French EV Ligier Myli Spied in India: A Budget-Friendly Rival to MG Comet EV!
India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is buzzing with activity, and the latest entrant to grab attention is the Ligier Myli, a compact electric car from the French automaker Ligier. Known for its motorsport legacy and innovative microcars, Ligier is now eyeing the Indian market with its budget-friendly 2-door EV, which could rival the popular MG Comet EV, currently India’s most affordable electric car.
Recently, the Ligier Myli was spotted undergoing testing in Pune, India, by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), sparking speculation about its potential launch. Let’s dive into what this French EV has to offer and how it could shake up India’s growing electric car segment.
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Ligier Myli: A Glimpse of the Future
The Ligier Myli has been spied in India multiple times, with the first sightings reported in mid-2023. The latest spy shots show the Myli being transported on the back of a pickup truck, hinting at ongoing homologation tests by ARAI. While the left-hand-drive configuration suggests that a launch may not be imminent, Ligier’s consistent testing indicates its serious intent to enter the Indian market.
A Legacy of Innovation
Ligier is no stranger to the automotive world. The brand has a rich history in motorsports, including participation in Formula 1 (1976-1996) and the 24-Hour Le Mans. Today, Ligier focuses on manufacturing micro electric cars and commercial vehicles (CVs) under its Ligier Professional division. The Myli is its most affordable offering, designed to cater to urban commuters seeking a compact, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly EV.
Design and Features: What We Know So Far
The Ligier Myli is available in four trim levels—G.OOD, I.DEAL, E.PIC, and R.EBEL—and offers up to eight color options, including the newly introduced Velvet Green Metallic. The top-spec R.EBEL trim stands out with dual-tone body cladding, a unique front grille, and stylish design elements.
Exterior Highlights
- Compact Design: The Myli’s 2-door layout and small footprint make it ideal for navigating crowded urban streets.
- Round Headlights: The front profile features retro-style round headlights and a glossy black grille with the Ligier logo.
- Glass Rear Tailgate: The rear design, with its glass tailgate, evokes memories of the Honda Brio.
- Budget-Friendly Touches: Features like a single windshield wiper blade hint at its cost-effective positioning.
Interior Features
The Ligier Myli’s interior varies across trims, offering a mix of basic and premium features:
- Base Trims (G.OOD and I.DEAL):
- 63 km range on a single charge.
- 13-inch steel wheels (G.OOD) or 14-inch alloy wheels (I.DEAL).
- Optional 1-DIN audio system in the I.DEAL trim.
- Higher Trims (E.PIC and R.EBEL):
- 123 km range, with an optional High Performance Range offering up to 192 km.
- 15-inch alloy wheels.
- 10-inch touchscreen instrument cluster with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Reversing camera and other advanced features.
Performance and Range
The Ligier Myli is designed to cater to urban commuters with its compact size and efficient performance. Here’s a breakdown of its range and features by trim:
- G.OOD and I.DEAL:
- 63 km range on a single charge.
- Basic features for budget-conscious buyers.
- E.PIC and R.EBEL:
- 123 km range, extendable to 192 km with the High Performance Range.
- Premium features like a touchscreen display and advanced connectivity options.
The Myli’s range and affordability make it a strong contender in the budget EV segment, directly competing with the MG Comet EV, which has gained popularity for its compact design and accessible pricing.
Why Ligier Myli Could Be a Game-Changer in India
India’s EV market is rapidly expanding, with new players entering the fray to cater to the growing demand for affordable and sustainable mobility solutions. The Ligier Myli has the potential to carve out a niche for itself, thanks to its:
- Compact Size: Perfect for India’s congested urban roads.
- Affordable Pricing: Positioned as a budget-friendly EV, it could attract first-time buyers and eco-conscious commuters.
- Customizable Options: With multiple trims and color choices, the Myli offers something for everyone.
- French Engineering: Ligier’s motorsport heritage adds a touch of credibility and excitement to its offerings.
Challenges Ahead
While the Ligier Myli shows promise, it faces several challenges in the Indian market:
- Competition: The MG Comet EV, with its established presence and strong brand recognition, will be a tough rival.
- Charging Infrastructure: India’s EV charging network is still developing, which could impact adoption rates.
- Localization: To succeed, Ligier will need to localize production and adapt the Myli to meet Indian regulations and consumer preferences.
A New Contender in the EV Race
The Ligier Myli represents a bold step for the French automaker as it eyes the Indian market. With its compact design, customizable trims, and budget-friendly positioning, the Myli has the potential to disrupt the entry-level EV segment and challenge established players like the MG Comet EV.
While its launch timeline remains uncertain, Ligier’s consistent testing and commitment to innovation suggest that the Myli could soon become a reality for Indian consumers. As the EV market continues to grow, the Ligier Myli could play a key role in making sustainable mobility accessible to a wider audience.
