Aiming to tap India’s mass-market electric vehicle (EV) segment, Hyundai and Kia are gearing up to launch two new models in the coming months. Kia India is set to launch the Syros EV in August 2026, while Hyundai’s new electric micro SUV (codenamed HE1i) is likely to arrive within the current financial year. Both models will be the smallest and most affordable electric SUVs from their respective brands.
In terms of pricing and positioning, the upcoming Kia Syros EV will rival the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. Meanwhile, the Hyundai HE1i will take on the Tata Punch EV and Citroen eC3. Here’s a closer look at the key details of these upcoming affordable electric SUVs.
Kia Syros EV
Expected Price – Rs 15 lakh – Rs 18 lakh
Official powertrain specifications of the Kia Syros EV are yet to be revealed. However, the model is likely to be offered with 42kWh and 49kWh battery pack options, borrowed from the Hyundai Inster EV sold globally. The Inster EV delivers a claimed range of up to 400km on a single charge. The Syros EV could be equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) functionalities.
Visually, the Kia Syros EV is expected to look largely similar to its ICE-counterpart. However, a few EV-specific elements will differentiate it. The interior layout and feature list are also expected to be carried over from the standard Syros.
Hyundai HE1i
Expected Price – Rs 10 lakh – Rs 15 lakh
Recently, the upcoming Hyundai compact electric SUV was spied at a charging station alongside the Tata Nexon EV. The test mule featured sharp horizontally positioned LED taillamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, and a slightly raked windshield. Other noticeable design elements include pixel-style top-mounted LED DRLs, pronounced front bumper, a large flat roof with roof rails, circular wheel arches, flush door handles, a rear view camera and rear parking sensors.
Based on Hyundai’s E-GMP (K) platform, the upcoming Hyundai compact EV is expected to be offered with two trims – Standard Ragne with a 42kWH battery pack and Long Range with a 49kWh battery pack. The EV is likely to offer range of up to 355km on a full charge.