Tata Motors recently unveiled its first electric vehicle based on the popular Punch mini SUV. The Tata Punch EV promises to bring a lot more to the table compared to its petrol-powered sibling. Here are the top 10 features that set the electric variant apart:
Improved Acceleration & Torque Delivery
The permanent magnet synchronous electric motor in the Punch EV produces 61 horsepower and 110Nm of instant torque. This results in zappy acceleration, especially at low speeds, allowing the EV to dash from 0-60 kph in a claimed 5.5 seconds. The petrol engine produces 86 horsepower and 113 nm, but it is slower off the line.The petrol engine makes 86hp and 113Nm by comparison but is slower off the line.
Bigger Battery Pack
The Tata Punch EV is equipped with a high-capacity 26 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which allows it to travel up to 370km on a single charge based on the MIDC testing cycle. The standard petrol model does not feature any batteries and has to rely solely on its fuel tank capacity for range between refills.
Faster Charging Capability
With support for fast charging capability, the battery pack in the Tata Punch EV can juice up from 10-80% in under 60 minutes. The internal combustion engine variant cannot be refueled that rapidly and relies on the existing fueling infrastructure.
Almost Silent Cabin
Since the Punch EV relies completely on its electric motor for propulsion, the cabin is almost eerily silent. This allows passengers to have easy conversations without raising their voices even at higher speeds. The petrol variant features a noisier cabin, especially when pushing the engine hard.
Improved Drive Dynamics
The Tata Punch EV features an extremely low center of gravity thanks to the location of its battery pack below the passenger compartment. This allows it better stability and more confidence-inspiring dynamics compared to the regular Punch.
Bigger Touchscreen Infotainment
The Tata Punch EV gets a free-standing 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone and smartwatch connectivity. In contrast, the petrol model makes do with a simpler 7-inch floating touch display with limited features.
Smartwatch Connected Driving Range Assistant
An interesting new feature in the Punch EV is its smartwatch connectivity which allows it to display key information like remaining charge, estimated driving range, charging status, etc directly to a connected smartwatch. The petrol variant lacks this functionality.
Smart Regen And One Pedal Driving Modes
The Tata Punch EV gets different driving modes including ‘Smart Regen’ which maximizes range by automatically adjusting the level of regenerative braking when you lift your foot off the accelerator. There is also a One Pedal driving mode that allows you to accelerate and slow down using just the accelerator. Neither of these functions is available in the regular Punch.
More Premium Colour Schemes
The Tata Punch EV is available in some exclusive color schemes like Teal Blue and Yellow that help it stand out. The regular Punch only features subtle single or dual-tone shades in comparison.
Bigger Warranty
Tata Motors is providing an industry-leading 8-year / 1.6 Lakh Kms (whichever is earlier) warranty with the Punch EV’s battery pack. The petrol model makes do with a 3 Year / 1 Lakh Km standard vehicle warranty. This provides additional peace of mind to potential EV buyers regarding the longevity of the battery pack.
Overall, the Tata Punch EV appears to be a massive upgrade over the regular petrol variant with a host of additional features specifically aimed at the needs of electric vehicle customers. This positions it as an exciting option for those looking to make the switch from fossil-fuel-powered cars.
