In a significant boost to India’s electric vehicle ecosystem, Hyundai India to Utilise TN Facility for the production of its upcoming sub-4-metre electric SUV. Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL) has officially confirmed that its manufacturing facility at Sriperumbudur near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, will serve as the production base for the highly anticipated mass-market EV.
The announcement reinforces Tamil Nadu’s growing importance as Hyundai’s primary electric vehicle hub and forms a crucial part of the company’s ambitious ₹26,000 crore investment plan in the state between 2023 and 2032.
New Compact EV to Target Mass-Market Buyers
The upcoming electric SUV, internally codenamed HE1i, is being developed specifically for the Indian market. Industry reports suggest that the vehicle will be built on Hyundai’s affordable global E-GMP (K) platform, which also underpins the internationally sold Hyundai Inster EV.
The compact electric SUV is expected to rival popular models such as the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Punch EV, and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. Hyundai is reportedly targeting a launch around Diwali 2026, making it one of the most-awaited EV launches in India.
Two Battery Pack Options and Over 300 km Range
As part of its strategy to attract a wide range of buyers, the EV is expected to offer two battery pack options. While official specifications are yet to be revealed, industry estimates indicate battery capacities of around 42kWh and 49kWh.
These battery configurations could deliver a driving range of more than 300 kilometres on a single charge. The powertrain is expected to share similarities with the Hyundai Inster EV, offering outputs ranging from approximately 95 bhp to 113 bhp, along with 147 Nm of torque.
Strong Localisation and Advanced Technology
A major highlight of the project is Hyundai’s aggressive localization strategy. Hyundai India to utilize TN Facility while aiming to achieve up to 90 percent localization within the next five to six years. Battery packs will be locally assembled through Hyundai’s partnership with Exide, helping reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
The new electric SUV is also expected to feature Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), positioning it among the more technologically advanced offerings in the compact EV segment.
Tamil Nadu Emerging as Hyundai’s EV Manufacturing Hub
The decision by Hyundai India to utilise the TN Facility goes beyond vehicle production. Hyundai has already established Tamil Nadu’s first dedicated battery sub-assembly plant for EV powertrains and continues to strengthen the local EV ecosystem.
The company has also deployed a public DC fast-charging network across key transit routes in the state, featuring 39 charging stations and 78 charging points. Additionally, Hyundai expects nearly ₹4,000 crore in downstream procurement value from local suppliers, potentially creating around 2,000 new jobs.
With Hyundai India to utilise the TN Facility as its EV manufacturing and export hub, the company is positioning itself strongly for the next phase of India’s rapidly growing electric mobility market.
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