TATA PUNCH EV

Tata's smallest electric SUV packs in more than a Punch!

- SANEET DSILVA

TATA PUNCH EV LONG RANGE  Engine: PMSM Power: 122PS Torque: 190Nm Battery: 35kWh 0-100kmph: 9.5 seconds Range: 421km (claimed) Price: ₹14.49 lakh ex-showroom

Tata Motors can be termed as the leader in the Indian EV space. Being one of the early adopters has allowed the Indian carmaker to enjoy a successful run in the EV spectrum. Another reason for this success is the number of accessible EVs in its portfolio. The Punch EV sets a new direction for the carmaker. It is based on India’s first pure EV architecture, called ‘acti.ev’, one which will underpin its future EVs. But how good is it? Let’s find out.

The Punch EV is built on a new, EV-only platform – the acti.ev, unlike the Ziptron on other Tata EV products and one which is a modified version of the carmaker’s existing ICE platform. Acti.ev stands for ‘Advanced Connected Tech - Intelligent Electric Vehicle.’ It is a layout and battery-agnostic platform, and can be configured as FWD, RWD, and, of course, AWD.  The Tata Punch EV is set up on an FWD platform.

The Punch EV adopts the new “.ev” design language, featuring the signature single LED bar at the front, similar to the Nexon EV. It also incorporates the welcome and goodbye function, along with the charge indicator integrated into the LED DRL itself. Another notable feature is the new sequential turn indicators. The grille has been closed off to enhance the EV’s aerodynamics, giving the Punch EV a clean and streamlined look. The redesigned front bumper is flanked by LED headlamps with the LED fog lamps located below that also double up as cornering lamps.