Introducing The Hyundai Inster, A Potential Rival To The Tata Punch EV

Witness the all-new Hyundai Inster, marking the debut of a new A-segment for sub-compact EV SUVs by the Korean brand. This model could be introduced in India as the electric version of the Hyundai Exter, directly competing head-to-head with the popular Tata Punch EV. Currently, the Punch EV enjoys a unique position in its segment without any direct rivals, making it the undisputed leader.

I'm here to provide you with a specification comparison based on the press release to determine whether the Inster has the power to challenge the Punch and dethrone it from its top position. Let's delve into the details. Additionally, you can join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group community to stay updated with the latest automotive news and updates.

Also Read: Welcome The Possible Rival Of Tata Punch EV, Hyundai Inster EV Or Exter EV For India

Let's Compare the Dimensions of Hyundai Inster and Tata Punch EV.

According to the table, the Inster is shorter in length, width, and height compared to the Tata Punch EV. However, the wheelbase of the Inster (or Exter EV in India) is longer by 135 mm, which translates to increased interior space. On the other hand, the Punch EV excels in width and height, making it more comfortable for three people to sit in the rear compared to the Inster.

What about the range and performance of Hyundai Inster and Tata Punch EV?

The Hyundai Inster will offer two battery pack options: a standard 42 kWh pack with 97 Ps power and a long-range 49 kWh pack with 115 Ps power. In comparison, the Tata Punch EV standard variant comes with a 25 kWh battery pack delivering 80 Ps, while the long-range option features a 35 kWh battery pack with 121 Ps.

The data shows that the Inster standard version has more power than the Punch EV standard version. The Inster covers 0 to 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds, whereas the Tata Punch EV takes 13.5 seconds. For the long-range versions, Hyundai reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds, while the Punch EV achieves it in 9.5 seconds.

However, when it comes to range, the Inster offers a shorter range with both powertrains compared to the Punch EV. It is important to note that the range provided by Hyundai complies with EU laws under the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), while the Punch EVs range is tested under the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC). When the Inster, possibly rebranded as the Exter EV, arrives in India, its range numbers could differ and may be comparable to or even exceed those of the Punch EV.

Let's talk about the charging time of Hyundai Inster EV vs Tata Punch EV

Both cars supports are equipped with AC and DC charging. The Inster standard battery pack takes 4 hours to fully charge on AC power and the long range battery takes 4 hr 35 minutes. Talking about the 120 Kw DC fast charging the Inster both battery packs take 30 minutes to go from 10 percent to 80 percent.

The Tata Punch EV standard battery pack takes 9.4 hours to charge under 3.3 Kw AC charger, while the long-range model takes 13.5 hours to charge its 35 kWh battery using a regular charger. With a 7.2 kW charger, the Punch EV charges in 3.6 hours for the standard model and 5 hours for the long-range model. Using a 50 kW DC fast charger, both battery packs can charge from 10% to 80% in just 56 minutes.

These test results are positive for the Inster, as it takes less time to charge using both AC and DC charging units compared to the Tata Punch EV.

Hyundai Inster and Tata Punch EV features list

According to the Hyundai Inster press release, the features listed are specific to the international variant. However, it is believed that the Inster will be released in India with features similar to the Punch EV. The international variant will include ADAS Level 2 safety features, 64-color LED ambient lighting, a digital cluster, a one-touch sunroof, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch (NFC) accessibility.

On the other hand, the Tata Punch EV offers the latest features such as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a single-pane sunroof, dual-tone interiors, a 360-degree camera, a wireless phone charger, a blind spot monitor, an electronic parking brake (EPB) with auto hold, six airbags as standard, all four disc brakes, hill hold assist, hill descent control, and much more.

Price Comparison between Hyundai Inster and Tata Punch EV

The Tata Punch EV starts at Rs 10.98 lakh, with the top-spec model priced at Rs 15.48 lakh, offering 20 variants in total. The Hyundai Inster is expected to start at Rs 11.50 lakh, with the top model likely exceeding Rs 16 lakh, I believe. Currently, there is no confirmed Indian launch date for the Inster EV.

According to the Hyundai press release, it will first be launched in South Korea this summer, followed by releases in Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region.