Hyundai Ioniq P

The Indian EV market is gaining traction, both in terms of adoption from the customers end and options from the manufacturers. But most of the options have been coming to the higher price spectrum of the market with numerous new EVs around the Rs 20 lakh mark and beyond. 

Carmakers like Tata do have some smaller electric options, but many mass market players are yet to enter that space. Hyundai is now planning to foray into this space with its upcoming compact electric SUV, codenamed the HE1i and is likely to be called the Hyundai Ioniq P. It is expected to be priced from around Rs 13 lakh (ex-showroom) and would rival the likes of the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Kia Syros EV and MG Windsor EV. Here’s everything we know about it so far:

A test mule of the Hyundai Ioniq P has been spotted doing the rounds, and it hints at a very boxy SUV, contrary to what people might have been expecting from an electric vehicle based on a dedicated EV platform. 

The spotted vehicle was heavily draped in camouflage, but it still revealed it’s going to be a muscular SUV with a flat roofline and prominent roof rails. 

Up front, we can spot the pixelated LED DRLs, the approach of which matches a few other Hyundai models, like the IONIQ 5. We expect the dual-pod LED headlights to be placed closer to the bumper. And going by Hyundai’s design language, the bumper is going to be chunky, and could possible have a contrast with a skid plate

Apart from its stance, the side profile also reveals quirky aero cover wheels, with the size most likely being 16- or 17-inch. We can also spot a big glass roof area, which will enable the cabin to feel airy. 

The rear end of the electric SUV wasn’t clicked, but notice how short the overhang is, something which we’ve also seen in the Kia Syros EV. The size of the vehicle might be compact, but it seems like Hyundai is trying to maximise the wheelbase for maximum possible space inside.

There have been no spied images of the interior yet, but because the vehicle is most likely going to be based on a dedicated EV platform, we expect Hyundai to maximise space and storage spaces, like we’ve seen in other born-EVs. 

Considering the wheelbase, which looks to be stretched, we wouldn’t be surprised if the carmaker offers slide and recline for the rear seat passengers.

No Hyundai vehicle is scarce of features and tech, and we don’t expect the HE1i to be any less either. 

Expect features like dual screens with an infotainment system and digital drivers display, ventilated front seat, wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, connected car technology can wireless Android Auto And Apple CarPlay. We can already confirm the presence of a sunroof. 

With all such modern features expected to be on offer, basics like keyless entry, push button start/stop, charging ports and rear AC vents will likely be covered. 

6 airbags are the norm in 2026 along with features like ABS with EBD, ISOFIX mounts, rear parking sensors and electronic stability control as standard. 

Importantly, the test mule confirms the presence of ADAS (autonomous driving assistance systems), but the level of functionality is unknown. 

We also expect features like hill-hold control, tyre pressure monitoring system and a 360-degree camera to be part of the safety package.

Hyundai had previously confirmed that the upcoming EV will be getting two battery options to choose from with a claimed range of up to 500km. 

Fast DC charging capability will be on offer for quick top ups to enable long distance road trips. 

What kind of battery chemistry will be used is yet to be seen, but current Hyundai EVs use NMC battery chemistry.

Very little is known about this upcoming Hyundai electric SUV, apart from the fact that it is going to be a boxy and tall vehicle in terms of styling and will have multiple battery options. But if Hyundai equips it well, which it likely will, and is able to price it between the Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh ballpark, it might just have a lot of takers. For someone looking for a small SUV, the credibility and reliability that comes with a brand like Hyundai might just be what is needed for them to go electric, which is somewhat missing at that price in the market.