Hyundai’s upcoming sub-4-metre electric SUV has been spotted again during road testing in India ahead of its expected launch in 2027. Codenamed HE1i, the new EV will sit below the Creta Electric in Hyundai’s electric SUV range and is expected to take on the Tata Punch EV.
The latest test mule gives a closer look at some of the technology Hyundai could offer on its smallest electric SUV yet. The vehicle appears to feature the company’s new Pleos Connect infotainment system, while sequential turn indicators can also be seen.
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New Hyundai EV gets Pleos Connect
One of the biggest highlights of the latest test vehicle is its dashboard-mounted digital display. This is understood to be part of Hyundai’s Pleos Connect next-generation infotainment system, which has already been introduced on select models in international markets. The system uses a large central touchscreen along with a smaller display positioned in front of the driver. The latter focuses on key information such as vehicle speed, efficiency and available driving range.
Hyundai’s Pleos Connect setup can use a 17-inch central touchscreen and a 9.9-inch driver display, although the exact screen sizes for the India-spec small EV are yet to be confirmed. The larger screen remains covered on the test vehicle, but its outline is visible on the dashboard. Hyundai India has previously indicated that its upcoming EV will feature a next-generation infotainment system.
Sequential indicators spotted
The latest test mule also appears to feature sequential turn indicators, adding a more premium touch to the compact electric SUV. The exterior remains heavily camouflaged, so the final design details are still unclear. However, the new Hyundai EV is expected to have a dedicated electric SUV design while maintaining dimensions below four metres to fit into the sub-4-metre segment.
Expected to offer premium features
Despite its compact size, Hyundai is expected to give the new EV a strong equipment package. Potential features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, a sunroof and ventilated front seats.
The SUV could also feature a flexible interior with multiple seating and cargo configurations. As it is being developed as a dedicated electric vehicle, Hyundai is expected to make efficient use of the cabin space.
Safety could also be a major focus, with the new EV expected to offer up to seven airbags, a 360-degree camera and a range of Level 2 ADAS functions.
Battery could offer around 450km range
Hyundai’s upcoming electric SUV is expected to use a derivative of the E-GMP (K) platform. It could be offered with battery packs of around 40-50kWh, while the claimed range could be close to 450km.
The company has not yet confirmed the battery capacity, motor output or range for the India-spec model. These details are likely to be announced closer to its market launch.
Tata Punch EV rival could start below Rs. 10 lakh
The new Hyundai EV will be manufactured in India with a high level of localisation. It is also expected to be exported to multiple international markets, which could help Hyundai achieve economies of scale.
With the sub-4-metre dimensions and high local content, Hyundai could target an aggressive price point. The electric SUV is expected to start at under Rs. 10 lakh, although the final price will be revealed closer to the launch.
The new model is expected to compete primarily with the Tata Punch EV, while its compact dimensions, modern technology and potentially competitive pricing could make it an important addition to Hyundai’s electric vehicle line-up. The launch is expected sometime in 2027, with more details likely to emerge as testing progresses.
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