Hyundai Creta EV: The Electric Revolution in SUVs
After much anticipation, South Korean automaker Hyundai has officially unveiled the electric version of its popular SUV, the Hyundai Creta EV. The launch took place at the India Mobility Global Expo, held at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi’s Pragati Maidan. With a starting price of ₹17.99 lakh, the Creta EV promises to shake up the electric SUV market. Let’s dive into what makes this vehicle stand out.
A Fresh Take on Design
The Hyundai Creta EV retains much of the look and feel of its petrol and diesel-powered counterparts. The body panels remain largely unchanged, but subtle updates give the EV its own identity.
Key design changes include:
- New Front and Rear Bumpers: Featuring pixel-inspired detailing.
- Covered Front Grille: A signature feature of electric vehicles.
- Aero-Optimized Alloy Wheels: Designed to enhance efficiency.
- Integrated Charging Port: Conveniently positioned on the front bumper.
Inside, the Creta EV impresses with its modern and tech-forward interior. The dual 10.25-inch screen setup takes center stage, offering an intuitive infotainment experience. Borrowing inspiration from the Kona Electric, the SUV also features a sleek steering wheel and a redesigned floating center console.
Premium features include:
- Panoramic Sunroof for a luxurious feel.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Technology, allowing the car to power external devices.
- 360-Degree Camera for enhanced safety.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
- Hyundai Digital Key for keyless convenience.
Impressive Dimensions
The Hyundai Creta EV offers generous proportions, making it a practical choice for families:
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,330 mm |
| Width | 1,790 mm |
| Height | 1,635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,610 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm |
To accommodate the battery pack, Hyundai made adjustments to the suspension and slightly raised the SUV’s height and ground clearance. The Creta EV stands 20 mm taller than its ICE (internal combustion engine) version, while ground clearance is up by 10 mm, ensuring better road presence and practicality.
Battery Options and Range
The Hyundai Creta EV offers two battery pack options, catering to different range needs:
- 42 kWh Battery Pack: Provides an ARAI-certified range of 390 km.
- 51.4 kWh Battery Pack: Delivers an impressive range of 473 km.
Hyundai claims that the long-range version can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds. The Creta EV also comes with three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—ensuring an adaptable driving experience. A steering column-mounted drive mode selector, similar to the Ioniq 5, adds a touch of sophistication.
Quick Charging for Convenience
Charging the Creta EV is both fast and efficient:
- DC Fast Charging: Recharges the battery from 10% to 80% in just 58 minutes.
- 11 kW AC Wall Charger: Fully charges the battery (10% to 100%) in just 4 hours.
With multiple charging options, Hyundai ensures that the Creta EV fits seamlessly into urban and suburban lifestyles.
Variants and Colors
The Creta EV will be available in four variants: Executive, Smart, Premium, and Excellence. Buyers can choose from 8 monotone and 2 dual-tone color options, including 3 matte finishes for a stylish and personalized look.
The Competition
Hyundai has been working on the Creta EV for some time, and the SUV has been spotted testing on several occasions. Once launched, it will compete with:
- Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara (Maruti’s first electric SUV).
- Mahindra BE.06, a highly anticipated electric SUV from Mahindra.
- Tata Curvv EV, a futuristic offering from Tata Motors.
Why the Hyundai Creta EV Stands Out
Hyundai’s decision to use a Lithium Metal Composite (LMC) battery pack instead of the widely used Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) technology sets the Creta EV apart. The LMC battery pack offers superior energy density, enabling greater range and performance without compromising on size or weight.
Coupled with advanced features like ADAS, V2L technology, and quick charging capabilities, the Creta EV delivers a comprehensive package for modern-day electric vehicle enthusiasts.
Pricing and Availability
With a starting price of ₹17.99 lakh, the Hyundai Creta EV aims to bring premium electric mobility within reach of a larger audience. Its blend of design, features, and performance makes it a compelling option in the growing electric SUV segment.
Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Creta EV marks a significant milestone for Hyundai as it pushes deeper into the EV market. With competitive pricing, impressive range options, and a feature-packed offering, the Creta EV is poised to set new benchmarks for electric SUVs in India.
As the electric vehicle landscape evolves, the Creta EV not only adds another feather to Hyundai’s cap but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting future for electric mobility in India.
