A new HE1i compact EV has recently been captured during road tests in India. This is the best image that we have ever seen about the future affordable electric SUV being developed by Hyundai.
Boxy Styling Alongside Intrinsically-Inspired Features
The test car comes dressed in heavy camouflage, but we can still see that it has a tall and boxy design that will help provide enough space inside even though it is a small vehicle. Its front end comprises a rounded design with LED DRLs positioned above dual-pod LED headlights.
Some of the other features visible through spy images include large alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, roof rails and a shark fin antenna. It is safe to say that the overall design is inspired by the Inster EV of Hyundai globally, but at the same time has styling features of new Hyundai vehicles.
Confirmation Of Sunroof And ADAS
Two of the most important features that have been fitted into the test car are the sunroof and the ADAS hardware. Hyundai has also confirmed that the EV will come with Level 2 assisted driving capability along with an upgraded infotainment system.
Some other features that are expected to be part of the package include dual screens, connected car capability, wireless smartphone integration, and ventilation seats, among others.
Two Battery Choices
HE1i will be available in standard range and long range variants. However, battery capacity for both of these range variants has not been disclosed by Hyundai yet. The HE1i will employ the E-GMP (K) platform that powers the Inster EV globally as well.
India specific electric vehicles will be made at Hyundai’s manufacturing unit at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu.
Expected Price And Competitors
The HE1i is expected to be launched before the end of 2026 with an expected price tag of ₹10 lakh. The car will be up against other cars like Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Kia Syros EV and MG Windsor EV.
Our Verdict
The HE1i can turn out to be a significant offering from Hyundai as it dives into the world of affordable electric vehicles. The compact SUV design, choice of batteries, level 2 ADAS and the expected price tag of ₹10 lakh make this vehicle very clear about who it aims at.
The final details regarding the battery capacity, range, variants and prices remain unknown, however, the recent spy shots reveal all of this and more about the upcoming compact EV from Hyundai.