(Image source from: Carwale.com)
Tata Motors has launched the eagerly awaited Punch EV facelift in India, starting at a price of Rs 9.69 lakh (ex-showroom). This update comes shortly after the refreshed ICE Punch, bringing new looks and technology to compete in the busy entry-level electric vehicle market. It carries the brand's aspirations to expand its presence in a growing sector. Let’s take a closer look at the five key improvements that might help it succeed.
New Pricing Approach: The first significant change is a new pricing approach. The EV now offers an option for Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) starting at Rs 6.49 lakh (ex-showroom), with a cost of Rs 2.6 per km for battery usage. This pricing strategy was first introduced by JSW MG Motor India and is now being adopted by other car manufacturers. Recently, Maruti Suzuki also introduced its first EV, the e Vitara, with a similar pricing strategy.
Sleeker Front Design: The old, complicated front style has been replaced; the facelift now has a more streamlined front with a sealed grille and thin LED daytime running lights connected by a full-width strip. The bumper has a sharper shape, combined with new 16-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels. This gives the Punch EV a more confident appearance without being overwhelming. Moreover, there are three new eye-catching colors, including a bright yellow (similar to Harrier's Sunlit Yellow) and copper, both available with black roof options.
Larger Battery, Improved Range: The main update here is the increased battery size. Previous models had 25 kWh and 35 kWh battery options. Now, the brand is providing a larger 40 kWh battery pack in the Long Range version, which is said to offer a range of 468 km according to ARAI, while the actual range exceeds 350 km on a single charge. Using a DC fast charger for 15 minutes can provide up to 135 km, and charging from 20% to 80% takes 26 minutes with a 65 kW charger.
Updated Tech Features Inside: Inside, there are newly designed air conditioning vents, fresh leatherette seats, and a glossy black console that brighten up the cabin. The touchscreen is now 10.25 inches and has a more user-friendly interface, accompanied by a 10.25-inch digital display, ventilated seating, wireless charging, and ambient lighting. A 360-degree camera and connected technology complete the features nicely.
Improved Safety Features: The safety features include six airbags as standard, high beam assistance, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, and mounts for ISOFIX child seats.
