New Delhi: Kia India has confirmed that a hybrid version of the new Seltos is part of its future plan, but the company is not ready to launch it yet. The main reason is that Kia wants to localise most of the hybrid parts in India before bringing the model to the market. Without localisation, the cost of the Seltos Hybrid would be too high for a segment where customers look closely at value and running costs.
Reports from Autocar professionals also point out that Kia is moving step-by-step as it builds its hybrid roadmap for India.”There is a clear direction that we will introduce a hybrid in the Seltos. Timing is not decided yet because we are trying to localise the hybrid components in India,” said Atul Sood, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing, Kia India.
Why the Seltos Hybrid Is Delayed
Localising hybrid parts such as the motor, battery pack, control unit and inverter is crucial. In markets like the US and Korea, these parts are already produced locally, which helps keep prices in check. But in India, importing these components would make the Seltos Hybrid too expensive, and Kia does not want to risk losing buyers because of high pricing.
Sood also mentioned that another Kia model could get hybrid technology before the Seltos. This shows that the company is aligning its plans with the Hyundai Motor Group’s wider strategy, which includes hybrids, EVs and CNG models. These moves are also connected to CAFE norms and the need to improve fuel efficiency across the lineup.
Tough Hybrid Rivals in the Segment
Meanwhile, the competition in hybrids is getting stronger. Toyota and Maruti Suzuki are pushing their hybrid models aggressively, especially in the mid-size SUV segment. Seltos competitor cars like Hyryder Grand Vitara. These brands already have a strong base of customers who prefer hybrid setups for better mileage and lower running costs, but Kia wants time to launch carefully and make sure the pricing stays competitive.
For Kia, the Seltos Hybrid is not a big deal as they have hybrid variants in other countries, The launch will depend entirely on how quickly the company can localise hybrid components in India and reduce overall costs. Only then can the Seltos Hybrid enter the market with the right price and stand a fair chance against its rivals.