Kia Reveals India-Made Carens Clavis EV – A Versatile Electric RV That May Soon Reach Malaysia
Remember the Kia Carens? Well it got a massive glow up recently and now there’s a new electric version. Kia has officially unveiled the Carens Clavis EV, its first electric vehicle developed and manufactured in India, marking a significant step in the brand’s global electrification strategy. With a bold SUV-inspired design and real-world practicality, the Carens Clavis EV is aimed at emerging markets—including Southeast Asia—and could be a strong contender for launch in Malaysia.
Designed from the ground up as a lifestyle-ready recreational vehicle (RV), the Carens Clavis EV is built to meet the needs of urban commuters, family users, and adventurous drivers alike. Kia’s move to produce this EV in India underlines its strategy to deliver accessible, affordable, and reliable electric mobility tailored for growing markets.
Impressive Specs for Real-Life Use
The Carens Clavis EV is offered with two battery options:
- 42 kWh battery with 404 km of ARAI-certified range (MIDC)
- 51.4 kWh battery with 490 km of range
Range figures are quoted on MIDC, which is not quite as stringent as WLTP, so take it with a pinch of salt. DC fast charging from 10% to 80% takes just 39 minutes, while power outputs range from 99kW (225Nm) to 126kW (255Nm), ensuring confident performance even when fully loaded.
Its IP67-rated battery offers dust and water resistance, and Kia’s advanced thermal management systems promise consistent performance in a wide range of climates—ideal for hot and humid environments like Malaysia.
Packed with Features and Family-Friendly Tech
Inside, the Carens Clavis EV offers a premium experience with a 26.62-inch dual panoramic display, front ventilated seats, Bose sound system, and 64-color ambient lighting. The cabin is flexible, with second-row seats that tumble at the press of a button and ‘Boss Mode’ for ultimate rear comfort.
It also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), allowing users to power devices from the vehicle—perfect for camping or outdoor work.
Top-Tier Safety and Connectivity
With ADAS Level 2 capabilities and over 18 standard safety features, including six airbags and ESC, the Carens Clavis EV offers peace of mind for families. Additionally, its 90+ connected car features and Kia’s K-Charge app provide seamless EV ownership, including access to over 11,000 charging stations.
Could Malaysia Be Next?
Given its local production roots and practical feature set, the Carens Clavis EV is perfectly positioned for Malaysia’s rapidly expanding EV market. With government incentives in place for EV imports until the end of 2025, Kia Malaysia may find this India-made EV an attractive and strategic model to introduce.
If launched here, the Clavis EV would slot in neatly below the EV6 and EV9, appealing to a broader customer base looking for affordable, versatile, and tech-rich electric mobility.
