The anticipated electric vehicle (EV) Hyundai Creta, heavily cloaked in camouflage was recently spotted in test runs in Delhi. These test mules are speculated to be in the near production-ready stages, given their different camouflage compared to earlier spied versions. The sightings are attributed to auto enthusiast Sitanshu and have sparked anticipation for what Hyundai has to offer in the electric compact SUV category.
The latest spy shots indicate that excluding the electric power infrastructure, the EV version of Creta will bear a striking similarity to its Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) counterpart, including the popular sporty profile and powerful performance. This indicates Hyundai's intention to convert its mainstream ICE to an electric version in the Indian market, a strategic choice given that the original Creta is already a well-established model in the SUV segment.
This forthcoming iteration of Creta comes on the heels of the recent ICE Creta facelift. With its comprehensive range of updates, it is expected that the Creta EV will borrow heavily from the facelifted ICE Creta, from both platform and feature perspectives. This overlap could result in competitive pricing, allowing the Creta EV to compete robustly in the electric compact SUV category, leveraging the brand's reputation as it enters the electric vehicle race.
Automobile enthusiasts can expect to see some distinguishing features with the Hyundai Creta EV. On the exterior, sequential turn indicators, horizontally stacked LED positioning lamps and daytime running lights (DRLs) and a sculpted bonnet design are notable additions. The side profile also promises to stand out with an aerodynamically optimized new set of alloy wheels.
These wheels not only reduce the vehicle’s air drag coefficient and boost range, but they also enhance aesthetics. At the rear, the SUV will sport connected LED tail lamps, a sleek spoiler, sequential turn signals, and a high-mounted LED stop lamp.
The charging port will be conveniently situated in the front of the vehicle. As for interior elements, potential features like the 4-dot steering wheel seen in Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 may be borrowed from other Hyundai electric vehicles.
Moreover, more likely borrowings from its ICE sibling could include a dual-screen setup, voice-activated panoramic sunroof, front ventilated seats, a Bose premium sound system, and dual-zone climate control capabilities. Even ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) incorporated, as inferred from a recently spotted test mule equipped with a bumper-mounted radar module.
Yet to be confirmed officially, the Hyundai Creta EV is expected to offer a remarkable range of around 450 km, courtesy of its advanced regenerative system. With a speculated 45-kWh battery pack energizing a single motor on the front axle, the power output could be anticipated to match that of the new-gen Kona, rendering 138 hp and 255 Nm.
By 2030, Hyundai has planned to roll out at least five new EVs in the Indian market. It's highly likely that the first off the production line will be the Hyundai Creta EV, which will be manufactured in Hyundai's facility in Chennai. As a part of Hyundai and Kia's recent alliance with Exide, the battery packs could potentially be sourced locally, boosting the efficiency of production for Hyundai’s much-awaited EV fleet.
The introduction of the Hyundai Creta EV is expected to shake up the compact SUV segment, especially with more electric options coming up like Tata Curvv (ICE + EV), Mahindra BE.05, Maruti eVX, and Toyota’s version of eVX. With the advent of these players, car users will have a plethora of choices when deciding on an electric compact SUV in the near future.
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
