Hyundai Motor India plans to launch its entry-level EV, codenamed HE1i, in late 2026, based on the Hyundai Inster EV.

The HE1i will use Hyundai’s affordable E-GMP (K) platform and be produced at the Sriperumbudur plant in Tamil Nadu, with locally sourced batteries from Exide.

The HE1i will compete with the Tata Punch EV and Citroen eC3, featuring a slightly smaller body but advanced features derived from the Inster EV.

1. The compact SUV will offer two motor options (97 HP and 115 HP) and two NMC battery packs, with ranges of 300 km (42kWh) and 355 km (49kWh).

 The Inster EV-based HE1i will include dual 10.25-inch displays, ADAS, auto climate control, and a 360-degree camera with blind spot monitoring.

Hyundai has committed Rs. 20,000 crores for EV development in India, aiming to launch four new EV models and achieve an annual production of 90,000 units, with a significant portion for export.