
JSW Group expands into India’s electric vehicle sector through a strategic partnership with Chinese automotive giant Chery Automobile.
The joint venture plans to debut its initial lineup of new energy electric SUVs, starting with the off-road-styled JSW Chery iCar V23 and the mid-size JSW Jaecoo J5 EV, targeting a launch on November 15, 2026. This aggressive commercial entry introduces a non-traditional industrial conglomerate directly into competition with domestic automotive leaders Tata Motors and Mahindra.
According to listing updates on CarDekho, the iCar V23 is positioned with an estimated price range between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 25 lakh. The Jaecoo J5 EV enters the market with an estimated starting price of Rs 20 lakh. Under the joint venture structure, Chery delivers vehicle architecture, software stack integration, and battery technology engineering, while JSW manages localized assembly, branding, and distribution networks across India.
Vehicle Specifications and Performance Parameters
The JSW Chery iCar V23 features a boxy retro design measuring 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height, built on a 2,735 mm wheelbase. Globally, the model offers two distinct powertrain configurations:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Powered by a 59.93 kWh battery pack producing 136 hp and 180 Nm of torque, delivering a claimed CLTC range of up to 401 km.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Equipped with an 81.76 kWh battery pack generating 211 hp and 292 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, with a maximum CLTC range of 510 km.
The Jaecoo J5 EV incorporates a 58.9 kWh battery pack coupled with an electric motor that generates 211 bhp and 288 Nm of torque, offering a certified range between 400 km and 460 km per charge. Both vehicles support DC fast charging capabilities capable of replenishing battery levels from 30 percent to 80 percent in under 30 minutes.
Cabin Technology and Safety Features
Inside the cabin, the iCar V23 features a 15.4-inch 2.5K high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset. The dashboard layout removes standard physical controls, delegating climate adjustment and vehicle settings to the central console and steering wheel controls. Cabin amenities include leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, and an optional panoramic glass roof.
The Jaecoo J5 EV includes a vertically oriented central touchscreen, a fully digital instrument cluster, a 540-degree panoramic camera view, ventilated front seats, and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard safety equipment across both vehicle lineups includes multiple airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), hill-descent assist, and tire pressure monitoring systems.
Supply Chain Localization and Market Dynamics
JSW aims to establish localized component sourcing and battery pack assembly in India to minimize import tariffs on completely built units. By managing production costs through domestic supply chains, the joint venture seeks to position its electric SUV models competitively against rivals like the Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, and MG ZS EV.
The entry of steel and energy conglomerates into the personal mobility sector reflects a broader operational shift in India’s automotive ecosystem. JSW’s strategy relies on integrating Chery’s global vehicle platforms with regional industrial infrastructure to scale manufacturing capabilities and charging network partnerships across key urban corridors.










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