Introduction
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) has become a common aspiration for car owners seeking efficiency, lower costs, and environmental responsibility. In this review, we dive into Deepti Rajput’s ownership experience with the Tata Punch EV, exploring everything from her decision-making process to her day-to-day life with the car. Interviewed by Aman from MOTORBYTE, Deepti’s insights reveal the highs, lows, and nuances of transitioning to EV ownership.
Why Tata Punch EV? A Thoughtful Decision
Deepti’s decision to choose Tata’s Punch EV wasn’t a casual one. After years of research and considering various brands, she was drawn to the Punch EV for its sturdy build, impressive technology, and Tata’s dedication to electric innovation. She shared that her journey began with a strong desire to own a Tata vehicle—largely inspired by her admiration for Mr. Ratan Tata’s legacy and commitment to quality in Indian-made cars.
“It wasn’t the car sold to me; I was sold to the car,” Deepti remarks, reflecting her confidence in Tata’s vision and engineering prowess.
Pre-Delivery and Installation: The EV Setup Process
After Deepti decided to purchase the Tata Punch EV, the initial process of home preparation for the car’s charging needs started. To avoid any hassle post-delivery, she arranged for Tata’s team to inspect her home’s power setup.
Initially, the dealership confirmed that her single-phase, 3-kilowatt domestic meter was adequate, needing only earthing for the installation. However, after delivery, the installer informed her that her meter wouldn’t support the charging system. Consequently, she quickly upgraded to a 6-kilowatt three-phase meter, which took a month and a half due to electricity board processes.
In the interim, Tata accommodated her with free charging at the dealership. Though occasionally inconvenient due to limited slots, Deepti appreciated their flexibility and customer service.
Day-to-Day Driving Experience
For Deepti, owning an EV is not just about lower fuel costs but a fundamentally enjoyable driving experience. The instant torque of the Punch EV is a highlight, making city driving smooth and responsive. She typically drives in Eco mode, where she achieves a range of around 290 to 300 kilometers—ideal for her daily urban commute.
Handling and Stability
The Punch EV’s robust build ensures stability, especially given its weight due to the battery pack. Deepti shared her experience driving the car at speeds around 130 km/h on highways and commended its exceptional stability and handling.
“It’s not flaunting; it’s just that the car feels incredibly stable,” she noted when discussing her experience on high-speed drives.
Navigating Extreme Weather: A Water-Wading Experience
Living in Gurgaon, where heavy rains often lead to waterlogging, Deepti found herself facing extreme road conditions. Remarkably, the Punch EV’s design allowed it to wade through water levels that reached the door handles—leaving Deepti impressed and relieved. Other vehicles, including some SUVs, stalled, but the Punch EV moved through confidently. This feature, alongside the high ground clearance, adds to the car’s appeal for urban environments prone to weather challenges.
Cost Savings and Efficiency
Deepti’s transition to EV ownership has translated to significant monthly savings. With her previous fuel costs around ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per month, her Punch EV has reduced her monthly electricity bill to ₹3,000 (from an earlier ₹2,000), covering both household and car charging.
This shift has allowed her to save around ₹8,000 per month. With the EMI for the car at ₹36,000, she estimates that her total savings over four years will balance the cost of the vehicle.
“For me, driving an EV isn’t just economical—it’s a long-term investment in sustainable, efficient transport,” Deepti added.
Maintenance and Service Experience
Deepti’s experience with Tata’s service centers has been overwhelmingly positive, countering the common perception that Tata’s service is subpar. She acknowledges that a high demand for Tata vehicles has stretched service resources, yet her interactions have been respectful and efficient. She believes that mutual respect and patience with service advisors contribute greatly to customer satisfaction.
“People have high expectations, but staying calm and respectful with the service advisors really helps,” Deepti explained.
The Punch EV’s maintenance has also been hassle-free so far, with regular services spaced out well due to the electric motor’s simpler upkeep compared to traditional engines.
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Drawbacks: Room for Improvement
While Deepti’s experience has been positive overall, there are a few areas where she feels improvements could be made. For instance, she would have preferred a spare tire (stepney) as a standard inclusion, given its importance in emergency scenarios. While the car comes with a tire puncture kit, she believes a spare would enhance safety further.
The dealership experience during delivery also had a minor oversight: the cake-cutting ceremony, a customary celebration at many Tata showrooms, didn’t happen for Deepti. She humorously mentioned that the dealership kept promising a cake that never arrived.
Summing Up: A Personal and Practical Investment
Deepti’s ownership of the Tata Punch EV is more than a transaction; it’s a personal journey influenced by her respect for Tata’s legacy and commitment to Indian-made products. From overcoming initial setup challenges to experiencing the thrill of electric power, Deepti has embraced her Punch EV wholeheartedly.
The car’s economical, sustainable, and resilient nature aligns with her lifestyle and future vision. Her only advice to potential buyers: do your research, trust your own needs, and choose the right EV for you—not merely based on others’ opinions.
A Tribute to Ratan Tata
During the interview, Aman and Deepti took a moment to honor Ratan Tata, who recently passed away. Deepti expressed her admiration for his impact on Indian industry and her appreciation for his role in the Tata brand’s evolution. For her, purchasing a Tata car was a way to honor his legacy and philosophy.
“I hope Tata Group continues to follow the path he envisioned, creating products that make a lasting impact,” Deepti shared as a final thought.
Conclusion
Deepti Rajput’s Tata Punch EV ownership story offers valuable insights for anyone considering an EV, particularly the Punch EV. Her journey shows that with the right research, patience, and adaptability, transitioning to electric can be seamless and fulfilling. Whether you’re considering an EV for environmental reasons, cost savings, or the unique driving experience, Deepti’s review highlights the practicality and joy of going electric with Tata.