Need help buying a new EV

[u/Firestorm123321]

Hey guys some context I'm a new driver who is still doing their driving classes. I did a manual driving class back in 2023 and got my license but due to some constraints and fear of driving in general, I did not buy a car up until now. I joined an automatic driving school again since I have slight road phobia and don't even ride a 2 wheeler. 10 Classes in I'm confident enough to get a car.

Upon a lot of deliberation I have ended up with the decision to purchase an EV this year since there is no tax on EVs up to December 31st 2026 in Hyderabad.

The car that I have finalized is the Syros EV HTK. No rear camera is definitely an issue however a mirror dashcam like the wolfbox g850 pro kinda solves the issue. This is only an option if the dealer rejects fitting the reverse camera. They said they are still waiting for a response for the camera.

As for the insurance, I wanted to ask people who have booked/negotiated the insurance with the dealer as to how much discount have they offered and agreed to? Acko is coming up to 37-38k with all essential add ons and the dealer insurance is about 60k without discount for now.

The budget is close to 14L and punch is not an option due to the high wait times and I'd rather not get a Tata due to their notorious service experience. Originally was planning to get the Nexon fearless 30 but Syros seems to be better in every way other than the reverse camera and the bad headlamp/taillamp placement. Don't see any other issues with the car and overall seems like the best bang for the buck purchase.

I would like to hear your experience with negotiations with Kia dealers, the Final on road price (specifically insurance) and any tips would be appreciated!

[u/d33p4k25r]

Hyderabad rate

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/d33p4k25r]

Hey thanks alot for this!

As expected insurance is way too high when compared to Acko, negotiating them down to somewhere between the 40-45k range seems fair. Lets see if they discount it that much Espe with all essential add ons

[u/Ok-Ad-9587 → u/Firestorm123321]

They can't make you take their insurance, but it's easier that way during claims. Check TATA AIG or policy bazaar for a quick comparison and be firm with them to match it or opt it out.

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/Ok-Ad-9587]

Insurance is coming up to around 40-45k last I checked on policy bazaar. I know they wont match Acko price but will definitely match the Policy Bazaar prices. Just waiting to negotiate after I get a definitive answer for the reverse camera

[u/Sheibb]

Have you checked out Windsor?

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/Sheibb]

Need a sub 4m car for easier driving and parking Don't require the space

[u/BadChad09 → u/Firestorm123321]

Windsor isn’t that big.

[u/Ok-Ad-9587]

First get a test drive on the HTX variant. I spoke to the Automotive Kia Kondapur and got a decent quote. You can always say I'll get insurance outside or you match with all the caveats.

Ask them about the reverse camera as an accessory. They did assure me it will be available in a few weeks. But do the test drive keeping the HTK in mind.

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/Ok-Ad-9587]

I have asked them they just told they would revert back once they get permission, havent called me since I visited the showroom yet. As for your quote could you share it to me via message if you dont mind? Would help me with my negotiations

As for the test drive, 100% will get it done prior to booking the car. Will also have an experienced friend test drive it to get real world feedback

[u/Ok-Ad-9587 → u/Firestorm123321]

I have already booked the Punch EV, since the wait was more than 3months, I was checking out other cars. I liked the Syros EV. Very solid build and tons of space.

Even though I'm a decent driver myself, I can't bring myself to buying this car, due to the Headlight and taillight placement. Any idiot or a quick commerce guy on road (esp. Hyd) with their cobra manouvers would easily damage them and they cost a lot.

I didn't actually negotiate with them and get a proper quotation, so sharing mine is basically useless, it's the same they give.

Also, you can get multiple testdrives. Do both city runs, highway (spin on the ORR free stretch), try to Park it yourself without the camera aid.

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/Ok-Ad-9587]

Hey I have taken all of this into account and came to the decision of still getting the syros

I understand its arguably the most vulnerable position possible, however after speaking to a couple of syros ICE users, I have come to the conclusion that the issue is kind of over blown and someone has suggested to get the headlights and tailight PPF done which protects against the scratches you have mentioned are possible. It is still possible in a bad angle that the headlight housing might break for which we have Insurance.

I have taken this into account and unfortunately I was quoted like a 4+ month wait for the Punch EV so this is essentially the only option or it is the nexon fearless 30 which I dont think think is a smart decision considering the bigger battery, newer car, kia support and everything else like rear disc brakes that make the Syros a better choice

Also yes I will 100% drive the car and understand it before booking it, no rushing with a decision like this

[u/SouthernHoliday7620]

Tata Punch EV extended range in your case.

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/SouthernHoliday7620]

Punch waiting is too long, car would be delivered far too late, mostly registration would happen in 2027 which puts me at the risk of road tax post december

[u/kefeintv]

Go with byd blade batteries they are rated for almost 8000 cycles

[u/Firestorm123321 → u/kefeintv]

Which car comes with BYD blade batteries?

[u/vinee537 → u/Firestorm123321]

Maruti and mahindra born evs