Hyundai confirms local EV production begins 2024 end - are they launching Creta electric?

In a recent voyage to India, Euisun Chung, the Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), delved deep into the corridors of future mobility strategies for the country. During a vibrant town hall meeting held on April 23, a tapestry of plans unfurled, revealing the meticulous designs for both Hyundai and Kia within the Indian landscape under the HMG umbrella.

Chief among these revelations was the announcement of Hyundai's maiden venture into localized electric vehicle (EV) production in India. Charting out the EV roadmap for the Indian market, Hyundai affirmed that the inaugural localized EV would commence production by the twilight of 2024, setting the stage for a potential market debut in the early dawn of 2025.

The spotlight of this electrifying revelation shines brightly upon the anticipated launch of the Hyundai Creta EV. If we were to connect the dots, it appears that the Creta EV is poised for a debut early next year. The all-electric rendition of the Creta has been surreptitiously captured in spy shots over recent months, offering tantalizing glimpses into its inner sanctum.

From these clandestine snapshots, a peek into the Creta EV's cockpit reveals a familiar layout akin to its ICE-powered counterpart. Anticipated is a familiar twin-screen setup, housing a touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. Notably, the Creta EV showcases a unique feature – a drive selector affixed to the steering column, adding a distinctive flair to its ambiance. However, much of the dashboard remains veiled, leaving enthusiasts eager for a comprehensive unveiling.

Speculations swirl around the expected specifications of the Hyundai Creta EV. Media conjecture suggests a 45kWh Lithium-ion battery pack, slightly petite compared to its counterparts. For instance, the MG ZS EV boasts a heftier 50.3kWh battery, while the Maruti Suzuki eVX purportedly offers a spectrum, ranging from a modest 48kWh to a potent 60kWh variant.

Previously disclosed details hint at the Creta EV sharing its electric motor with the latest-gen, entry-level Kona Electric. This implies a single-motor configuration propelling the front wheels, delivering a punchy 136 bhp and 255 Nm of torque. Unlike its eVX counterpart, the Creta EV is anticipated to be underpinned by the same platform as its combustion-powered sibling, promising a seamless transition to the electric domain.