JSW’s Chery iCaur V23-Based SUV Spotted Testing in India: Everything We Know So Far

India’s electric vehicle market is set to welcome a new entrant as a camouflaged test mule of a SUV based on the Chery iCaur V23 has been spotted undergoing road tests in the country. The model is expected to be introduced by JSW Motors, marking another step in the company’s ambitious plan to build a strong presence in India’s rapidly growing EV segment. The sighting suggests that development for the India-spec version is progressing steadily, with the vehicle likely to receive modifications tailored to local conditions and consumer preferences.

The SUV seen in the spy shots appears heavily camouflaged, but key design elements are still visible. The vehicle carries a bold and upright stance with a boxy silhouette, flared wheel arches and rugged proportions that give it a strong road presence. A distinctive kink in the rear window line and a high ground clearance further enhance its SUV character. The styling hints at influences from popular off-roaders, and some design cues resemble vehicles such as the Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class and the upcoming Mahindra Vision S, both known for their muscular and rugged design language.

Internationally, the iCaur V23 is a compact electric SUV built by Chery under its iCar sub-brand. The global model measures about 4.2 metres in length with a wheelbase of roughly 2.73 metres, positioning it in the compact SUV category while still offering generous interior space. Its upright design, short overhangs and squared wheel arches give it a lifestyle-oriented off-road appearance that appeals to buyers looking for a rugged electric vehicle.

In terms of powertrain, the international version of the iCaur V23 offers multiple battery and drivetrain options. A single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup produces around 136 hp and 180 Nm of torque with a battery pack of approximately 59.93 kWh. Meanwhile, a more powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive version delivers up to 211 hp and 292 Nm of torque and is paired with a larger 81.76 kWh battery pack. Depending on the configuration, the SUV offers a claimed driving range of around 401 km to 510 km on the CLTC cycle and supports DC fast-charging speeds above 85 kW.

Although official specifications for the India-bound version have not yet been confirmed, reports suggest that JSW Motors may adapt the platform to suit Indian road conditions and market expectations. The company is expected to assemble the vehicle locally at its facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, which could help keep prices competitive and support the government’s push for domestic EV manufacturing.

The upcoming SUV will likely enter a highly competitive electric SUV segment in India. Potential rivals include the Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE 6, VinFast VF6, MG ZS EV, Maruti e‑Vitara, Tata Curvv EV, and the upcoming Tata Sierra EV. With strong competition in the electric SUV space, JSW’s strategy of offering rugged design, modern technology and competitive pricing could help the model stand out.

The testing phase indicates that the project is still in its early stages, and a commercial launch may still be a few years away. Some industry reports suggest that the SUV could arrive in India around 2028, giving the company enough time to refine the product and build its EV ecosystem.

Overall, the spy sighting of the Chery iCaur V23-based SUV marks an important step in JSW Motors’ entry into the Indian passenger vehicle market. If launched successfully, the model could add a rugged and lifestyle-focused option to India’s electric SUV lineup while strengthening competition in the rapidly evolving EV sector.