Tata has launched the updated version of its most affordable electric SUV, the Punch EV. Priced from Rs 9.69 lakh (ex-showroom), the facelift brings subtle design revisions but, most importantly, larger battery packs with a higher claimed range. In this article, we explain all the differences between the new and old models of the Punch EV.
Tata Punch EV new vs old: Powertrain options
Facelift gets bigger battery packs with more range
While the older model was offered with 25kWh and 35kWh battery packs, the new Punch EV receives 30kWh and 40kWh options. The front-mounted motors in the 30kWh and 40kWh variants now produce 88hp and 129hp, respectively. However, the new 40kWh Punch EV produces 36Nm lower torque than the older model’s 35kWh version.
The facelift’s claimed range figures are significantly higher. The 30kWh version boasts 110km additional range over the predecessor’s 25kWh version, and the 40kWh pack offers 103km more than the erstwhile 35kWh variants. Tata states that the motor features a new compact design, which compensates for the additional weight gained by larger battery packs.
Tata Punch EV new vs old: Charging options
Now supports 65kW DC fast charging
The new Punch EV retains its predecessor’s AC charging speed support of up to 7.2kW but now offers increased DC charging support of up to 65kW. Consequently, the new model charges much faster on DC chargers than the previous version.
Tata Punch EV new vs old: Exterior
The rear sees the most design changes
Tata has subtly revised the Punch EV’s exterior. Gone is the connected LED light bar, and the facelift now features LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) at the edges. The black strip on the bumper has also been done away with for a cleaner look, and the lower chin area has been redesigned with a new silver faux skid plate. The side profile remains largely similar, except for a ‘tata.ev’ badge on the lower part of the front doors.
The rear end is where most of the design changes have occurred. It now looks identical to that of the ICE-powered Punch, featuring a connected LED tail-light setup and a new bumper design. While dimensions remain mostly unchanged, the facelift, with a ground clearance of 195mm, sits 5mm higher than the previous model.
Tata Punch EV new vs old: Interior
Retains the predecessor’s cabin with minor feature additions
The interior of the new Punch EV is identical to that of the previous model. It features a dual-tone theme for the cabin and seat upholstery. It retains the two-spoke steering wheel, touch-based HVAC controls and 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster. New feature additions include over-the-air (OTA) updates, voice commands supporting six languages and smartwatch connectivity.
Tata Punch EV new vs old: Safety
Gets a new high beam alert feature
The new Punch’s safety kit is similar to the previous model’s, comprising six airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, a 360-degree camera, a blind-view monitor, hill-hold assist, rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror (IRVM) and hill-descent control. What’s new is a high beam alert feature that notifies the driver to lower headlight beams in well-lit city conditions to avoid blinding oncoming drivers at speeds of up to 40kph. While the new Punch EV is yet to be tested by BNCAP for crash safety, the previous model had a 5-star rating.