Hyundai Creta Electric Debuts: A highly expected model finally comes into the auto market; the Hyundai Creta Electric which is a class of electric version of Hyundai’s best-seller SUV. It can be considered as one of the most successful SUVs in India which means it has to meet certain expectations. The idea was to ensure Hyundai would continue the Creta’s success as the EV age approached to slowly take over the market. This article will give you all that you need to know about the car’s design, features and how it performs on the road.
Striking Exterior Upgrades
The Hyundai Creta Electric looks mostly like the ICE version but has some modifications dedicated to electric cars. The changes include a blanked-off patterned grille reminiscent of the gaming screen, and the charging flap is neatly hidden under the Hyundai emblem. Functional air curtains on the bumper just make it even more efficient, and new 17-inch aero-style wheels give it a science fiction look.
The back has little change with the only tweaks being in the bumper and being labelled as ‘electric’. Despite the appearance retaining a clear link back to the Creta’s roots, it all feels a little fresher and more contemporary, and that much has been done to evoke the themes of environmental friendliness that should be well received in the Indian market.
Familiar but Updated Cabin
On the inside, Creta Electric is quite similar to ICE model where it now adapts new elements which are unique for the car’s EV model. The EV-specific digital displays feature 12.3-inch non-touchscreens and are split into two – infotainment and instrument cluster – in the car’s dashboard In addition to buttons on the rim and center spokes of the new three-spoke multi-function steering wheel replacing the Hyundai emblem with Morse code.
The most prominent element of interior design remains the centre console which is floating and equipped with an illuminated decoration, drive mode selector and additional storage. The convenience add-ons are dual-zone climate control, a largest-in-class sunroof, wireless charging, and 360-degree camera. Front seats are cooled and exercised by manual controls with a program of regulated cowling and a power-built-in navigator of the driver’s seat.
Passengers in the rear are also given conveniences of dual USB-C ports, sunblinds, reclining seatings and a flat floor to boot. The boot gives a 433-litre capacity, while an innovative 21-litre front boot, or frunk, adds an extra layer of usability.
Hyundai Creta Electric Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Creta Electric is available with two battery options: a 42kWh pack and a 51.4kWh long-range pack for the same car. Each drives a single, front-axle motor, providing 133bhp and 169bhp respectively. The long-range variant comes with an astonishing futuristic autonomy of 473 kilometers.
Driving modes include; economy, normal and sports, these modes are distinct. Eco is set to minimize fuel consumption while traveling long distance, Normal is a middle ground between efficiency and power. The SUV becomes as vivacious as a sports utility vehicle in terms of performance when operated under Sport mode with accelerations of 0-100 kmph in 7.9 seconds. However, putting your foot to the metal may cause considerable torque steer.
It’s comfortable and quiet with admirable ride condition and minimal bumping. Stopping power is good with all-wheel disc brakes, although it might use its bite to even better effect. Body roll and understeer during spirited driving speak more volume about the comfort than anything close to sports.
Verdict
The Hyundai Creta Electric is a good start in the EV market in India. The Camry has well-established brand images, borders on spacious interior, has numerous features, and an impressive range for daily city use and for long-distance travel. Although now there are already more C-segment EV models that boast higher range ratings, the Creta Electric’s conventional set-up could make it more than a worthy contender.
If ‘mile planning’ to switch to EVs or buy an economical family-look SUV with green tint, the Hyundai Creta Electric can be a probable contender for places in the garage.
