High-tensile steel structure for improved crash protection
Tip: Few cars in this price range offer such a complete ADAS package, especially with 7-seat practicality.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Ownership Experience & Charging Network
Owning an EV in India is easier than ever, and Kia has been proactive with its ecosystem.
- Over 250 EV-ready service centers and 100+ fast-charging dealerships.
- 8-year / 1.6 lakh km battery warranty.
- Running cost approximately ₹1.5/km, compared to ₹6–8/km for petrol.
- Regenerative braking significantly extends brake life.
- Kia Connect app tracks battery health, charging schedule, and pre-conditioning.
Maintenance Tip: Schedule periodic software updates via OTA to enhance range accuracy and charging optimization.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Cabin Electronics & Infotainment
Kia has prioritized tech that simplifies life rather than just dazzles.
- 8-speaker Bose sound system tuned for balanced acoustics.
- Dual-zone climate control with auto rear vents.
- Pre-conditioning through the mobile app (cool cabin before entering).
- EV-specific graphics show energy flow, regen strength, and nearby chargers.
- OTA updates enhance UI, maps, and EV algorithms over time.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Things to Watch Out For
No vehicle is perfect, and while the Clavis EV excels, a few points deserve attention.
- The real-world range drops noticeably on highways with a full passenger load.
- DC chargers outside major cities are still limited.
- Slight body roll on fast corners due to weight.
- A price premium over the ICE Carens may deter purely budget-minded buyers.
Smart Tip: Use Eco Mode in urban commutes to stretch your range by 10–15%.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Latest Updates (2025)
- Kia added HTX E and HTX E (ER) trims for more flexibility.
- OTA update now refines range estimation and regen logic.
- Kia partners with leading charge networks (Tata Power, Zeon, Statiq).
- Finance options with low-interest EV-specific loans introduced.
This ongoing support proves Kia’s commitment to long-term EV ownership.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Competitor Comparison
| Model | Seating | Range (ARAI) | Price (₹ Lakh) | Highlights | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Carens Clavis EV | 7 | 404–490 km | 17.99–24.49 | Best value 7-seat EV, ADAS, connected tech | Charging infrastructure is still expanding |
| BYD eMax / e6 | 5–7 | 520–530 km | 28.8+ | Longest range, solid build | Expensive, fewer service points |
| Hyundai Creta EV | 5 | 390–510 km | 19.1+ | Stylish, feature-rich | Only 5 seats |
| Maruti Ertiga (CNG/Petrol) | 7 | — | 10.3+ | Budget-friendly, wide service | Not electric |
| Kia Carens (ICE) | 7 | — | 11.5–18.7 | Trusted package, cheaper upfront | High running cost |
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Price Table (Ex-Showroom, India)
| Variant | Battery | Range | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTK Plus | 42 kWh | ~404 km | 17,99,000 |
| HTX | 42 kWh | ~404 km | 20,49,000 |
| HTX E / ER | 51.4 kWh | ~490 km | 21,99,000+ |
| HTX Plus ER | 51.4 kWh | ~490 km | 24,49,000 |
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Who Should Buy It?
Ideal For:
- Families need a true 7-seater with low running costs.
- Urban/suburban users with access to home or office charging.
- Tech enthusiasts value ADAS, connected features, and quiet refinement.
Maybe Not For:
- Frequent intercity travelers on routes lacking fast chargers.
- Households without a secure parking/charging setup.
- Buyers are expecting luxury-level finishes at any cost.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Final Verdict
The Kia Carens Clavis EV is India’s most practical entry into the world of family-oriented electric vehicles. It offers the comfort and utility of an MPV, the smoothness of an EV, and the tech of a premium SUV, all at an attainable price.
Pros:
- True 7-seater practicality
- Long range and fast charging
- ADAS Level 2 features
- Low running and maintenance costs
Cons:
- Real-world range drops under heavy load
- The charging network is still developing
If you’ve been waiting for a versatile, family-friendly EV that doesn’t break the bank, the Carens Clavis EV is your answer.