whispers have turned into tangible signs: the MG M9, a luxurious all-electric MPV that grabbed eyeballs at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, is set to arrive in India, and it is taking the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route. This decision carries significant weight, potentially altering the landscape of the premium electric vehicle segment in the country and sparking a genuine question about accessibility to high-end electric mobility.
For months, the automotive community buzzed about the M9’s potential India debut. Its sheer size, opulent interior showcased at the expo, and its all-electric powertrain positioned it as a compelling, if not aspirational, offering. But the critical piece of the puzzle – how MG would bring this international model to India – remained under wraps. Now, with confirmations pointing towards local assembly via the CKD method, the picture becomes clearer, and frankly, more exciting for potential buyers.
The CKD route essentially means MG Motor India will import the M9 in parts and assemble it at their facility in India. This approach is a commonly used strategy by manufacturers to navigate India’s tax structure, which heavily favors locally assembled vehicles over fully built imports (CBUs). The difference in import duties between CKD kits and CBUs is substantial. By opting for CKD, MG can significantly reduce the final price tag of the M9 compared to what it would cost as a direct import. This cost advantage is precisely why the CKD assembly plan feels like a breath of fresh air for those dreaming of a spacious, feature-loaded electric MPV without the prohibitive price of a CBU.
Think about it. The luxury MPV segment in India has seen limited options, mostly dominated by conventionally powered vehicles with hefty price tags. Electric options in this space are even scarcer and often fall into the ultra-luxury, CBU category, making them exclusive to a select few. The M9, assembled locally, has the potential to disrupt this. While an official price is still under wraps, industry watchers estimate a significantly more accessible price point compared to potential CBU rivals. This could open the doors to a wider audience, families, businesses, and individuals who prioritize comfort, space, and sustainable mobility but were previously priced out of the luxury electric MPV market.
The M9 is not just about its electric powertrain; it is a statement in luxury and technology. Stepping inside the M9 feels like entering a premium lounge. The layout emphasizes space and comfort, particularly in the second row, which can feature plush captain seats. These aren’t just ordinary seats; they often come with multi-way power adjustments, ventilation, and even massage functions, promising a truly relaxing travel experience. Imagine embarking on a long journey with passengers in the back enjoying a massage while silently gliding along, powered by electricity. It changes the entire dynamic of travel.
The cabin design itself leans towards a minimalist yet sophisticated aesthetic, dominated by large digital displays for infotainment and the driver’s instrument cluster. We are talking about features like a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, multi-zone climate control for individual comfort, and potentially advanced connectivity options that keep everyone entertained and informed on the go. Safety features are also expected to be comprehensive, including a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that add an extra layer of security and convenience to the driving experience.
The heart of the MG M9 is its electric powertrain. The global specifications point towards a 90kWh battery pack, which translates to a considerable driving range. While the exact Indian specifications and certified range will be crucial, the WLTP range of around 430 kilometers suggests that range anxiety might be a thing of the past for most commutes and even longer trips. This substantial range, coupled with the increasing availability of fast-charging infrastructure across India, makes the M9 a practical choice for diverse usage needs. The electric motor is expected to deliver healthy performance figures as well, ensuring smooth acceleration and a refined driving experience characteristic of electric vehicles.
Beyond the pricing and features, the CKD assembly route also aligns with the Indian government’s push for ‘Make in India’. By assembling vehicles locally, MG contributes to the domestic manufacturing ecosystem, potentially creating jobs and fostering skills development within the country. This is a positive ripple effect that extends beyond just bringing a new product to market.
MG Motor India has been steadily expanding its portfolio in the country, from popular SUVs like the Hector and Gloster to electric offerings like the ZS EV and Comet EV. The M9’s entry, particularly through the CKD route, signals MG’s serious commitment to the Indian market and its strategy to cater to emerging segments. The company is also setting up a dedicated premium dealership network, ‘MG Select’, to retail models like the M9 and the Cyberster EV, promising a distinct customer experience for their high-end offerings.
The decision to bring the M9 as a CKD unit appears to be a well-calculated move. It allows MG to test the waters in the nascent luxury electric MPV segment in India with a competitive pricing strategy from the outset. As the market for electric vehicles matures and charging infrastructure grows, localized assembly provides the flexibility to scale up operations based on demand and potentially increase the level of localization over time, further driving down costs.
While challenges remain, such as the initial investment required for setting up the assembly line and the complexities of the supply chain, the benefits of the CKD approach for both the manufacturer and the consumer are clear. For the Indian car buyer, the MG M9 assembled in India could represent a compelling opportunity to own a state-of-the-art, luxurious electric MPV at a price point that was previously unattainable. It is a development that holds the promise of making sustainable and comfortable luxury travel a more realistic aspiration for many. The coming months leading up to its official launch will undoubtedly be watched closely to see how the M9 is finally priced and received by the discerning Indian market. Will it live up to the promise of accessible electric luxury? The stage is set.
