South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Company is preparing to launch a new compact electric SUV for the Indian market, aiming to challenge the growing dominance of Tata Punch EV in the entry-level EV segment.

The upcoming model will be designed, engineered, and manufactured in India, highlighting the company’s focus on strengthening its electric vehicle portfolio in the country.

Made-in-India EV for the compact SUV segment

According to the company, the new EV will be under four meters in length, placing it in the compact SUV category. The vehicle will be manufactured at Hyundai’s Hyundai Sriperumbudur Plant.

Hyundai also plans to use locally sourced batteries from Exide Industries, which will help reduce costs and improve localization of EV components in India.

Expected launch and platform

The new electric SUV, currently known by the codename HE1i, is expected to reach Indian roads by 2027.

Reports suggest the model could be based on the global Hyundai Inster EV and built on the E-GMP platform, Hyundai’s advanced electric vehicle architecture.

This platform supports 800-volt fast charging and could potentially deliver a driving range of more than 500 km, depending on the battery variant.

Battery options and performance

Globally, the Hyundai Inster EV is offered with two battery options:

• 42 kWh Standard Range battery – WLTP range of about 300 km

• 49 kWh Long Range battery – WLTP range of about 355 km

The Standard Range version uses an electric motor producing 97 bhp and 147 Nm of torque, while the Long Range version delivers 115 bhp and 147 Nm.

Similar powertrain options could be offered in the India-spec model.

Modern features and technology

Hyundai has confirmed that the upcoming compact EV will come equipped with Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) along with a modern infotainment system that supports OTA (over-the-air) software updates.

Expected features include:

• Dual-screen infotainment and digital cluster

• Automatic climate control

• 360-degree camera

• Blind-spot monitoring system

• Connected car technology

Hyundai’s EV expansion plan for India

Hyundai is also working on building a strong local EV supply chain, including domestic production of battery cells, electric powertrain components, and other key parts with Indian suppliers.

As part of its long-term strategy, the company plans to launch 26 new models in India by 2030. The roadmap includes:

• 4 new models by 2026

• 8 models during FY2027–2028

• 14 models between FY2029–2030