MUMBAI — Tata Motors rolled out significant updates to the Punch EV, focusing on faster charging and enhanced features to boost its appeal in India’s electric vehicle market. The 40 kWh battery pack now supports 65 kW DC fast charging. Tata claims it reaches 80% capacity from 20% in just 26 minutes. A quick 15-minute charge adds about 135 kilometers of real-world range, according to company tests.

For everyday charging at home, buyers receive a 7.2 kW wallbox charger alongside a 3.3 kW portable unit. The wallbox includes a new illuminated status indicator, helping users track progress in low-light conditions or at night.

Safety and convenience upgrades stand out across trims. Every Punch EV comes with a 360-degree camera system as standard equipment. Higher variants add ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging and advanced connected car tech. A high beam alert system now warns drivers if high beams stay on at low speeds, reducing glare for oncoming traffic.

Inside, even base models feel more complete. Touchscreens integrate smoothly with the new features, and cabin materials show subtle refinements. Tata engineers emphasized practicality during a recent preview event in Mumbai.

Pricing remains competitive, with the battery-as-a-service option lowering upfront costs for budget-conscious buyers. This subscription model covers battery replacement but ties long-term expenses to driving habits and mileage. Officials did not disclose exact subscription rates yet.

The standout perk is the lifetime battery warranty with unlimited kilometers. It covers defects and degradation for as long as owners keep the vehicle, a bold move in a segment where warranties often cap at eight years or 160,000 km. Tata aims to ease range anxiety and build trust in EV ownership.

These changes position the Punch EV against rivals like the MG Comet EV and upcoming models from Mahindra. Deliveries start next month from Tata’s Pune plant. February s on petrol variants of the Punch, Altroz and Nexon — up to ₹85,000 — signal aggressive sales tactics amid softening demand.

Early drives reveal smooth power delivery from the 82-horsepower motor. Real-world efficiency hovers around 250-280 km per charge in city traffic, per initial reports. Tata plans software updates over-the-air to refine battery management further.

Industry analysts praise the fast-charging leap. ‘It bridges a key gap for highway users,’ said one expert from Mumbai’s ARAI testing lab. The Punch EV’s sub-4-meter size keeps road tax low in most states, aiding affordability.

Tata’s EV push continues with the Curvv coupe incoming later this year. The Punch facelift arrives as battery costs drop globally, squeezing margins but expanding the market.