Hyundai HE1i Compact Electric SUV to Launch in India by Q4 2026
Hyundai's new HE1i compact electric SUV is slated for an India launch by Q4 2026, promising to shake up the mass-market EV segment with an India-centric design and high localisation. Internally codenamed HE1i, this EV will be built on the dedicated E-GMP (K) platform. It is expected to offer two battery options: a 42 kWh unit with an estimated WLTP range of.
Hyundai Motor India is poised to significantly expand its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio with the impending launch of a new compact electric SUV, currently known by its internal codename HE1i. The highly anticipated model is slated to debut in India during the fourth quarter of 2026, falling within the current fiscal year (FY2026-27) which concludes in March 2027.
This strategic move by Hyundai aims to capture a larger share of the mass-market EV segment, currently dominated by rivals. Hyundai Motor India MD & CEO, Tarun Garg, has consistently affirmed the company's commitment to delivering an India-specific electric SUV, designed and manufactured locally, with plans for more than 50% local content to ensure PLI compliance. José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, also echoed this sentiment, confirming a new compact SUV designed and localised specifically for the Indian market, expected to arrive by 2027. Details were provided by a report by CarLelo. Honda Elevate Facelift Bookings Opens; Check Amount, Specifications, Features and Price.
Platform and Manufacturing
The HE1i will be built on the dedicated E-GMP (K) electric platform, an architecture also underpinning the globally available Hyundai Inster EV. This foundation signifies Hyundai's commitment to a 'born-electric' design rather than electrifying an existing internal combustion engine (ICE) platform. Production will take place at Hyundai's Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu, with a strong emphasis on localisation to achieve competitive pricing and tailor the vehicle for Indian roads and safety standards.
Expected Specifications and Features
The HE1i is expected to be offered with two battery options, likely derived from the Hyundai Inster: a 42 kWh unit providing an estimated WLTP range of approximately 327 km, and a larger 49 kWh pack offering an estimated WLTP range of around 355 km. Hyundai is strategically partnering with Exide Energy for localised development of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery cells, though reports suggest initial units might utilise imported cells. Performance figures indicate the 42 kWh variant could produce around 97 bhp (71 kW) and 147 Nm of torque, while the 49 kWh version may offer approximately 115 bhp (85 kW) with similar torque, both driving the front wheels.
In terms of technology and creature comforts, the HE1i is set to impress. Confirmed features include a 'next-generation infotainment system', widely speculated to be Hyundai's Pleos Connect unit, and Level 2 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Spy shots have also confirmed the presence of a sunroof. Expected features include a dual 10.25-inch screen setup for infotainment and instrumentation, ventilated front seats, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless phone charger, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power output. Safety is paramount, with six to seven airbags, stability control, hill-start assist, and tyre pressure monitoring system anticipated.
Pricing and Market Position
The Hyundai HE1i is expected to be strategically priced to compete aggressively in the sub-4-meter compact EV segment. Initial estimates suggest an ex-showroom price range between ₹10 lakh and ₹16 lakh. This positioning will place it in direct competition with established players such as the Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Kia Syros EV, Tata Punch EV, and the MG Windsor EV. Porsche Cayenne Electric Price in India, Specifications and Features Revealed/
With its India-centric design, significant localisation, and a compelling feature set, the Hyundai HE1i aims to be a significant volume driver for the brand, bolstering its presence in India's rapidly expanding electric vehicle market.
Disclaimer: AI tools assisted in compiling the foundational data and research for this report. The final content was reviewed, edited and verified by human editors at LatestLY.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 05, 2026 04:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
