Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S

Buying a new car in India is a big decision. You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, how much it will cost to maintain every month, and if it has all the latest features. And of course, how good is the company service from the manufacturer? When it comes to electric vehicles, these questions become even more important, as EVs are a relatively new concept for many.

Today, we are taking a deep dive into one of the most exciting new electric cars on the block: the new Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S. Tata Motors has been a leader in the Indian EV space, and the Punch EV aims to continue that legacy, offering a compelling package for prospective car buyers looking for a modern, safe, and efficient electric SUV.

Main Highlights of Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S

Design Overview

Exterior

The Tata Punch EV looks distinct and modern, clearly setting it apart from its petrol counterpart. It carries the signature EV design elements seen in newer Tata electric cars. You get a sharp, connected LED light bar across the front, sleek LED DRLs daytime running lights, and a closed-off grille which is typical for electric vehicles. The aggressive bumper design and sporty alloy wheels give it a strong SUV stance, making it look robust and appealing on Indian roads. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate city traffic, while its SUV-like presence gives you confidence.

Interior

Step inside the Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S, and you are greeted by a premium and tech-loaded cabin. The dual-tone interior theme looks rich, and the overall fit and finish feel impressive for its segment. The highlight is the large floating infotainment screen and the digital driver display, which provides all necessary information clearly. The steering wheel is a new two-spoke design with an illuminated Tata logo, adding a touch of class. Seats are comfortable, and there is ample space for a small family, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and weekend trips.

Key Features

The Empowered Plus S variant is the top-of-the-line offering, packed with features to enhance your driving experience. Here are some notable ones:

• Large 10.25-inch Infotainment Screen: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly.
• 10.25-inch Digital Driver Display: Customizable and shows vital driving information.
• Electric Sunroof: A highly sought-after feature in India, adding to the premium feel.
• 360-degree Surround View Camera: Makes parking and navigating tight spots much easier.
• Wireless Phone Charger: Convenient for keeping your devices charged on the go.
• Ventilated Front Seats: A blessing in India’s hot climate, keeping you cool and comfortable.
• Automatic Climate Control: Maintains your desired cabin temperature efficiently.
• Connected Car Technology: ZConnect allows you to control car functions via your smartphone.
• Air Purifier: Enhances cabin air quality, especially useful in polluted city environments.

Ground Clearance

The Tata Punch EV has an unladen ground clearance of 190 mm. This is excellent for tackling varied Indian road conditions, including potholes and unpaved roads, without worrying about scraping the undercarriage.

Boot Space

The boot space of the Tata Punch EV stands at a generous 366 litres. This is ample for your daily grocery runs, weekend luggage, or even airport trips, making it a practical family car.

Dimensions

• Length: 3857 mm
• Width: 1742 mm
• Height: 1633 mm
• Wheelbase: 2500 mm

Powertrain Options

The Tata Punch EV comes with two battery and motor options, catering to different range requirements:

• Medium Range (MR): This version features a 25 kWh battery pack paired with a 60 kW 80.46 hp motor, offering an ARAI certified range of 315 km. This is ideal for city driving and daily commutes.
• Long Range (LR): For those needing more range, the LR variant comes with a larger 35 kWh battery pack and a more powerful 90 kW 120.69 hp motor. This combination delivers an impressive ARAI certified range of 421 km, making it suitable for occasional longer journeys.

Both versions offer instant torque, characteristic of electric vehicles, providing a zippy and responsive driving experience. They support DC fast charging, allowing you to top up the battery quickly at public charging stations.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone for Tata Motors, and the Punch EV is no exception. It comes loaded with active and passive safety features:

• 6 Airbags standard on top variants
• Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution EBD
• Electronic Stability Program ESP
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System TPMS
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• All-wheel disc brakes on Long Range variants
• Blind Spot Monitor
• SOS Call functionality

NCAP Rating Table

The Tata Punch EV has demonstrated impressive safety credentials.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP	Not rated specifically for Punch EV yet (ICE Punch: 5 Stars)	Not rated specifically for Punch EV yet (ICE Punch: 5 Stars)

Rivals of Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S

The Tata Punch EV competes in a growing segment of electric SUVs. Its main rivals in the Indian market include:

• Citroen eC3
• Mahindra XUV400

While other EVs exist, these are the most direct competitors in terms of size, segment, and target audience for the Tata Punch EV.

How is the Car? Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S Pros & Cons

Let us weigh the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision:

Advantages (Pros)

• Safety First: With a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, it is one of the safest electric cars in its segment.
• Feature-Packed: The Empowered Plus S variant offers a comprehensive list of modern features, including a sunroof, 360-degree camera, and ventilated seats, enhancing comfort and convenience.
• Impressive Range Options: With both MR and LR variants, buyers can choose a range that suits their daily needs and budget, reducing range anxiety.
• Stylish Design: The bold and contemporary SUV design, both inside and out, makes it stand out on the road.
• Lower Running Costs: Electric vehicles generally have significantly lower running costs compared to petrol cars, saving you money on fuel.
• Driving Dynamics: Instant torque from the electric motor makes city driving very enjoyable and responsive.
• Tata's Charging Network: Benefits from Tata Power's widespread charging infrastructure, making public charging more accessible.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Higher Initial Cost: Like most EVs, the Tata Punch EV has a higher upfront purchase price compared to its petrol counterpart, which can be a barrier for some buyers.
• Charging Time: While fast charging is available, charging an EV still takes longer than refuelling a petrol car, which requires some planning for long journeys.
• Limited Boot Space: While 366 litres is decent, some buyers might find it slightly less than what they are used to in similarly sized ICE SUVs, although it's still quite practical.
• Variant Specific Features: Many top-tier features are only available on the Empowered Plus S variant, which means opting for the most expensive trim to get everything.

Conclusion: Is the Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S Right for You?

The Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S emerges as a highly compelling package for the Indian electric vehicle market. It perfectly blends style, safety, and a host of advanced features, making it ideal for city dwellers, young families, and anyone looking to transition to electric mobility. Its 5-star safety rating provides immense peace of mind, while the choice of range options makes it versatile for various usage patterns.

While the initial cost is higher than a petrol car, the long-term savings on running and maintenance costs, combined with a feature-rich, safe, and modern driving experience, make the Tata Punch EV a smart and forward-thinking choice. If you are in the market for a compact electric SUV that is reliable, packed with tech, and built for Indian conditions, the Tata Punch EV Empowered Plus S should definitely be on top of your test-drive list. It truly embodies what a modern electric car should be.