Renault seems to be getting serious about electric mobility in India. The latest proof? A fresh sighting of the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric wearing Chennai number plates. This is not the first time the EV hatchback has been seen on Indian roads, but with recent changes in EV import policies, this new spotting raises some serious questions — could Renault finally be readying the Megane EV for Indian roads?
Highlights
Renault Megane EV spotted testing again in India
Seen with Chennai temporary registration plates
Comes with up to 220 hp and 460 km claimed range (WLTP)
New EV policy slashes import duty from 110% to 15% for EVs above Rs 30 lakh
Renault could explore CBU launch route under new policy
Back in 2023, the Megane EV had already been spotted in India, but that time it was believed to be undergoing internal evaluation with no launch plans confirmed. Now, in 2025, it’s back again — and this time, the timing seems more strategic.
With the Indian government’s newly introduced Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), the landscape for premium EVs has changed dramatically. One major clause of this policy allows electric vehicles priced above USD 35,000 (~Rs 30 lakh) to be imported at a significantly reduced 15% import duty, compared to the previous 110%. That opens up the possibility for carmakers to bring in EVs via CBU route while testing the Indian market.
Megane EV’s UK pricing starts at £32,495 (approximately Rs 37.88 lakh), which makes it eligible under the new policy.
The Renault Megane E-Tech Electric is based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-EV platform, which is the same architecture that underpins the Nissan Ariya. It is available in two variants globally — one with a 96 kW (130 hp) motor and another more powerful 160 kW (220 hp) option.
The more powerful version can do 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. The EV was initially launched with 40 kWh and 60 kWh battery packs, although most markets now offer only the 60 kWh version. According to WLTP standards, the range is rated at 285 miles or roughly 460 km on a single charge.
Charging options include:
150 kW DC fast charging: 15%-80% in 32 minutes
22 kW AC charger: 15%-80% in 4 hours 10 minutes
7.4 kW AC home charger: ~6 hours for 15%-80% charge
The Megane EV is packed with features like an advanced Google-based infotainment system, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Level 2 ADAS, and a panoramic sunroof (in higher trims).
Who Would It Compete With in India?
If launched in India, the Renault Megane EV would directly go up against the Hyundai Kona Electric (new-gen), Kia Niro EV, BYD Atto 3, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.3 if it makes it to India.
With European styling, advanced tech, and premium build quality, the Megane EV could position itself as a niche but desirable offering in the Rs 30-45 lakh price range.
Final Thoughts
While Renault India has not officially confirmed the Megane EV’s launch, the timing of these recent tests and the new EV import policy do make the situation interesting. With other automakers like Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen showing interest in the SPMEPCI scheme, Renault could be gearing up to join the party.
If things align, the Megane E-Tech Electric may finally become a part of India’s growing EV fleet by 2026. Until then, all eyes remain on these camouflaged test runs.
