MG has introduced a rather interesting cost structure with the new Windsor EV which can be a bit tricky to understand
The cost structure of the new MG Windsor is quite creative. However, some people could find it a bit complicated. That is why it makes sense to know the salient points of this price model. Windsor EV is the latest entrant in the Indian automobile market. This is MG’s third all-electric model for India after the ZS EV and Comet EV. As EVs become more popular, it makes sense for carmakers to expand their portfolios. That is exactly what MG is doing. For now, let us take a look at the details of this case here.
Cost Structure of MG Windsor
For the uninitiated, MG is offering the Windsor EV in a way that you just can pay for the car and battery separately. To achieve this, the vehicle costs Rs 9.99 lakh, ex-showroom. On top of that, MG is selling batteries as per usage. This is called the BaaS (Battery as a Service) model. Buyers will need to pay Rs 3.5 for every km of usage. However, if you dig a bit deeper, you will know that there is a minimum rent every month for 1,500 km whether you drive this much or not. Hence, you must take care of this aspect. If you drive more than 1,500 km, then you can simply calculate the amount using the Rs 3.5 per km rule. You will need to pay this amount until the cost of the battery is paid.
Secondly, the company says that the buyers will get an unlimited km lifetime warranty on the battery of the Windsor EV. However, the catch is that if you sell this EV or purchase this second-hand, you will only get a standard 8-year warranty on the battery. Finally, the company is offering free public charging for the first year. However, to qualify for this rule, you will need to purchase the car this year itself, i.e., before December 31, 2024. Apart from that, the free charging is available only via MG’s eHUB application. In essence, you need to know all these aspects prior to buying the MG Windsor.
Our View
Buying an EV in India is gaining momentum among new-age buyers. However, we can’t run away from the fact that the prices of electric cars are high and the infrastructure is yet to develop. Hence, cost and range anxiety are two huge reasons why people might refrain from buying one today. However, with this creative pricing, MG has attempted to lessen the burden on the pockets of potential customers. Let us wait to see how things pan out in times to come.