Tata Altroz EV Still in the Works: Launch Delayed, Platform Shared with Punch EV

Tata Altroz EV : Still in Development, Launch Pushed Further

After its first appearance at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show and a near-production preview at Auto Expo 2020, the Tata Altroz EV remains in Tata Motors’ EV roadmap. Recently confirmed to be internally codenamed ‘Ascot’, this all-electric premium hatchback was initially expected to be the second EV offering after the Nexon EV.

However, multiple delays — mainly due to battery packaging challenges — have pushed its timeline further. Ground clearance constraints caused by the underfloor battery setup led to a drop from 165mm to 145mm, compromising its hatchback stance.

What’s Causing the Delay?

The Acti.EV architecture, which underpins both the Altroz EV and Punch EV, initially posed a challenge for Altroz due to:

• Limited space for battery under the flat floor.
• Reduced ground clearance that affected ride height and aesthetics.
• Tata refusing to raise the body height to maintain the signature Altroz silhouette.

Tata Motors has now shifted focus to revising the Punch EV platform to better accommodate a larger battery pack, which could potentially solve the Altroz EV's packaging issues as well.

Shared Architecture with Tata Punch EV

The Tata Altroz EV and updated Punch EV will both use the brand’s modular Acti.EV platform. Here’s what to expect:

This move ensures component standardisation, faster development cycles, and optimises cost-efficiency for Tata’s mass-market EV strategy.

What’s Next: Tata’s Larger EV Game Plan

Besides the Altroz EV, Tata Motors is actively working on the next-gen Harrier EV (Taurus) and Safari EV (Leo) — both based on an all-new, flexible platform that can support:

• EV + ICE powertrains
• All-wheel drive (AWD) compatibility
• Increased overall size and cabin space

This will allow Tata to compete more aggressively with Mahindra’s INGLO platform and upcoming BE-series SUVs.

Analyst Insight: Cannibalisation Not a Concern

Although the Altroz EV and Punch EV may overlap in pricing, they’re targeted at different audience segments. Altroz caters to urban premium hatchback buyers, while Punch targets crossover enthusiasts. Tata Motors is strategically differentiating the two to avoid internal competition and expand its total addressable market.

Final Word

The Tata Altroz EV  remains very much alive in Tata’s EV roadmap. Despite delays, its debut — now expected post the updated Punch EV facelift in late 2025 — will strengthen Tata’s position in the electric hatchback segment.

Stay tuned to EVINDIA for exclusive Tata EV updates, comparisons, and official launch timelines.