FORWARD CHARGE

Tata Motors continues the expansion of its all-electric range with the launch of the Punch.ev that enters the more affordable end of the EV segment slotting in between the Tiago.ev and Nexon.ev

There was a time when the electric vehicle would reside in the dreams of commoners. But with battery costs coming down, the EV movement has taken steam. This is especially because the technology is now trickling down to smaller and more affordable cars. This is exactly why the Tata Punch.ev makes a solid case for itself.

The Punch.ev is based on the company’s new EV architecture called Acti.ev. It is essentially the Tata Punch compact SUV which has morphed to become an EV. Hence, the Punch.ev gets the same design elements and treatments as other Tata Motor EVs. There is a fancy connected LED DRL up front which looks smart. The bumper is new and so are the light panels. The flared fenders on the side add to the SUV look. The profile also reveals a rather generous 190mm ground clearance and new alloys shod with low rolling resistance tyres. The rear end though looks much like the ICE-powered vehicle and it is here where we believe Tata could have done a little more in form of connected LED tail lights etc.

Inside, the Punch.ev sees significant upgrades. The dash houses a 10.25in infotainment touchscreen which is properly loaded. Apart from the usual Android and Apple connectivity, the system also offers app functions and one can access Amazon Prime among other OTT apps. The system also offers an air quality monitor and also understands hinglish commands for various functionalities. The good news is that the system operates well and is no longer a hit-and-miss. Right below the infotainment system sits a console finished in piano black.