Image: Tata official image
Hyundai Motor India is developing a new compact electric SUV that has been seen multiple times on public roads during testing over the past few months. Industry reports and recent spy shots suggest the model is being engineered primarily for the Indian market and could be Hyundai's first locally manufactured mass‑market electric SUV.
Expected launch and positioning
- According to reports from India, Hyundai aims to launch this affordable EV SUV between late 2026 and FY 2026–27, with some sources pointing to a broader 2026–2027 window for market introduction.
- The SUV is expected to slot below larger electric models like the Ioniq 5 and Creta EV, targeting the growing sub‑compact/compact EV SUV segment.
- In India, analysts expect an ex‑showroom price band roughly equivalent to Rs 10–15 lakh (Indian rupees). That would place it against entry‑level EV SUVs and could make it a candidate for future value‑focused EV offerings in Nepal, depending on import duties and local taxes.
Battery, range and charging
Reports indicate Hyundai will offer two battery options:
- A standard battery pack for everyday urban use.
- A larger battery pack expected to deliver over 500 km claimed range on a full charge under ideal conditions.
The bigger‑battery variant is expected to support DC fast charging, allowing significantly faster top‑ups on compatible fast chargers. Engineers are also reported to be working on features such as battery thermal management, regenerative braking and connected charging functions to improve efficiency and long‑term battery health.
Design and key exterior features
Spy images and media reports describe a design that sits close in size to the current Venue, but with styling cues borrowed from Hyundai's latest global EVs. Expected exterior elements include:
- Split LED daytime running lights at the top and main headlamps positioned lower in the bumper.
- Flush‑type door handles for cleaner aerodynamics.
- Black roof rails, a rear roof spoiler and aerodynamic alloy wheels of around 16 inches in size.
- Vertical rear reflectors and other EV‑specific styling touches to distinguish it from petrol SUVs.
Interior and technology
Inside, the upcoming SUV is expected to focus strongly on digital and connected features:
- A 12.3‑inch touchscreen infotainment system and fully digital instrument cluster.
- Connected car technology with over‑the‑air (OTA) software update capability.
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charger and ventilated front seats in higher variants.
- Comfort features such as a panoramic sunroof are also expected.
Safety and driver assistance
Hyundai is likely to equip the SUV with a wide set of safety features, including:
- Level‑2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) such as adaptive cruise control and lane‑keeping assistance, depending on variant.
- Around 6 airbags and standard passive safety equipment.
- A 360‑degree camera system to aid parking and low‑speed manoeuvres.
Market competition
In the Indian market, this new Hyundai electric SUV is expected to compete directly with:
- Tata Nexon EV and **Tata Punch EV** (compact EV SUVs).
- **Mahindra XUV 3XO EV** and other upcoming compact EVs.
For Nepali buyers, this model, if imported, would sit in the same broad segment as these rivals and other future compact EV SUVs, offering long range (potentially 500+ km), modern safety tech and a size suitable for city use and highway trips.
Exact battery capacities, power output and final prices have not yet been officially confirmed and may change before launch. Details mentioned above are based on current media reports and testing information, and Hyundai's official specifications will give the final picture closer to the SUV's India debut.
Current prices on Nepal AutoMart
- Tata Nexon EV K3 price in Nepal: Rs 48.99 lakh ex-showroom
- Tata Punch EV price in Nepal: Rs 33.99 lakh – Rs 39.99 lakh ex-showroom, 4 variants
- Mahindra XUV 3XO price in Nepal: Rs 44.9 lakh – Rs 59 lakh ex-showroom, 8 variants
Reported by the Nepal AutoMart news desk. Prices verified against Nepal AutoMart's own distributor-sourced data.
