Overview
The Tata Punch EV, launched by Tata Motors on January 17, 2024, is India’s first electric vehicle to be built on the new, dedicated Acti.ev pure-electric architecture. Positioned as a compact electric SUV, it offers two battery options—25 kWh and 35 kWh—delivering a certified driving range of up to 421 km. With a highly competitive starting price, a feature-rich cabin, advanced safety (including 6 airbags as standard or widely available across the line-up), and the innovative inclusion of a small ‘frunk’ (front storage space), the Punch EV is set to be a game-changer for daily commuters and first-time EV buyers, blending practicality, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
Introduction
The automotive landscape in India is undergoing a rapid, electric transformation, and at the forefront of this movement is the homegrown leader, Tata Motors. On January 17, 2024, the company significantly strengthened its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio with the highly anticipated launch of the Tata Punch EV. This launch is not just about adding another model; it marks the debut of Tata’s second-generation EV platform, acti.ev (Advanced Connected Technology for Intelligent Electric Vehicles).
The Punch EV is a crucial launch because it takes the popular, successful micro-SUV format—known for its practicality and rugged stance—and electrifies it from the ground up. Unlike earlier models which adapted existing petrol car platforms, the Punch EV is a pure EV, built specifically for electric powertrains. This shift brings several special features and enhancements.
Key highlights of this newly launched model include the introduction of a “frunk” (front storage space) for the first time in an Indian EV, providing a useful 14 litre of additional storage. The car is also loaded with premium features previously reserved for higher-end models, such as ventilated front seats, an electric parking brake with auto hold, a 360-degree camera system, and the stunning new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo, all designed to deliver a premium, tech-forward experience at an accessible price point.
Exterior and Interior Design
The Tata Punch EV features a design that seamlessly blends the familiar rugged appeal of the internal combustion engine (ICE) Punch with the modern, sleek aesthetic of Tata’s current EV line-up, taking strong cues from the Nexon EV facelift.
Exterior Design Highlights
The electric micro-SUV boasts a distinctly modern front fascia, thanks to its new architecture.
- Front Fascia: It features a full-width LED light bar (DRL—Daytime Running Lamp) that stretches across the bonnet line, lending it a sophisticated, futuristic look. The charging port is conveniently positioned at the front for easier public charging.
- Headlamps: The main projector LED headlamps are vertically positioned in the redesigned bumper, giving it a powerful, vertical split-lamp design.
- Wheels: New aero-designed alloy wheels (up to 16-inch) enhance the car’s dynamic look and help improve aerodynamic efficiency.
- Frunk: A major new addition is the 14-litre frunk (front trunk) located under the bonnet, which is perfect for storing the charging cable or small bags.
- Ground Clearance: It maintains a commanding 190 mm of unladen ground clearance, retaining its micro-SUV credentials.
- Available Colours: The Punch EV is offered in several attractive dual-tone colour options, including Pristine White, Daytona Grey, Fearless Red, Seaweed Green, and Empowered Oxide, often paired with a contrasting black roof.
Interior Features, Comfort Options, and Build Quality
The interior of the Punch EV represents a significant step up in quality and technology, borrowing premium elements from Tata’s flagship models.
- Dashboard and Steering: The cabin features a premium dual-tone theme. The highlight is the new two-spoke steering wheel, which includes an illuminated Tata logo, offering a touch of class and modernity.
- Infotainment: Higher variants come equipped with two large 10.25-inch screens: a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system and a full digital driver’s display (digital cockpit).
- Comfort Features (Top-end): Premium features like ventilated front seats and a touch-based climate control panel elevate the cabin experience.
- Build Quality: Built on the acti.ev platform, which uses high-strength materials, the cabin is well put together. The fit and finish, along with the leatherette upholstery in the top variants, give it a premium feel.
- Storage: The boot space is a respectable 366 litres, complementing the 14 litre frunk.
Battery and Performance
The Tata Punch EV is engineered to cater to both city commutes and longer trips by offering two distinct battery and performance options, both built around Tata’s high energy density Ziptron technology.
Powering the Punch
The car is available in a standard Medium Range (MR) version and a more powerful Long Range (LR) version.
| Battery Version | Capacity (kWh) | Motor Power (kW/bhp) | Torque (Nm) | Claimed Driving Range (km) (MIDC) |
| Medium Range | 25 | 60 kW/80.46 bhp | 114 | 315 |
| Long Range | 35 | 90 kW/120.69 bhp | 190 | 421 |
The Long Range variant delivers punchy performance, allowing the micro-SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.5 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 140 km/h. Both motors are Permanent Magnet Synchronous AC Motors (PMSM) for instant torque delivery.
Charging Details
The Punch EV supports multiple charging standards, ensuring flexibility for owners. It features a CCS2 charging port and an IP67 rating for the battery pack and motor, offering superior protection against dust and water. The car also features 4-level regenerative braking, controllable via paddle shifters, to recover energy while slowing down.
| Feature | Specification |
| Battery Capacity | 25 kWh or 35 kWh |
| Range | 315 km or 421 km (MIDC Claimed) |
| Motor Power | 60 kW or 90 kW |
| Fast Charging Time (DC) | 10 – 80% in 56 mins (using 50 kW charger) |
| AC Charging Time (3.3 kW) | 10 – 100% in ≈9.5 hours (25 kWh) |
| AC Fast Charging Time (7.2 kW) | 10 – 100% in ≈3.6 hours (25 kWh) |
Variants and Price
Tata Motors has strategically launched the Punch EV in five main variants—Smart, Smart Plus, Adventure, Empowered, and Empowered Plus—with the choice of Medium Range (MR) or Long Range (LR) battery packs and optional 7.2 kW AC fast chargers. This extensive line-up ensures there is a version for every budget and need.
The introductory ex-showroom price starts from just under Rs. 10 Lakh for the base Smart MR variant.
| Variant | Battery (kWh) | Range (km) (MIDC) | Charger Options | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) |
| Smart | 25 (MR) | 315 | 3.3 kW | 9,99,000 |
| Smart Plus | 25 (MR) | 315 | 3.3 kW | 11,14,000 |
| Adventure | 25 (MR) | 315 | 3.3 kW | 11,84,000 |
| Adventure LR | 35 (LR) | 421 | 3.3 kW | 12,84,000 |
| Empowered | 25 (MR) | 315 | 3.3 kW | 12,64,000 |
| Empowered Plus | 25 (MR) | 315 | 3.3 kW | 12,84,000 |
| Empowered LR | 35 (LR) | 421 | 3.3 kW | 13,44,000 |
| Empowered Plus LR AC FC | 35 (LR) | 421 | 7.2 kW | 14,14,000 |
Note: Prices are introductory ex-showroom prices and are subject to change. The variants marked ‘S’ typically include a sunroof and additional features like auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers.
Safety and Technology
Safety has been a major focus for the Punch EV, continuing Tata Motors’ strong reputation in this area. It also introduces several advanced tech features, making the car a highly connected and safe option in its segment.
Safety Features
The Punch EV is built on the secure acti.ev platform and is underpinned by a structure designed for high crash safety.
- Airbags: The Punch EV is equipped with 6 airbags across all variants (Dual front, side, and curtain).
- Braking & Stability: Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and all 4 disc brakes on the Long Range variant for superior stopping power.
- Driver Aids: It features Hill Hold Control and Hill Descent Control (on select variants) for added confidence on inclines.
- Parking & Monitoring: Higher trims include a 360-degree camera system for easy parking and iTPMS (intelligent Tyre Pressure Monitoring System).
- Advanced Features: The top variant offers an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold, a feature usually found in much more expensive vehicles.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Punch EV is a truly digital car, offering a high-tech cabin experience.
- Infotainment System: A crisp 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system by HARMAN is available on the Empowered and Empowered Plus trims.
- Driver Display: This is complemented by a 10.25-inch full digital instrument cluster (Digital Cockpit) that can display navigation maps, providing crucial information to the driver.
- Connectivity: It offers Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The car also features the Arcade.ev app suite, allowing users to access various apps, including multimedia and streaming services.
- Convenience: Other high-tech amenities include a wireless smartphone charger, multiple voice assistants, and the Smart Digital DRLs which act as a charging indicator to show the battery status.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Tata Motors offers a comprehensive warranty package for the Punch EV, reflecting their confidence in the vehicle’s electrical and mechanical reliability.
- Vehicle Warranty: The standard warranty for the entire vehicle is 3 years or 1,25,000 km, whichever comes first.
- Battery and Motor Warranty: The most crucial component, the high-voltage Lithium-ion battery pack and the electric motor, are covered by a substantial warranty of 8 years or 1,60,000 km, providing complete peace of mind to the owner.
- Service Network: Tata Motors boasts one of the largest networks of dealerships and authorised service centres in India, which has been rapidly expanding its capability to service and support electric vehicles across major cities and regional towns. This widespread availability of service and expertise ensures strong after-sales support for the Punch EV customer base.
Launch Details
The Tata Punch EV was officially launched on January 17, 2024, with the announcement of its introductory prices and key specifications.
- Bookings: Pre-orders for the micro-SUV EV had already begun prior to the launch with a token amount of Rs. 21,000.
- Delivery Timelines: Deliveries to customers were scheduled to commence shortly after the launch, starting from January 22, 2024.
- Availability: The Punch EV is available for purchase and test drives at all Tata Motors showrooms authorized for EV sales and the dedicated Tata.ev stores across the country, ensuring immediate availability across key cities and expanding regions in India.
Official Company Website
For the most accurate and latest information, specifications, and to explore the vehicle configurator, please visit the manufacturer’s official electric vehicle website: Tata Punch EV Official Website
FAQ
What is the price range of the Tata Punch EV?
The introductory ex-showroom price of the Tata Punch EV starts at Rs. 9.99 Lakh for the base Smart 25 kWh Medium Range variant and goes up to Rs. 14.44 Lakh for the top-end Empowered Plus S Long Range 7.2 kW AC Fast Charger variant (all prices are ex-showroom, introductory).
What is the claimed driving range of the Tata Punch EV?
The Tata Punch EV offers two range options (MIDC certified):
The Medium Range (MR) variant with the 25 kWh battery offers a claimed range of 315 km per charge.
The Long Range (LR) variant with the 35 kWh battery offers a claimed range of 421 km per charge. Real-world range will vary depending on driving conditions.
How long does charging take for the Tata Punch EV?
Charging times vary depending on the charger type:
DC Fast Charging (50 kW): 10 – 80% takes approximately 56 minutes.
AC Fast Charging (7.2 kW): Charging from 10 – 100% takes about 3.6 hours (for 25 kWh MR) or 5 hours (for 35 kWh LR).
Standard AC Charging (3.3 kW): Charging from 10 – 100% takes approximately 9.5 hours (for 25 kWh MR).
Is the Tata Punch EV available across India?
Yes, the Tata Punch EV is available across India. It is sold through all Tata Motors dealerships that are authorized for EV sales and the dedicated Tata.ev stores, covering all major metropolitan areas and expanding to smaller cities.
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