Tata Motors has introduced the facelift model of its popular and most affordable electric SUV, the Punch EV, almost two years after its initial release. This new model boasts the largest battery pack in its segment, a 40kWh unit, allowing for an impressive driving range of 468 kilometers on a single charge according to the company's claims. The refreshing upgrades aim to enhance the appeal of the Punch EV in the growing electric vehicle market in India.

The Punch EV is available in two different configurations, starting at a price of 9.69 lakh rupees (ex-showroom) for the model with the battery included. In addition to this standard pricing, Tata has introduced a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model. Under this model, the initial cost of the electric vehicle is reduced to 6.49 lakh rupees (ex-showroom), with customers required to pay a rental fee of 2.6 rupees per kilometer for battery usage, effectively separating the battery's cost from the vehicle's price.

This subscription model provides a unique opportunity for customers to purchase an EV at a lower upfront cost. By not including the battery in the vehicle's price, Tata Motors aims to make electric vehicles more accessible to a wider audience. The approach aligns with global trends in the EV segment, where manufacturers increasingly explore innovative financing options to promote electric mobility while addressing the high costs associated with battery technology.