The Indian Car of the Year 2026 awards are finally here, and the shortlist clearly signals a turning point for the Indian automotive industry. Electric vehicles dominate the ICOTY 2026 finalists list, reinforcing the growing acceptance of EVs across mass-market, premium, and green mobility segments. With several strong contenders offering long ranges, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, the big question remains: will an EV take home the prestigious Indian Car of the Year title this year?ICOTY Finalists 2026: Main CategoryHyundai Creta EVThe Hyundai Creta EV enters the ICOTY 2026 race as one of the most anticipated electric SUVs in India. Priced between ₹18 and ₹25 lakh, it offers two battery options: a 42 kWh pack delivering around 420 km of range and a larger 51.4 kWh battery promising up to 510 km. Power comes from a permanent magnet motor producing roughly 170 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque. The Creta EV stands out with features such as ADAS, six airbags, panoramic sunroof, large infotainment display, connected tech, and fast AC and DC charging, making it a well-rounded family EV.Kia Carens Clavis EVThe Kia Carens Clavis EV brings electric mobility to the MPV segment. Priced in the ₹18–25 lakh range, it is available in Standard and Extended Range versions with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery packs, offering up to 490 km of range. With power outputs ranging from 133 bhp to 169 bhp, the Carens Clavis EV focuses on comfort and practicality. Highlights include a seven-seat layout, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, dual digital displays, Level 2 ADAS, and fast charging that takes the battery from 10 to 80 percent in about 39 minutes.Mahindra XEV 9eThe Mahindra XEV 9e is positioned as a premium coupe-style electric SUV and is among the most powerful contenders in the ICOTY 2026 lineup. Priced between ₹22 and ₹30 lakh, it offers 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery options, delivering up to 656 km of claimed range. With rear-wheel drive, outputs up to 282 bhp, a 0–100 km/h time of 6.8 seconds, and support for 175 kW DC fast charging, the XEV 9e combines performance with cutting-edge tech. The cabin features triple screens, Level 2 ADAS, a large boot, and a front trunk, adding to its appeal.Tata Harrier EVThe Tata Harrier EV is one of the strongest Indian contenders for ICOTY 2026. Priced between ₹21 and ₹30 lakh, it offers 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery options with a maximum claimed range of 627 km. Available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, power outputs range from 235 bhp to 390 bhp, with torque figures reaching 504 Nm. The Harrier EV also boasts fast charging, multiple terrain modes, dual-motor AWD capability, and a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, making it a compelling mix of safety, performance, and practicality.Premium Car Award 2026: FinalistsBMW iX1 LWBThe BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase is a premium electric SUV priced around ₹50 lakh. It features a 66.4 kWh battery offering up to 531 km of range and a 204 hp motor. With BMW OS 9, a spacious cabin, vegan leather options, and fast charging support, the iX1 LWB targets buyers seeking luxury with sustainability.MG CybersterThe MG Cyberster is easily the most eye-catching finalist. Priced at around ₹75 lakh, this electric two-seater convertible offers supercar-like performance with up to 503 bhp, 725 Nm of torque, and a 0–100 km/h time of just 3.2 seconds. Its scissor doors, soft-top roof, and high-performance AWD setup make it a unique entry in the ICOTY awards.Green Car Award 2026: FinalistsThe Green Car category is entirely electric ofcourse. Finalists include the BMW iX1 LWB, BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Creta EV, Kia Carens Clavis EV, MG Cyberster, Mahindra XEV 9e, Tata Harrier EV, and the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model Y, priced between ₹60 and ₹68 lakh, offers up to 661 km of WLTP range, blistering acceleration, minimalist interiors, and advanced software-driven features, strengthening its case as a global EV benchmark.With EVs dominating every major ICOTY 2026 category, this year’s awards could mark a historic moment for electric mobility in India. Whether it is a mass-market SUV or a premium electric performance car, the competition has never been stronger. All eyes are now on the final announcement to see which EV, if any, will be crowned the Indian Car of the Year 2026.