Representational
It is no secret that a brand new compact electric SUV from Hyundai is currently under works and is expected to debut in India in January 2027. The new EV will enter a segment occupied by the Tata Nexon EV, Punch EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and the Kia Syros EV. It will get a brand new styling compared to other mainstream Hyundai SUVs and will target high volume sales.
The India-specific HE1i could source its smaller battery from the Kia Syros EV. The Syros EV Standard Range gets a 42 kWh battery and a front mounted electric motor kicking out 135 hp and 255 Nm. It boasts a claimed range of 443 km between charges and we expect similar range capabilities. Kia also sells a 51.4 kWh version which is rated at 171 hp and 255 Nm.
The HE1i itself will be offered in Standard Range and Long Range trims. The international-spec Inster provides another reference as it gets 42 kWh and 49 kWh batteries rated for up to 300 km and 355 km respectively under WLTP testing. Its Standard Range motor develops 97 hp and 147 Nm and the Long Range variant raises power to 115 hp at the same torque figure.
Also Read: Hyundai Plans 26 Car Launches In India By 2030 – New Creta, EV & More
The first local production batches are expected to get cells supplied by Svolt. Hyundai plans to source cells locally through its association with Exide once domestic cell production begins. The equipment list will feature a suite of Level 2 ADAS technology while Pleos-based infotainment system and AI integration will be key additions just as in the soon-launching Bayon.
Besides, the Hyundai compact electric SUV will feature twin 10.25-inch displays (one for infotainment and the other for instrumentation), automatic climate control, a 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, auto-dimming IRVM and more. The HE1i sits on Hyundai’s E-GMP (K) platform and will be manufactured at the company’s Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu.
Also Read: Hyundai’s Pune Plant Inaugurated; Capable Of Producing Both ICE & Hybrid Cars
On October 26, the Korean manufacturer is all set to bring in the India-spec Bayon and it will be equipped with a 1.5L NA petrol engine, mated to either a manual or an iVT. It will be positioned between Venue and Creta, and expected the prices to start just under Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom).
