The Indian automotive industry is set to witness a major transformation, with three automotive giants—Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Tata Motors—all gearing up to unveil their highly anticipated subcompact electric SUVs. Tata Motors has already set its sights on launching the Punch EV later this year, marking a significant step in the company’s electric vehicle (EV) portfolio. Hyundai, on the other hand, is diligently testing the Exter EV, a promising addition to its EV lineup. Maruti Suzuki hadteased its upcoming electric vehicles earlier this year, offering a tantalizing glimpse into what lies ahead. Among these, the electric iteration of the Maruti Fronx micro SUV has garnered much attention, setting the stage for an electrifying competition in the subcompact EV segment. Here, we delve into the key details of these upcoming subcompact electric SUVs.
Upcoming Subcompact Electric SUVs
Tata Punch EV
The Tata Punch EV is set to make its debut during the 2023 festive season, likely in November. It will be equipped with Tata’s Ziptron electric powertrain, featuring a liquid-cooled battery and a permanent magnet synchronous motor. There are rumors that the Punch EV might share its powertrain with the Tiago EV, which offers two battery options: a 19.2kWh unit with a 74bhp electric motor and a 24kWh unit with a 61bhp electric motor. Similar to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, the electric Punch is expected to feature a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo and haptic touch controls. More details here…
Hyundai Exter EV
The Hyundai Exter EV is currently in its early testing phase and is expected to be launched in 2024. It will mark Hyundai’s entry into the mass-market electric vehicle segment and will compete directly with the Tata Punch EV. Reports suggest that the Exter EV could be equipped with a battery capacity ranging from 25kWh to 30kWh, offering a range of approximately 300 to 350km on a single charge. Some cosmetic changes are anticipated for the electric micro SUV, such as a closed-off grille. While the interior layout and features will closely resemble the ICE-powered Exter, there may be some EV-specific elements incorporated. More details here…
Maruti Fronx EV
Maruti Suzuki, the Indo-Japanese automaker, has announced plans to introduce six new battery electric vehicle models by FY30. The first Maruti Suzuki electric car will be an SUV, expected to debut in early 2025. A teaser image hints at the possibility of the upcoming Maruti electric car lineup including the WagonR EV, Baleno EV, Fronx EV, Grand Vitara EV, and Jimny EV. The company aims to achieve specific market share targets by FY30, with 60 percent in the domestic market for ICE-powered models, 25 percent for hybrid vehicles, and 15 percent for upcoming electric cars. More details here…
