Tata Motors has officially confirmed that its premium electric hatchback – codenamed Ascot – is still under development. First revealed as a concept at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show and later showcased in near-production form at Auto Expo 2020, this upcoming EV has been in the pipeline for a while.
Tata’s new EV hatchback will be built on the same Acti.EV platform that underpins the Punch EV. Both electric cars are expected to offer similar battery and motor options. The Punch EV currently comes with two battery packs – 25 kWh and 35 kWh – delivering an ARAI-claimed range of 265 km and 365 km, respectively. Power output figures stand at 81 bhp for the smaller battery and 120 bhp for the larger one.
The upcoming hatch is expected to carry the same setup, offering a balance between city range and performance. Prices for this new electric hatchback are likely to overlap with the Punch EV, which is currently priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹14.44 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Earlier, Tata faced technical challenges in integrating the battery pack into the hatchback’s floor. The original packaging led to a drop in ground clearance by around 20mm, affecting the car’s proportions. Raising the height wasn’t ideal either, as it would compromise the hatchback’s sporty stance.
Now, with updates to the Acti.EV platform, Tata seems to have overcome this issue. The revamped architecture, which will also be seen on the upcoming Punch EV facelift, has likely enabled better battery placement without affecting design or dynamics.
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Tata is set to launch the Punch Facelift (ICE version) during the upcoming festive season, while the EV version will also get some updates. The ICE variant will have a design similar to the EV, but with slightly different bumpers. Inside, the cabin will receive new features and equipment upgrades to improve the overall user experience. The EV version is expected to get a larger battery pack with improved range, based on customer feedback asking for better long-distance performance. These upgrades could also be used in Tata’s upcoming electric hatchback, making it more suitable for intercity travel.
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Tata Motors is clearly strengthening its EV portfolio, and this premium electric hatchback will play a key role in that strategy. With proven underpinnings, updated architecture, and a range that suits both city and light intercity use, the upcoming EV hatchback is expected to offer a compelling option under ₹10 lakh. Its launch will further expand Tata’s EV dominance in the Indian market, especially among urban buyers seeking a sleek yet practical electric vehicle.
