Tata Punch EV 40 kWh: Real-world range, exciting performance, and a price to dominate the city

Analysis of the Tata Punch EV 40 kWh: real-world range up to 384 km, fast charging, and daily cost for urban use.

The Tata Punch EV arrives with significant changes compared to the previous generation, including a larger battery, new cell chemistry, and more agile performance for city dwellers.

What is the Punch EV?

Besides the internal combustion version launched in 2021, the electric variant of the Punch, available since 2024, brings the biggest leap: the battery grows from 25 kWh to 30 kWh in the entry-level versions and from 35 kWh to 40 kWh in the more complete versions. The new cell is LFP prismatic type, offering higher density and thermal stability. I am testing the 40 kWh version, ideal for daily urban use and short trips.

What is the design like?

Since it has no engine, it doesn't need a front grille, and the assembly looks flatter and cleaner. Under the hood is the frunk with only 16 liters, enough to store the charger and cables.

Inside, almost all buttons have been replaced by touchscreens. The Punch EV maintains its compact SUV size but offers good space for four adults thanks to the flat floor. The trunk has about 360 liters, suitable for the car's size.

How does it drive?

With Sport mode activated, the Punch EV accelerates hard: 0 to 100 km/h takes 9 seconds, a half-second reduction compared to the previous model and matching the Hyundai Creta turbo.

The silence is almost absolute, with only a slight motor whistle. Off-road, the suspension absorbs well, making the car feel like it's riding on rubber and without the typical thud when going over potholes.

Range and Charging

The real-world range is good: my unit registered 384 km at 100% charge without air conditioning, and 350 km with AC on, close to Tata's real estimate.

The ease of recharging is also much superior: with fast charging, the 40 kWh battery goes from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes. In a short break, it's possible to add 135 km of real range in 15–20 minutes, provided there is a 120 kW charger. Even on 60 kW chargers, expect a gain of 75–100 km in 15–20 minutes.

What I didn't like

• Above 100 km/h, acceleration tends to decrease to conserve battery.
• The EV lacks rear air vents for the air conditioning, unlike the gasoline Punch.
• The rotary gear selector lever is slow, especially when you want to switch quickly between Parking/Reverse and Drive.

Buy? Is it worth it?

The price is aggressive: the top-tier Empowered+ S 40 kWh version costs Rs 12.59 lakh (ex-showroom). If you are looking only for urban use, the Smart 30 kWh costs Rs 9.69 lakh, with a battery lease for Rs 6.49 lakh plus Rs 2.6 per km.

In summary, it doesn't "surprise" in one specific area, but it delivers, in an integrated way, everything an entry-level electric SUV should offer for the mainstream buyer.

Which version would you choose for your urban daily life: the more affordable 30 kWh option or the more powerful 40 kWh package? Comment below with your opinion.