Tata Motors is gearing up to introduce the Tata Punch EV in India soon, as evidenced by the recent sighting of a heavily camouflaged test mule being transported on a tow truck. Once launched, this electric micro-SUV will directly compete against the Citroen eC3, adding to the growing options in the market. Both vehicles are based on their internal combustion engine counterparts and share a pseudo-SUV design aesthetic, coupled with technologically advanced interiors.
Tata Motors, with an impressive market share of over 87%, stands as India’s largest EV manufacturer. The company has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) segment in the country. As a result, other automakers are diligently striving to catch up, particularly in the entry-level segment. However, with the upcoming Tata Punch EV, the competition is set to intensify even further.
The Citroen eC3 boasts a distinctive design philosophy characterized by a sculpted bonnet, bumper-mounted headlights, split-type DRLs, a front-fender mounted charging port, a sleek black grille, roof rails, wrap-around taillights, and stylish 15-inch alloy wheels.
In contrast, the forthcoming Tata Punch EV will feature a clamshell bonnet, a closed-off grille with EV badging, tasteful blue-colored accents, bumper-mounted projector headlamps, flared wheel arches, and eye-catching alloy wheels.
Powering the Citroen eC3 is a 57hp/143Nm electric motor paired with a 29.2kWh battery pack, offering an impressive range of up to 320km on a single charge. While Tata Motors has yet to disclose specific technical details for the Tata Punch EV, it is expected to employ a capable all-electric powertrain, potentially borrowing from the successful Nexon EV. The estimated range for the Tata Punch EV falls within the range of 250-300km.
Moving to the interiors, the Citroen eC3 provides a spacious five-seater cabin adorned with a quirky dual-tone dashboard, manual AC controls with rear vents, a digital instrument cluster, a 10.0-inch infotainment panel with wireless connectivity options, and enhanced safety with six airbags. The Tata Punch EV is likely to retain the roomy cabin of its internal combustion engine counterpart while incorporating a minimalist dashboard design complemented by elegant blue accents. Additional features may include a cooled glovebox, automatic climate control, and Tata’s iRA connected car technology.
In terms of pricing, the Citroen eC3 is available in India within the price range of Rs. 11.5 lakh to Rs. 12.13 lakh (ex-showroom). As for the anticipated pricing of the upcoming Tata Punch EV, it is expected to be around Rs. 12 lakh (ex-showroom), providing customers with an attractive option in the electric micro-SUV segment.
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