Old Charm, New Charge

With a multitude of electric vehicle (EV) models unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, it's evident that India is on the brink of an EV revolution.

- Lakshmi C Pillai

So far, brands like Tata Motors, Mahindra, MG Motor India, and BYD have dominated the EV landscape, while automotive giants like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai have been notably absent from the mass EV market. However, this is about to change. Now, Hyundai has unveiled the electric version of its mid-size SUV king, the Creta, and Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the e-Vitara.

Last week, I checked out the Creta Electric in Chennai, ahead of its official debut at the auto expo 2025. Here are my first impressions.

DNA intact

Hyundai has preserved everything that makes the Creta a beloved mid-size SUV—its shape, size, cabin, and performance. Fans of the traditional Creta will find themselves drawn to this avatar.

Visual appeal

The Creta Electric's design exudes modernity, with subtle yet striking updates that differentiate it from its internal combustion siblings.

Front profile: The traditional porous grille and air dam have been replaced with a sleek, closed grille with a pixelated pattern. The charging point is hidden behind the Hyundai logo. Air curtains on the bumper open when additional cooling is required by the powertrain.