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BhaThe share of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles in the current automobile market is still very low, around 2-2.5%. Also, these vehicles are mostly limited to luxury models. Despite this, these vehicles can prove to be very good for India because apart from being practical, they are also an excellent transition technology. Not only do they reduce petrol consumption and pollution, but they can also be used as a fully electric vehicle (EV) for city driving. These vehicles bridge the gap between petrol (ICE) and full electric cars, especially in a market where charging infrastructure is currently limited.

Despite slow sales, companies like JSW MG Motor India and JSW Motors are preparing to enter this segment. JSW Group, in collaboration with Chery, is planning to launch plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2026. According to the plan, MG Starlight 560 and Jetor T2 will be launched in the second half of 2026, around Diwali, under two separate joint ventures. Let's take a look at these upcoming plug-in hybrid SUVs.

MG Starlight 560

MG Starlight 560 will be based on Wuling Starlight 560 sold in China. It will have a 1.5-litre petrol engine, an electric motor and a 205 kW battery pack. This setup together generates power of 197 bhp and torque of 230 Nm. This vehicle gives an electric range of 100 kilometers once fully charged. At the same time, with a full petrol tank of 52 liters it can run up to 1,100 kilometers. MG Starlight 560 is expected to be launched in October 2026 and will compete with vehicles like Mahindra XUV 7XO and Mahindra XEV 9S.

Jetour T2

The Jetor T2 is based on Cherry's Kunpeng super hybrid C-DM architecture. It has a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, which produces 154-156 bhp power and 220 Nm torque. This engine is paired with two electric motors, a 26.7kWh LFP battery pack and a hybrid transmission. A 43.24kWh battery option is also available in some select global markets. In hybrid mode, the T2 offers a range of over 1,000 km. This SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 7.2 seconds. Although its pricing and positioning are not yet decided, the Jet Tour T2 is expected to compete with SUVs like Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV 7XO, MG Hector Plus and Jeep Meridian.