The Punch – Tata’s tiniest and most affordable SUV in India – is now available in fully electric form, joining the gasoline-powered and CNG-fuelled versions. The Tata Punch EV might look like a facelifted version of its ICE-powered sibling that debuted in 2021, but it is actually based on a new EV-dedicated architecture bringing a number of technological advancements. Visually, the electric version features a redesigned face adopting the automaker’s latest styling language. Notable features include the full-width LEDs, the vertical bumper intakes that house the main headlights, and the grille-less nose with a front-mounted charging port. The profile and the tail look nearly identical to the ICE-powered Punch, setting aside the new 16-inch wheels and the omission of a tailpipe. Inside, the digital dashboard comprises dual 10.25-inch screens, although lower-spec models will feature dual 7-inch displays.
Despite sharing a common silhouette and
footprint with the Punch, the EV tradest the ALFA (Agile Light Flexible
Advanced Architecture) for the more advanced acti.ev platform. Tata didn’t
announce the detailed specifications of the model other than saying it would be
available in standard and long-range forms. However, we do have a few bits of information
about the EV-native and highly modular architecture that will underpin many
other electric models in the future.
The acti.ev is compatible with FWD, RWD,
and AWD configurations, that can be combined with different battery capacities.
Depending on the model, these will allow a range between 300-600 km while being compatible with up to 150 kW fast charging and
bi-directional charging. Furthermore, the Snapdragon Digital Chassis Platform
by Qualcomm supports OTA updates and 5G connectivity. Last but not least, the
new platform has been designed with a greater focus on safety, and will
eventually offer up to Level 2+ ADAS by Mobileye.
Tata is accepting pre-orders for the Punch
EV in India but has yet to announce pricing. According to Autocar India, the
electric model is expected to cost between Rs 10-13 lakh which is the
equivalent of US$ 12,025-15,632 based on the current exchange rates.
