As of early February 2026, Hyundai’s electric vehicle offensive is gaining significant momentum. While the recently launched Creta EV is making waves in the mid-size segment, new spy shots from South Korea have confirmed the development of a brand-new, compact electric SUV tailored specifically for the Indian market and global exports.
Here is a detailed look at the upcoming Hyundai Electric SUV, currently codenamed HE1i, which is set to challenge the dominant Tata Punch EV.
The global automotive landscape is shifting, and Hyundai is positioning India as a primary production hub for its next generation of mass-market electric vehicles. Recent sightings of a “boxy” electric test mule in South Korea—plugged into a public charging station—have confirmed that this mystery vehicle is indeed an EV.
Designed, engineered, and built in India, this upcoming SUV will not only serve domestic buyers but will also be exported to international markets, including Europe and the Middle East.
Design & Styling: A “Mini-SUV” with Premium Tech
The spy shots reveal a vehicle that draws inspiration from the global Hyundai Inster EV (based on the Casper) but with significant modifications for Indian tastes.
- The “H” Signature: Unlike the Creta EV, this new model features Hyundai’s new quad-dot logo on a closed-off grille, which spells out “H” in Morse code—a signature seen on the Ioniq series.
- Boxy Silhouette: The SUV features a tall-boy stance, chunky body cladding, and roof rails, giving it the rugged “Micro-SUV” look that Indian buyers prefer.
- Pixel LED Lighting: Both front DRLs and rear tail lights utilize a pixelated design theme, emphasizing its identity as a modern electric vehicle.
- Flush Door Handles: Adding a touch of premium sophistication, the test mules feature flush-fitting door handles and aerodynamically designed 17-inch alloy wheels.
Anticipated Specifications & Performance
While official technical details remain under wraps, the HE1i is expected to share its platform and powertrain with the Kia Syros EV.
| Feature | Expected Details |
| Platform | E-GMP (K) – Global & Affordable EV Architecture |
| Battery Options | Standard Range (~42 kWh) & Long Range (~49 kWh) |
| Estimated Range | 300 km to 355 km (WLTP) |
| Electric Motor | 97 hp (Standard) / 115 hp (Long Range) |
| Charging | 120 kW DC Fast Charging (10-80% in ~30 mins) |
| Key Features | Dual 10.25-inch screens, Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, V2L |
“Made in India” for the World
Hyundai has confirmed that this vehicle will be heavily localized to keep costs competitive. Production is slated for the Sriperumbudur plant in Tamil Nadu, utilizing locally sourced battery cells from Exide Energy.
This localization is a strategic move to undercut rivals like the Tata Punch EV and Citroen eC3. Furthermore, the Indian facility will act as the sole production site for this specific model, exporting it to global A-segment markets where small, efficient urban EVs are in high demand.
Launch Timeline and Market Positioning
Hyundai’s EV roadmap for India is clear:
- Creta EV (2025): Already launched and targeting the mid-size and fleet segments.
- HE1i / Compact EV (Late 2026/Early 2027): This “Punch-sized” SUV will be the second major pillar in Hyundai’s volume strategy.
Expected Price: Hyundai is aiming for a competitive price bracket of ₹10 Lakh to ₹14 Lakh, placing it directly in the crosshairs of the best-selling Tata Punch EV.
Conclusion
With the HE1i, Hyundai is not just launching another car; it is building a “Home Brand” strategy in India. By combining global EV tech like V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and Level 2 ADAS with localized manufacturing, Hyundai is poised to become a formidable challenger to Tata Motors’ dominance in the Indian electric space.