Tata Motors is set to strengthen its position in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Punch EV, strategically positioned between the Nexon EV and Tiago EV. As Tata's fourth electric offering, the Punch EV is poised to become India's best-selling EV, thanks to its SUV design, affordability (priced at Rs 10.99 lakh-15.49 lakh), and a lack of direct competitors.
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Revamped Architecture for Electric Prowess:
Tata Motors applies the successful Nexon electrification formula to the Punch, transforming its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart into a distinct EV with enhanced features and technology. Notably, the Punch EV stands out as the first Tata built on the Acti.ev architecture, a comprehensive reengineering for pure EV application. This overhaul includes a flat floor, wider battery recess, and increased ground clearance to 190mm, showcasing a 30% higher chassis torsional stiffness than the ICE model. These changes contribute to improved ride comfort without compromising safety.
Battery Options, Range, and Charging:
The Punch EV offers two battery sizes – a standard 25kWh pack and a long-range 35kWh version. Tata Motors claims an impressive range of 315km and 421km for the standard and long-range variants, respectively. Despite expectations for a larger battery, the Punch EV utilizes cylindrical LFP cells similar to the Nexon EV, ensuring cost-effectiveness and reliability. The charging system includes a CCS2 port, offering a maximum speed of 25kW on DC fast chargers, with a claimed 56 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
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Stylish Design and Enhanced Features:
The Punch EV retains the appealing design of its petrol counterpart, featuring a blanked-out grille, a distinctive LED light strip, and a signature Tata EV look. Inside, the cabin boasts two 10.2-inch screens housing the Arcade.ev suite of 17 apps, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. The top-end variant, Empowered+, offers premium features such as a 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, ventilated leatherette seats, electronic parking brake, air purifier, and advanced voice assistants.
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Comfort and Performance on the Road:
Despite being a compact SUV, the Punch EV offers impressive comfort with well-shaped seats, a generous 366-litre boot, and a high-seating position. The EV's performance is a standout feature, with a powerful 122hp electric motor providing a smooth and silent driving experience. The three driving modes – Sport, City, and Eco – cater to different preferences, offering a thrilling experience in Sport mode and practicality in City and Eco modes. However, some enthusiasts may miss the intense acceleration of the initial torque surge seen in traditional electric vehicles.
Ride and Handling:
Tata Motors focuses on ride comfort, employing softer dampers to absorb road imperfections and deliver a smoother experience. The Punch EV demonstrates stability in straight-line driving and maintains a connection with the road during corners. The steering, while light, lacks some communicative feedback, and the brakes inspire confidence.
A Game-Changer in the EV Market:
In conclusion, the Tata Punch EV emerges as a formidable contender in the EV market, excelling as an urban runabout. Despite minor drawbacks in cabin finish and rear-seat space, its superb equipment, pricing, and urban-friendly design make it a compelling choice. Tata Motors seems to have hit the mark with the Punch EV, offering an unmatched package in the electric vehicle landscape.