The design of JSW Motors' upcoming electric SUV based on the Chery iCaur V23 has been patented in India, showing several exterior changes for the India-spec, JSW-badged version.

The overall design remains similar to the international-spec model, while the patent images show a redesigned grille and alloy wheels, along with a panoramic sunroof that is not offered on the international model.

It is expected to form part of JSW Motors' portfolio in India and could be positioned as an electric off-roader. Sources suggest that the India-spec version could be offered with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup and is likely to be priced at around Rs. 2 million (US$ 20,870). JSW Motors intends to position the model against the Mahindra Thar Roxx and Force Gurkha 5-door.

Revised exterior design

The patent images show that the JSW Motors version retains the boxy silhouette of the Chery iCaur V23, along with its circular LED headlights, LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) and black surrounds.

It also retains the side steps and flared wheel arches. The India-spec version differs from the international model in several areas. The closed-off grille has been redesigned, while the front bumper appears unchanged.

The side profile features a different alloy wheel design. A rectangular element is also visible on the closed-off portion between the C- and D-pillars; this element is absent on the international-spec iCaur V23. The design patent also shows a panoramic sunroof, which is not available on the international model.

At the rear, the design appears to remain unchanged from the international model, including the slim LED tail-lights and tailgate-mounted storage box.

Interior expected to remain largely unchanged

The JSW Motors-badged SUV is expected to retain the basic interior design of the international-spec Chery iCaur V23, although it could receive a new cabin theme and revised seat upholstery. The international-spec model features a dashboard without a conventional driver's display, with instrumentation instead shown on the 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The cabin also features a three-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls, while rotary controls below the infotainment screen operate functions such as drive modes, audio and climate control.

It is offered in a five-seat configuration with leatherette upholstery. Major changes to the dashboard design are not expected for the India-spec version.

AWD version likely for India

Internationally, the Chery iCaur V23 is available with two battery options: a 59.93kWh unit and an 81.76kWh unit.

The smaller 59.93kWh battery is paired with a rear-axle-mounted electric motor producing 136 PS and 180 Nm of torque. It has an NEDC-claimed range of 360km.

The larger 81.76kWh battery is paired with a dual-motor AWD setup producing a combined 211 PS and 292 Nm. It has an NEDC-claimed range of 430km.

Sources suggest that the India-spec JSW Motors version is likely to use the dual-motor AWD setup. The model is expected to be positioned as an electric off-roader and compete with the Mahindra Thar Roxx and Force Gurkha 5-door. The JSW Motors-badged electric SUV is likely to be priced at around Rs. 2 million (ex-showroom).