In this post, we take a look at 5 pros and 4 cons of the Tata Punch EV. It is the first Tata EV to employ the specialized pure EV architecture known as acti.ev. Consequently, there are distinct advantages of this platform in comparison to an adapted platform from internal combustion engine (ICE) models. Note that the Nexon EV, Tiago EV and Tigor EV use the same platforms as their regular coal-burning counterparts. For now, let us take a look at what we like and what could still have been better with the new Punch EV. We must mention that the list of pros outweigh the list of cons significantly. Still, it is critical to mention both.
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5 Pros of Tata Punch EV
Range
You would expect an SUV to be bulky and not efficient. However, the new Punch EV promises a range of 315 km with the smaller 25 kWh battery pack and 421 km with the larger 35 kWh battery pack. This should suffice in most cases not just for everyday drives, but also short-distance highway trips.
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Specifications
The two battery pack options enable Tata Motors to offer the Punch EV with two specifications. The smaller version produces 82 PS and 114 Nm of peak power and torque. This is the same as the existing petrol variant. However, the larger battery pack trim outputs 122 PS and 190 Nm of peak power and torque. That is a lot of power for a car of this size.
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Features
Tata Motors has equipped the Punch EV with numerous modern tech, connectivity and convenience functionalities. The list is long including dual 10.2-inch screens – one dedicated to the HD Infotainment powered by HARMAN and a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster. The steering wheel, featuring an illuminated Tata logo, is a two-spoke design, complemented by phygital controls. Additional features include smartphone connectivity, Google Assistant (for Android users), Connected Car Tech, and over 200 voice commands in 6 languages for Alexa, Siri, and more. The vehicle also boasts wireless charging, an auto-dimming IRVM, a Type-C USB port, an electric sunroof, ventilated leatherette seats, an air purifier, paddle shifters for 4-step regenerative braking, Over-The-Air updates, 6 airbags, brake disc wiping, a 360-surround view monitor, 90-degree opening doors, 366 litres of boot space, and more.
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Safety
Now, we will only come to know about the official safety rating once Bharat NCAP tests it. However, it is hard to ignore the image Tata Motors has when it comes to safety. Note that the ICE counterpart of the Punch already boasts a full 5-star safety rating at the Global NCAP. Sure, the platform of the Punch EV is new, but the model shares a lot of similarities with the ICE version. Therefore, expectations from the crash test are high.
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Low Running Costs
Finally, Tata Punch EV offer low running costs. However, this is not just limited to the Punch EV. In fact, it is an inherent trait of all EVs. Generally, the high initial price is offset due to the low running costs over years of ownership.
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4 Cons of Tata Punch
No Spare Tyre
In all honesty, this might not be totally bad considering this is becoming an industry trend lately. Carmakers save some money by not offering a spare tyre. Instead, the buyers get a tyre puncture repair kit. In this way, they are able to take care of any unpleasant situation. Still, it is worth mentioning.
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No Rear AC Vents
Note that neither the ICE model nor the EV version comes with rear AC vents. For a car whose top model costs over Rs 16 lakh, on-road, not having rear AC vents will definitely be frustrating.
Price
Now this is an interesting aspect. We understand that the Punch EV is based on the new dedicated platform. But that has resulted in increased pricing. The EV ranges between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 14.49 lakh, ex-showroom. However, if you wish to add a sunroof and a 7 kW AC fast charging option, you will need to spend Rs 1 lakh (Rs 50,000 + Rs 50,000) more. That takes the price of the top model to Rs 15.49 lakh, ex-showroom. For a micro SUV, that is a bit steep.
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Aftersales Network
Finally, we must also discuss the aftersales network of Tata Motors. Now, the Indian auto giant has been working tirelessly toward expanding its footprint across the country. The number of touchpoints (dealerships and service centres) is increasing on a daily basis. However, in comparison to the industry giants like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, there is still a long way to go. That is why we are considering this as a con for now.
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Author’s Note
Tata Punch EV aims to distinguish itself from existing Tata EVs with the new platform and plenty of new-age features. It makes it a compelling proposition for the buyers. There are many great things going for the Punch EV. Still, it is always best to compare all the pros and cons before purchasing any car. After doing your research, you should opt for the vehicle. We hope that this post on the pros and cons of Tata Punch EV will help you in this regard.
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