Mentally, I’ve found it challenging to fully transition from an internal combustion engine (ICE) car to an electric vehicle (EV). Whether it’s the longer driving range, convenience of fuel stations, quicker refueling times, or just the familiar driving experience, the hesitation remains. On the other hand, EV buyers face concerns like range anxiety, limited charging infrastructure, battery longevity, and even resale value. Can the Tata Punch EV help shift this perspective? How practical is it for daily commuting? Could it handle a long trip or even serve as the only car for a family? These are the key questions we’ll be exploring in our upcoming long-term review, as we dive into its features and performance.
The Specs
Before diving into the driving experience, let’s first introduce the Empowered Plus S long-range variant of the Tata Punch EV in Seawood Green. It’s one of the darker hues, subtly masking the car’s compact yet SUV-like proportions. I must admit, I’m a fan of its understated elegance, especially when it gleams under sunlight. The LED DRLs at the front take some getting used to, but the dual-tone paint, matching alloy wheels, roof rails, and well-crafted tail lamps give it a distinct, handsome look.
On the inside, the light white-grey interiors are still something of a novelty in the Indian market. I anticipate that getting accustomed to it might be trickier than actually keeping it clean, but we’ll see. The neat and clean finish, paired with black and grey accents, gives the cabin a premium, upscale feel. Add to that the sleek infotainment system and the instrument cluster with integrated maps, and the Punch EV certainly looks and feels like a modern, tech-savvy vehicle. This top-spec variant truly lives up to its “Empowered” tag with all the advanced features packed into it. But just how practical is it in everyday life? We’re about to find out.
Electric, Empowered, and Long-Range
The Punch EV doesn’t stick to the standard 25kWh battery pack; instead, it’s equipped with a 35kWh unit that promises a range of up to 421km on a single charge. Moreover, it boasts an upgraded output of 120bhp and 190Nm of torque, compared to the mid-range version’s 80bhp and 114Nm. The car’s 0-100kmph sprint is claimed to take just 9.5 seconds, and I’d believe it based on its quick start and overall performance, with a top speed of 140kmph.
As for charging, the Punch EV offers two options: a 7.2kW fast home charger and a 50kW DC fast charger, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in under an hour. This kind of charging flexibility should make life a bit easier for EV owners, especially those on the go.
What’s Next?
Naturally, the Punch EV will face the real-world test of navigating Mumbai’s infamous traffic, particularly during the monsoon season when pothole-ridden roads are at their worst. We also plan to push its limits by taking it on a highway journey, scouting for public charging stations, and sharing our experiences along the way. Stay tuned as we uncover how the Tata Punch EV holds up against the daily grind and the challenges of long-distance travel.