The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has skyrocketed, and no one is immune to this green revolution. It also generated excitement among India’s elite, with some celebrities choosing these sustainable vehicles. This article investigates the most recent updates on Indian celebrity EV ownership and how this trend is affecting the wider EV landscape in India.
Celebrity Acceptance for Electric Vehicles in India!
Celebrities frequently set trends, and their impact extends to the automobile industry as well. An increasing number of Indian celebrities have expressed interest in electric vehicles, boosting their popularity among followers and the general population.
Indian automakers like Mahindra & Tata have produced a wide range of electric vehicle models. Celebrities’ growing interest in electric vehicles is also driving this trend.
Celebrities Leading the Electric Car Movement in India
Let’s take a closer look at some of the Indian celebrities who have embraced the electric revolution:
I. Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his Kia EV6
Known for his diverse collection of vehicles, the former Indian cricket captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, recently added a Kia EV6 to his collection. This flagship electric vehicle from the Korean automaker Kia comes with a starting price of Rs. 60.95–65.95 lakh.
II. Prashanth Ruia's Tesla Model X
Prashant Ruia, who is the CEO of Essar Group, has bought the Tesla Model X 90D in Mumbai. The luxury electric SUV uses falcon wing doors for access to the second- and third-row seats. It is known for its impressive electric torque and power range.
III. Nitin Gadkari and the Hyundai IONIQ 5
India’s Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari, has been spotted travelling in the Hyundai IONIQ 5, one of the longest-range mass-market EVs available in India. The IONIQ 5 comes equipped with a 72.6 kWh battery pack, offering an ARAI-certified 631 km range on a full charge.
It gets a single rear-mounted electric motor putting out 214 hp of maximum power and 350 Nm of peak torque, feeding the rear. As per the company’s claims, the Hyundai EV can sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.6 seconds.
IV. Mukesh Ambani's Tesla Model
The Ambani family owns one of India’s largest electric automobile collections. Mukesh Ambani owns two Teslas. The Tesla Model S 100 D and Model X 100 D are such models. Mukesh Ambani bought the two electric automobiles from a Tesla outlet in the United States. Following that, he had the vehicles imported.
The Tesla Model S 100 D and Model X 100 D electric vehicles are high-performance versions of the standard sedan.
V. Riteish Deshmukh's BMW iX SUV and Tesla Model X
Riteish Deshmukh has added a brand-new BMW iX electric SUV to his garage. The BMW iX comes with a 76.6 kWh battery pack, which powers the electric motors to develop a combined output of 240 kW, or 322 bhp, and a peak torque of 630 Nm.
This is not the actor’s first electric vehicle. A few years ago, Genelia also gifted her husband a Tesla Model X. The Model X, known for its speed and overall performance, boasts a range of 475 km on a single charge.
VI. Mahesh Babu with his Audi e-Tron
Telugu cinema star Mahesh Babu owns a brand-new Audi e-Tron. This electric SUV has a maximum torque of 664 Nm and a power of 402 bhp, with a driving range of 484 kilometres.
VII. Madhuri Dixit Nene’s Tata Nexon EV Dark Edition
Earlier in 2023, Madhuri Dixit and her husband, Dr. Shriram Nene, bought the Tata Nexon EV Dark Edition. This electric car is presently the highest-selling electric SUV in the Indian market. It is a premium car variant of the Tata Nexon EV.
The Tata Nexon EV Dark Edition has many elegant features. A few of them are the wireless smartphone charger, a sunroof, cruise control, an air purifier with an AQI display, etc. The electric car has 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
VIII. Shah Rukh Khan’s Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV
Hyundai Motor India Ltd. has delivered the 1,100th unit of its all-electric IONIQ 5 to none other than Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who also happens to be associated with the Korean carmaker as its brand ambassador for 25 years now.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is currently the brand’s flagship offering in the Indian market, priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The IONIQ 5 has a 72.6 kWh battery pack that delivers a range of 631 km on a single full charge (ARAI).
Conclusion
Electric vehicles are making an impact in India, and celebrities have played an important part in boosting their popularity. As more people, particularly celebrities, transition to electric vehicles, India is expected to experience a significant increase in the adoption of EVs. The decision of these icons to drive electric vehicles sends a clear signal about the need for sustainable modes of transportation.
Celebrities embracing EVs in India are not just making a fashion statement but also pushing for a greener, more sustainable future. As more celebrities join the EV wave, it will be fascinating to see how this trend develops in the following years.
