Mentally, making the full switch from an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle to an electric vehicle (EV) can be challenging. Whether it’s the extended driving range, the convenience of refueling, the familiarity of the engine sound, or the overall driving experience—there’s a long list of reasons why ICE vehicles still hold an appeal. On the flip side, EV buyers often grapple with range anxiety, limited charging infrastructure, concerns about battery longevity, and even worries about resale value. Can the Tata Punch EV change this perception? How effective will it be for daily commutes? Will it present any challenges on long journeys? Could it serve as the primary family car? These are some of the questions that will be explored through our upcoming long-term reports, delving into the strengths and weaknesses of this new electric model.
The Specs
Before diving into the details, let’s introduce the Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S long-range variant in Seawood Green. This deeper shade adds a touch of sophistication, subtly hiding the car’s compact proportions while still retaining its SUV-like stance. The understated elegance of this color truly comes to life under direct sunlight, giving the vehicle a distinctive glow. Its bold LED daytime running lights (DRLs) take some getting used to, but the dual-tone design, alloy wheels, roof rails, detailed tail lamps, and skid plates all contribute to its stylish, well-rounded aesthetic.
On the inside, the Tata Punch EV offers a light white-grey interior—a rare feature for small cars in the Indian market. While maintaining this bright, clean look might prove challenging, it certainly elevates the car’s premium feel. Complementing the minimalist interior are black and grey accents, adding to its upscale appeal. The sleek infotainment screen, paired with an instrument cluster featuring integrated maps, further enhances the car’s tech-savvy image. Packed with advanced features, the top-spec Empowered Plus S model truly lives up to its name. How well these features translate into daily convenience is something we’ll be evaluating in the coming weeks.
Performance and Range
The Punch EV is more than just a standard electric vehicle—it’s powered by a robust 35kWh battery pack, unlike the typical 25kWh units seen in other models. Tata claims the vehicle can cover up to 421km on a single charge, which should be more than enough for most daily commutes. In addition, the Punch EV is equipped with a powerful electric motor, delivering 120bhp and 190Nm of torque, compared to the mid-range’s 80bhp and 114Nm. The car accelerates from 0 to 100kmph in a swift 9.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 140kmph, ensuring a smooth and speedy drive.
To make charging more convenient, the Punch EV supports two different options: a 7.2kW fast home charger and a 50kW DC fast charger. The latter can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in under an hour, making it a practical solution for those on the go.
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks, the Punch EV will be put to the test in Mumbai’s infamous traffic, coupled with the additional challenges of monsoon-damaged, pothole-filled roads. We also plan to push its limits with a highway journey, where we will experience firsthand the availability and efficiency of public charging infrastructure. Our goal is to share an in-depth, comprehensive experience of living with the Punch EV.
Product Details
- Make: Tata
- Model: Punch EV
- Trim: Empowered Plus S long-range
- Fuel: Electric
- Kilometres this month: NA
- Fuel efficiency: NA
- Price when tested: Rs. 16.51 lakh (On-Road, Mumbai)
Stay tuned for detailed reports on how well the Tata Punch EV performs across various conditions, and whether it has what it takes to change the minds of ICE loyalists.