The Tata Punch EV, launched by Tata Motors in January 2024, stands as a testament to the Indian automaker’s commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility. Positioned as an electric micro-SUV, this vehicle blends the rugged charm of its petrol-powered sibling, the Tata Punch, with cutting-edge electric technology. Designed to cater to urban commuters and eco-conscious buyers, the Punch EV brings a bold design, advanced features, and impressive safety credentials to the table. With a starting price of ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes in a growing segment of affordable electric vehicles (EVs) in India, making it an attractive option for those transitioning from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs.
Tata Motors has leveraged its expertise in the EV space—evident in models like the Nexon EV and Tiago EV—to craft the Punch EV as a versatile, compact SUV suited for city driving and occasional out-of-town trips. Built on the actEV platform, a dedicated architecture for electric vehicles, the Punch EV promises enhanced efficiency, safety, and performance. Its sleek design, five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, and a range of up to 421 km make it a standout in its category. This product detail overview dives deep into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and a comprehensive analysis of its features, positioning it against close competitors like the Citroen eC3, Tata Tiago EV, and MG Comet EV.
Technical Specifications
Below is a detailed tabular representation of the Tata Punch EV’s technical specifications, sourced from credible platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale. These specs reflect the two battery pack options available—25 kWh and 35 kWh—and highlight the car’s engineering prowess.
| Parameter | 25 kWh Variant (Medium Range) | 35 kWh Variant (Long Range) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 25 kWh | 35 kWh |
| Electric Motor Power | 80.46 bhp (60 kW) | 120.69 bhp (90 kW) |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Claimed Range (ARAI) | 315 km | 421 km |
| Real-World Range | ~200-250 km | ~300-350 km |
| Transmission | Single-speed Automatic | Single-speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Charging Time (10-100%) | 3.6 hours (3.3 kW AC) | 5 hours (7.2 kW AC) |
| Fast Charging (10-80%) | 56 minutes (50 kW DC) | 56 minutes (50 kW DC) |
| Battery Type | Liquid-cooled, IP67-rated | Liquid-cooled, IP67-rated |
| Length | 3857 mm | 3857 mm |
| Width | 1742 mm | 1742 mm |
| Height | 1633 mm | 1633 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2445 mm | 2445 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 190 mm | 190 mm |
| Boot Space | 366 liters | 366 liters |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Tyre Size | 185/70 R15 (Base variants) | 195/60 R16 (Higher variants) |
| Suspension (Front) | Independent MacPherson Strut | Independent MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc/Drum | Disc/Drum |
| Regenerative Braking | 3 levels (via paddle shifters) | 3 levels (via paddle shifters) |
| Top Speed | ~140 kmph | ~140 kmph |
These specifications showcase the Punch EV’s adaptability to different driving needs, with the 25 kWh variant catering to budget-conscious buyers and the 35 kWh variant appealing to those seeking extended range and performance.
Variants
The Tata Punch EV is offered in a diverse lineup of 20 variants, ensuring buyers can choose a model that fits their budget and feature preferences. These variants are broadly categorized into five personas—Smart, Smart Plus, Adventure, Empowered, and Empowered Plus—with additional sub-variants based on battery size and charging options. Below is a table summarizing the key variants and their ex-showroom prices as of March 23, 2025.
| Variant | Battery Size | Ex-Showroom Price (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Smart | 25 kWh | 9.99 |
| Smart Plus | 25 kWh | 10.49 |
| Adventure | 25 kWh | 11.84 |
| Adventure S | 25 kWh | 11.99 |
| Empowered | 25 kWh | 12.49 |
| Empowered Plus | 25 kWh | 12.84 |
| Adventure LR | 35 kWh | 12.84 |
| Adventure S LR | 35 kWh | 13.14 |
| Empowered LR | 35 kWh | 13.44 |
| Empowered Plus LR | 35 kWh | 13.79 |
| Empowered Plus S LR AC FC | 35 kWh | 14.44 |
Note: “LR” denotes Long Range, “S” indicates sunroof, and “AC FC” refers to fast-charging capability with a 7.2 kW AC charger (optional at ₹50,000 extra). Prices are subject to change based on location and dealership offers.
Price in Metro Cities
The on-road price of the Tata Punch EV varies across metro cities due to differences in registration charges (RTO), insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices for select variants in major Indian metro cities as of March 23, 2025, sourced from CarDekho and CarWale.
| City | Smart (₹ Lakh) | Empowered Plus (₹ Lakh) | Empowered Plus S LR AC FC (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | 10.45 | 13.47 | 15.13 |
| Mumbai | 10.67 | 13.72 | 15.41 |
| Bangalore | 10.73 | 13.80 | 15.50 |
| Chennai | 10.62 | 13.65 | 15.33 |
| Kolkata | 10.55 | 13.58 | 15.25 |
These prices include ex-showroom cost, RTO charges, insurance, and additional fees but exclude any discounts or incentives offered by dealerships or government EV subsidies, which could lower the final cost.
About the Tata Punch EV
Design and Aesthetics
The Tata Punch EV inherits the rugged, muscular stance of its petrol counterpart but introduces a modern, EV-specific design language inspired by the Tata Nexon EV. The front fascia features sleek, connected LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and split headlamps, giving it a premium and futuristic appeal. The closed-off grille, a hallmark of electric vehicles, enhances aerodynamics while maintaining a bold road presence. Available in five dual-tone color options—Empowered Oxide, Seaweed, Fearless Red, Daytona Grey, and Pristine White—the Punch EV caters to diverse aesthetic preferences.
The side profile retains the chunky cladding and high ground clearance of 190 mm, making it adept at tackling uneven roads and speed breakers common in Indian cities. The rear sports sharp LED tail lamps and a compact design, ensuring it remains practical for tight urban parking spaces. Higher variants come equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication, while base models get 15-inch steel wheels with covers.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Tata Punch EV, and you’re greeted by a cabin that balances functionality with modernity. The interior design mirrors Tata’s newer EV offerings, featuring a dual-tone dashboard, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system (in higher variants), and a 7-inch digital driver display. The quality of materials is a step up from the petrol Punch, with soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics that elevate the overall feel.
Seating is comfortable for four adults, though fitting three at the rear can be snug for long journeys due to limited shoulder room. The front seats offer good support, and higher variants include a height-adjustable driver’s seat for better ergonomics. Rear passengers benefit from AC vents, a USB port, and a foldable armrest, enhancing comfort on longer drives. The 366-liter boot space is generous for a sub-4-meter SUV, easily accommodating weekend luggage, though it lacks a spare wheel, relying instead on a puncture repair kit—a common trait in EVs to maximize space.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Tata Punch EV offers two powertrain options tailored to different needs. The 25 kWh battery pack delivers 80.46 bhp and 114 Nm of torque, making it ideal for city commutes with its peppy acceleration and nimble handling. The 35 kWh Long Range variant, with 120.69 bhp and 190 Nm, adds more punch, excelling in quick overtakes and highway cruising. Both variants feature three drive modes—Eco, City, and Sport—allowing drivers to tweak performance based on their preferences.
The instant torque delivery, a hallmark of electric motors, ensures a refined and silent driving experience, with minimal noise except for a faint motor whine. The regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, offers three levels of intensity, helping recover energy and extend range. With a real-world range of 200-250 km (25 kWh) and 300-350 km (35 kWh), the Punch EV suits daily commutes and moderate intercity travel, though range anxiety may creep in for longer trips without proper charging infrastructure.
The suspension setup—MacPherson strut at the front and twist beam at the rear—strikes a balance between comfort and stability, soaking up most road imperfections while maintaining composure at higher speeds. The 190 mm ground clearance aids in navigating rough patches, a boon in metro cities with inconsistent road quality. However, the steering, while light and easy in city traffic, lacks the sharpness some enthusiasts might desire on twisty roads.
Features and Technology
The Punch EV is packed with features that elevate its appeal in the sub-₹15 lakh segment. Base variants (Smart and Smart Plus) offer essentials like automatic climate control, power windows, and a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. Mid-tier Adventure variants add a sunroof, cruise control, and push-button start, while the top-spec Empowered and Empowered Plus trims bring premium touches like a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and connected car tech via the iRA app.
Safety is a strong suit, with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating across all variants. Standard safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and a rear parking camera. Higher trims add six airbags, electronic stability program (ESP), and hill hold assist, making it one of the safest options in its class. However, the absence of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) might disappoint some tech-savvy buyers, especially when competitors like the MG Comet EV offer rudimentary autonomous features.
Charging and Running Costs
Charging convenience is a key consideration for EV buyers, and the Punch EV addresses this with multiple options. The standard 3.3 kW AC charger (wall box) takes 3.6 to 5 hours for a full charge, depending on the battery size, while the optional 7.2 kW AC charger reduces this time slightly. For quick top-ups, the 50 kW DC fast charger can take the battery from 10% to 80% in just 56 minutes, ideal for roadside charging stations.
Running costs are a highlight, with an estimated cost of ₹0.79 per km (assuming ₹10 per unit electricity and 60 km daily usage), significantly lower than petrol or diesel counterparts. Maintenance is minimal due to fewer moving parts, and Tata offers free labor for the first three services, with subsequent services every 6 months or 7,500 km. The battery and motor come with an 8-year or 1,60,000 km warranty, while the vehicle warranty is 3 years or 1,25,000 km, extendable by up to two years (excluding battery/motor).
Market Positioning and User Feedback
The Tata Punch EV enters a competitive segment where affordability, range, and features are critical. Priced between ₹9.99 lakh and ₹14.44 lakh (ex-showroom), it commands a premium over the petrol Punch (₹6.20 lakh onwards) but aligns with larger EVs like the Tata Nexon EV (₹12.49 lakh onwards). Its micro-SUV form factor appeals to buyers seeking a compact yet versatile vehicle, while its electric powertrain taps into the growing demand for green mobility.
User reviews from platforms like CarDekho and ZigWheels praise its safety, range, and value for money, with many appreciating the smooth and silent ride. However, some owners report inconsistent real-world range (especially in hilly terrain or with AC on), software glitches in the infotainment system, and Tata’s historically patchy service experience as drawbacks. The Punch EV’s popularity is evident, with strong sales figures contributing to Tata’s dominance in India’s EV market.
Close Competitors
The Tata Punch EV faces competition from both direct rivals and alternatives in adjacent price brackets. Here’s a detailed comparison with its closest contenders:
Citroen eC3
- Price: ₹11.61 lakh – ₹13.92 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Battery: 29.2 kWh
- Range: 320 km (ARAI), ~250 km real-world
- Power: 56 bhp, 143 Nm
- Features: 10-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, manual AC
- Pros: Quirky design, decent range, competitive pricing
- Cons: Lower power output, basic feature set, no fast-charging option standard
The Citroen eC3 is the Punch EV’s most direct rival, targeting the same compact electric SUV buyer. While it offers a similar range, its weaker motor and fewer features make the Punch EV a more compelling choice for performance and tech enthusiasts. The Citroen’s French styling stands out, but its build quality and safety ratings (unrated by NCAP) lag behind.
Tata Tiago EV
- Price: ₹7.99 lakh – ₹11.14 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Battery: 19.2 kWh / 24 kWh
- Range: 250 km / 315 km (ARAI), ~200-250 km real-world
- Power: 60 bhp / 74 bhp, 110 Nm / 114 Nm
- Features: 7-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, dual airbags
- Pros: Affordable entry price, compact size, Tata reliability
- Cons: Smaller boot, less premium interior, lower ground clearance
The Tata Tiago EV, a hatchback, serves as a budget-friendly alternative from the same brand. It’s ideal for city dwellers with limited parking space but lacks the Punch EV’s SUV stance, ground clearance, and feature richness. The Punch EV justifies its higher price with better range and safety.
MG Comet EV
- Price: ₹6.99 lakh – ₹9.53 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Battery: 17.3 kWh
- Range: 230 km (ARAI), ~180-200 km real-world
- Power: 41 bhp, 110 Nm
- Features: 10.25-inch dual screens, connected tech, ADAS Level 1
- Pros: Ultra-compact, tech-loaded, low cost
- Cons: Limited range, 2+2 seating, minimal boot space
The MG Comet EV targets a niche audience with its tiny footprint and futuristic tech. While cheaper and feature-packed, its limited range and seating capacity make it less practical than the Punch EV for families or longer trips. The Punch EV offers a more traditional SUV experience.
Tata Nexon EV (Creative Plus MR)
- Price: ₹12.49 lakh onwards (ex-showroom)
- Battery: 30 kWh
- Range: 325 km (ARAI), ~250-300 km real-world
- Power: 127 bhp, 215 Nm
- Features: 12.3-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera
- Pros: Larger size, superior power, premium features
- Cons: Higher price, overlaps with Punch EV’s top variants
The Tata Nexon EV, a larger compact SUV, appeals to buyers willing to stretch their budget for more space and power. While it outshines the Punch EV in performance and luxury, the latter’s micro-SUV size and lower entry price make it more accessible for urban buyers.
Final Thoughts!
The Tata Punch EV is a well-rounded electric vehicle that combines affordability, safety, and practicality in a compact package. With its two battery options, extensive variant lineup, and competitive pricing (starting at ₹9.99 lakh), it caters to a wide audience—from first-time EV buyers to families seeking a secondary city car. Its 5-star safety rating, modern design, and feature-rich cabin set it apart in a crowded market, though it’s not without flaws like range variability and service concerns.
Against competitors like the Citroen eC3, Tata Tiago EV, MG Comet EV, and Tata Nexon EV, the Punch EV strikes a sweet spot for those prioritizing a blend of SUV utility and electric efficiency. Whether zipping through metro traffic or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Tata Punch EV delivers a compelling case for itself as India’s go-to micro electric SUV in 2025.
