Tata Punch.ev

Tata Punch EV is a popular electric compact SUV in India, known for its features, safety ratings and range. The price of the Punch EV starts at Rs.9.99 lakh for the base variant and goes up to Rs.14.44 lakh ex-showroom, for the top the variant.

From the exterior, the Punch EV retains the familiar silhouette of its ICE counterpart but introduces several distinctive design elements that clearly mark it as an electric vehicle and give it a more premium and modern appeal.

The most noticeable change is the redesigned, blanked-off grille, which is a characteristics of EVs. This contributes to better aerodynamics. The charging flap is neatly integrated into the center of the grille, behind the illuminated Tata logo. This is a convenient location and differentiates it from other Tata EVs like the Nexon EV, which have the charging port on the fender. 

A sleek, full-width LED light bar runs across the bonnet, connecting the two LED DRLs (Daytime Running Light) units. These DRLs often feature cool sequential turn indicators and welcome/goodbye animations, adding a premium touch. 

The main headlamps are now LED projector units and are positioned lower on the bumper in a vertically stacked cluster, giving it a more sophisticated look. Higher variants of the Punch is provided with LED fog lamps, which also offer a cornering function for improved visibility.The front bumper is designed to accommodate the new lighting setup and often features a prominent silver skid plate at the bottom, enhancing its SUV appeal.

From the side, the Punch EV largely retains the recognizable compact SUV silhouette of the ICE Punch, including the high beltline and pillar mounted rear door handles. Subtle "EV" badging provided on the front doors distinguishes it as an electric model. 15 inch steel wheels with covers is provided on the lower variants where as 16 inch alloy wheels are provided higher variants. These diamond cut alloy wheels are designed aerodynamically to reduce drag and thereby to improve the range of the vehicle.

Thick black cladding around the wheel arches and along the side sills adds to its rugged, SUV like stance. Depending on the variant, the outside rear view mirrors come with electric adjustment and folding functions, often with integrated turn indicators. Roof rails provided on higher variants are also enhancing its SUV stance.

The signature Y-shaped LED tail lamps are carried over from the ICE Punch, giving it a distinct rear light signature. The tailgate features prominent "PUNCH.EV" lettering, clearly identifying it as the electric variant. The bumper is slightly revised, often incorporating a silver skid plate mirrors the front. Shark-fin antenna is provided on the roof of higher variants. The roof-mounted spoiler adds a sporty touch and aids in aerodynamics.

Dimensions:

• Length: 3857 mm
• Width: 1742 mm
• Height: 1633 mm
• Wheelbase: 2445 mm
• Ground Clearance ( unladen): 190 mm
• Boot Space: 366 Liters

Overall, the Tata Punch EV's exterior successfully blends the robust appeal of a micro-SUV with futuristic EV design cues, giving it a fresh and distinctive road presence compared to its petrol counterpart.

The Tata Punch EV's interior is a significant upgrade over its ICE counterpart, featuring a modern and feature-rich cabin. It is provided with a dual-tone black and white (or grey) theme, which contributes to an airy and premium feel. The dashboard has a multi-layered design, integrating the AC vents seamlessly. The overall design is futuristic, with a focus on digital elements and sleek controls. While mostly plastic, the material used are generally of good and don't feel cheap.

Key Features and Technology:

Infotainment System: A prominent 10.25-inch touch screen infotainment system takes center stage, supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It comes with Tata's Arcade.ev app suite, allowing access to various OTT applications and games when the car is parked. The system is integrated with multiple voice assistance like Hey Tata, Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant. JBL surroung system is provided on higher variants.

Digital Driver's Display: A 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster provides all essential driving information like range, speed, driving mode, battery level and more. It can also sync with the infotainment system to display maps from Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is a premium feature for this segment.

Steering Wheel: The steering wheel features Tata's new 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo. It has integrated controls for the infotainment system, digital driver's display, and cruise control. Paddle shifters are also provided to adjust the levels of regenerative braking on the go.

Climate Control and Comfort: Automatic climate control with a "Phygital control panel ( a mix of physical buttons and touch controls.) is provided. Ventilated front seats are provided on higher variants. Air purifier with AQI (Air Quality Index) display and cooled glove box are also available.

Sunroof: A single-pane electric sunroof  is available on higher variants. It can be operated with voice commands (including Hinglish).

Drive Mode Selector: A stylish jeweled rotary drive mode selector with an integrated display and buttons for Sport and Economy Drive modes are also present.

Seating & Space: Top variants are provided with dual-tone leatherette upholstery. Height adjustable driver seat is provided. Front seats are wide and offer good cushioning and side support. Higher variants are provided with ventilated seats. Rear seat is also offering decent legroom and under-thigh support for average sized adults. However it is best suited for two passengers, with the middle passenger feeling a bit cramped due to the central bulge and lack of a dedicated headrest. Rear center arm rest is also available. 90-degree opening doors make ingress and egress easier.

Storage: 366 liters of boot space is available in rear, additionally 14 liters of "frunk" (front trunk)  is provided under the bonnet, is ideal for keeping charging cables or small bags. All doors are provided with 1 liter bottle holders. Two small cup holders are provided at the front, there is a storage spaces in the center arm rest too. The wireless phone charger doubles as a tray is also a nice feature.

Battery and Range

The Tata Punch EV comes with two main battery pack options, both of which are Lithium-Ion batteries. These batteries are liquid-cooled and have an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, providing durability and safety.

Medium Range Battery Pack:

• Capacity: 25kWh
• Claimed Range: 315km
• Motor Output: 80.46 bhp (60 kW) power and 114Nm torque

Long Range Battery Pack:

• Capacity: 35kWh
• Claimed Range: 421km
• Motor Output: 120.69 bhp (90 kW) power and 190Nm torque

The real world range for the LR variant is often reported to be around 300-315km with AC on.

Tata Motors offers an 8-years or 1,60,000 km warranty on the battery pack, whichever comes first, covering manufacturing defects, performance issues, and significant degradation.

The Punch with a variety of charging options- from slow home charging to rapid public charging. Here is the breakdown of the charger types and associated charging times:

DC Fast Charging (50kW): 10-80% in approximately 56 minutes for both battery packs.

AC Charging (7.2kW):

• 25kWh variant: 10-100% in about 3.6 hours
• 35kWh variant: 10-100% in about 5 hours

It also supports regular 15A plug point charging (10-100% in around 9.5 hours for the 35kWh battery).

Safety Features

Tata Punch EV is one of the safest cars in its segment, having achieved 5-star safety rating in both Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection from Bharat NCAP. In fact, it achieved one of the highest scores ever recorded by Bharat NCAP. Some of the key safety features are giving below.

• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Program
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Hill Hold Assist
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Rear Parking Sesnors
• IP67 Battery Pack and Motor
• Seat Belt Reminder
• Pedestrian Protection System

Higher variant includes

• All 4 Disc Brakes
• 360-Degree Surround View Camera
• Blind Spot View Monitor
• Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
• SOS Calling Function
• Hill Descent Control
• Rain Sensing Wipers
• Auto-Dimming IRVM,etc and more

Overall, the Tata Punch EV is a compelling package for those looking for a compact, feature-rich, and safe electric SUV, primarily suited for urban and occasional intercity travel.

Note: All images used in this blog has been taken from Manufacturer's website for a general information.