Tata Motors has launched its much-awaited electric SUV, the Tata Punch EV in India with prices starting from Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The Punch EV marks Tata’s entry into the rapidly growing electric SUV space and promises to offer a unique combination of style, space, driving dynamics and technology.
Overview
The Tata Punch EV is based on the company’s GEN 2 architecture that promises to deliver long range, fast charging capability, better performance and technology. Available in 5 trim levels with 2 battery pack options, the Punch EV promises up to 421 km of range as per MIDC cycle. Bookings are open for Rs 21,000.
Design and Styling
In terms of design, the Punch EV carries forward the imposing street presence of the standard Punch with a bold front fascia. The closed grill with humanity line and tri-arrow pattern gives it a distinctive look. Flared wheel arches, raked roofline and 16-inch alloy wheels give it a muscular stance.
At the rear, wraparound LED tail lamps and a light bar running across the tailgate give it a hi-tech look. The Punch EV also gets functional roof rails, shark-fin antenna and EV badging across variants.
Colors
The Tata Punch EV is made available in 6 exterior color options – Teal Blue, Daytona Grey, Pristine White, Meteor Bronze, Tropical Mist and a dual-tone option with a black roof – to choose from.
Variants and Pricing
The Punch EV is offered in 2 battery options – 25kWh and 35kWh, with 5 trim levels catering to different price points. Prices start from Rs 10.99 lakh for the base Smart variant and go up to Rs 14.49 lakh for the top-spec Empowered+ variant. Key variants include:
- Smart – Rs 10.99 lakh
- Adventure – Rs 11.99 lakh (25kWh) / Rs 12.99 lakh (35kWh)
- Empowered – Rs 12.79 lakh (25kWh) / Rs 13.99 lakh (35kWh)
- Empowered+ – Rs 13.29 lakh (25kWh) / Rs 14.49 lakh (35kWh)
Features and Technology
The Tata Punch EV offers a premium cabin loaded with features such as a digital instrument cluster, large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, push button start/stop, automatic climate control, cooled glove box, multiple airbags and more. Higher variants also get leatherette seats, electric sunroof, ventilated front seats and a premium sound system.
Safety of Punch EV is taken care of by standard dual airbags, ABS with EBD and corner stability control. Top variants also add side and curtain airbags taking the total count to 6. ISOFIX child seat anchors are also standard.
Battery, Range and Charging
The 25kWh battery delivers an MIDC certified range of 315km on a single charge while the 35kWh battery pushes the range to 421km. DC fast charging from 10-80% takes about 56 minutes using a 50kW charger.
Home charging is enabled through a standard 3.3kW AC wall box charger. Higher variants of Tata Punch EV 2024 also offer an optional 7.2kW AC fast charger to reduce charging times.
Performance and Dynamics
The Punch EV is propelled by permanent magnet synchronous motors tuned for efficiency and performance. The 25kWh variants make 82 hp power and 114 Nm torque allowing 0-60 kph in 5.5 seconds. The 35 kWh variants are more powerful at 122 hp/190 Nm and can hit 60 kph in just 4.3 seconds. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes all around.
Ride quality over broken roads is taken care by a supple suspension setup while the taller stance and 190mm ground clearance help tackle speed breakers and potholes with ease. The Punch EV also promises a relaxing drive experience with very low NVH levels.
So that’s a comprehensive look at what the new Tata Punch EV brings to the table. With its striking looks, feature loaded interior, long driving range and strong performance credentials, it surely has the ingredients to carve a niche for itself in the fledgling electric SUV space in India.
Pros and Cons of Tata Punch EV
Pros
- Wallet-Friendly Price – Tata seems to be aiming for a price that makes this cute little EV truly affordable for average buyers rather than just the luxury crowd.
- Range Anxiety Antidote – Early rumors estimate you could drive this baby up to 300 kilometers on a single full charge. That should cover plenty of in-city commuting and errands.
- Adorable Style – It takes the standard Punch’s funky and rugged looks up another notch. It just makes you want to get behind the wheel.
- People Hauling Made Easy – The tall, square-ish shape means there’s abundant headroom and legroom inside for passengers. No one has to squeeze in.
- The Latest Tech Goodies – As a brand new EV, Tata knows tech-savvy customers will expect all the in-car gadgetry and smart features you could want.
- Smooth Operator – Say goodbye to noisy, vibrate-y engines. The instant oomph from the electric motor should give buttery smooth rides around town.
Cons
- Charging Hurdles – Sadly, India still lacks a ton of charging station access compared to other countries. Finding top-up juice could prove tricky.
- Battery Bank Account Buster – If the lithium batteries poop out after the warranty, replacing them could deal a blow to your bank balance.
- The Agony of Slow Charging – Using cheaper, smaller chargers often means you’re stuck waiting hours on end for longer trips’ worth of charge.
- vs The Cool Kids – The little Punch has its work cut out against EVs from more established brands like Tiago and MG with their slick reputations.
- Unknown Reliability Factor – Questions loom about what repair bills and resale value look like down the road since Tata is new to EVs.
- Limited Hauling Space – Packing people inside cuts into cargo room thanks to bulky battery components tucked away underneath.
