Tata Motors is trying to beef up its EV range in the face of new competitors in the entry-level EV category. The company's approach of launching electrified versions of its successful ICE models has paid off. Tata Punch is the fourth model to receive the EV treatment, following Nexon, Tiago, and Tigor.
Nexon and Punch have been Tata's key volume generators. While Nexon has passed the 5-lakh production mark, Punch has recently passed the 2-lakh production mark. With Punch's growing popularity, it seems like the ideal moment to release an electric version. Punch will also soon have a CNG alternative.
Recently, a test mule of Punch Electric was spotted aboard a tow truck by Rohit Prakash Sharma (@Photulogy). The Punch EV has the same exterior profile as the Punch ICE variant, which is made clear by the tightly-fitting camouflage. The alloy wheels are even the same as on the ICE Punch. This configuration reduces the number of changes required to convert an ICE-powered vehicle to an electric one.
Punch Electric could get some new features like the test mule had rear disc brakes. In comparison, the petrol Punch has front disc and rear drum brakes. The fact that an inside rotary dial is present suggests that the EV might have an electronic parking brake.
The electric model can be seen with a floating 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It is most likely from Harman and will support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. ICE-like features include a 7-inch TFT instrument display, automatic climate control, a flat bottom steering wheel, and premium leather.
Punch Electric's safety features will be much the same as those of its ICE sister. A reverse parking camera, front fog lamps with cornering function, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, ABS and EBD with brake sway control, and rear defogger are among the essential safety features available with Punch.
While no official information is available, Punch Electric may have a range of 300 kilometres. Punch Electric will most likely have Eco, City, and Sport drive modes while the battery packs comparable to those used in Tiago EV could be used. The Tata Punch EV is expected to go on sale in India by the end of this year or in early 2024.
