Earlier this year, Hyundai revealed its plan to launch six new electric vehicles (EVs) by 2028. The company also plans to invest Rs 4,000 crore in its EV product portfolio, covering all ranges of EVs – from dedicated EV skateboard-based models to ICE-derived EVs. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, currently on sale in India, underpins the brand’s E-GMP platform. However, the carmaker intends to focus on smaller cars. In fact, Hyundai has confirmed that it will consider a dedicated EV facility as the volume increases. Initially, Hyundai’s Tamil Nadu-based plant will serve as the manufacturing base for the upcoming electric vehicles.
In addition to this, the company aims to install 100 EV charging stations across major cities and highways in the next five years. The plan includes 85 single fast charging stations (DC 60kW), 10 single fast charging stations (DC 150kW), and 5 dual ultra-fast charging stations (DC 150kW + DC 60kW).
As we reported earlier, Hyundai Motor India plans to introduce its Made-in-India EV sometime in 2024. The recent sighting of the Hyundai Exter EV prototype hints that it could be the one. The micro SUV will be the first mass-market electric car from the South Korean automaker in India, competing against the Tata Punch EV. It is too early to comment on its battery pack and range, but a media report suggests that the Hyundai Exter EV could be offered with a battery pack of around 25-30kWh and provide a range of around 300km – 350km.
A few EV-specific changes are expected to be made to its exterior and interior. The Exter EV is likely to come with a closed-off front grille with blue accents here and there. The interior layout and features will be similar to its ICE-powered counterpart.
Regarding pricing, the new Hyundai Exter EV is expected to be priced competitively against the Tata Punch EV. The micro SUV’s ICE-powered version is currently available within the price range of Rs 6 lakh – Rs 10 lakh. Its S and SX CNG variants cost Rs 8.24 lakh and Rs 8.97 lakh, respectively. All mentioned prices are ex-showroom.
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