Real-World Range Test: Tata Punch EV LR Variant

New Delhi: Tata Motors expanded its electric vehicle lineup with the launch of the Tata Punch EV in January 2024. The all-electric Punch is available with two battery pack options: 25 kWh and 35 kWh. We recently got our hands on the long-range (LR) variant equipped with the 35 kWh battery pack to see how far it can travel on a single charge under real-world conditions.

Specifications of the Tata Punch EV LR:

Battery Pack: 35 kWh
Claimed Range: Up to 320 km
Motor Power: 95 kW (127 hp)
Torque: 245 Nm
Charging Time (Fast Charger): 0-80% in 60 minutes
Charging Time (Standard Charger): 0-100% in 6 hours

Real-World Range Test:

In our real-world test, we aimed to assess the practicality and efficiency of the Tata Punch EV LR in everyday driving scenarios. Here’s how it performed:

City Driving:
During city commutes, the Punch EV LR excelled with its instant torque delivery and smooth acceleration. Despite frequent stops and starts in traffic, the vehicle managed an impressive range, covering approximately 270 km on a single charge. The regenerative braking system also helped conserve energy, extending the driving range.
Highway Driving:
On highways, the Punch EV LR maintained a steady performance. With cruise control engaged and a constant speed maintained, the vehicle achieved a range of around 300 km. However, higher speeds and air conditioning usage did impact the range slightly, reducing it by about 10-15% compared to city driving.
Mixed Driving Conditions:
Under mixed driving conditions, combining both city and highway routes, the Tata Punch EV LR delivered a balanced performance. The vehicle covered close to 285 km on a single charge, demonstrating its versatility for various driving environments.

Charging Experience:

The Tata Punch EV LR supports both fast and standard charging. During our test, we used a fast charger to replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in just 45 minutes, which is convenient for quick top-ups during long journeys. For overnight charging at home, the standard charger fully replenished the battery in about 6 hours.

Verdict:

The Tata Punch EV LR variant proves to be a reliable and efficient electric vehicle, suitable for both city commutes and longer trips. Its real-world range of around 270-300 km makes it a practical choice for eco-conscious consumers looking for a compact SUV with ample range and modern features.

With its competitive pricing and impressive performance, the Tata Punch EV LR stands out as a strong contender in the growing electric vehicle market in India.