Hyundai has introduced the Creta Electric, its first model equipped with locally assembled battery packs. Manufactured at Hyundai’s Chennai plant in collaboration with Mobis India Limited, the Creta Electric offers two battery options: a 42kWh unit and a 51.4kWh unit.
Advancing Localisation in Manufacturing
Hyundai Motor India has achieved a remarkable 92% localisation in its manufacturing process, with plans to extend this to drivetrain and electronic components. The Chennai facility, which assembles both NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt Oxide) and LFP (Lithium-Iron-Phosphate) battery packs, has an initial annual capacity of 75,000 units.
Key localised components include alloy wheels, disc brakes, catalytic converters, and clutch assemblies. Additionally, features like panoramic sunroofs, shark fin antennas, and reverse parking sensors are also sourced from domestic vendors, underscoring Hyundai’s commitment to local partnerships.
Creta Electric: Specifications and Charging
The Creta Electric boasts two battery configurations:
- 42kWh: Offers a certified range of 390km and 136hp motor output.
- 51.4kWh: Delivers a range of 473km with 171hp motor output.
With a 50kW DC fast charger, both batteries achieve a 10-80% charge in just 58 minutes. An 11kW charger takes 4 hours for the smaller battery and 4.5 hours for the larger one.
Hyundai’s EV Strategy and Market Goals
Hyundai aims to capture a market share in the EV segment similar to its 14-15% share in the ICE market. Tarun Garg, COO of Hyundai Motor India, highlighted the Creta’s strong performance in the SUV category as a foundation for its EV ambitions.
“The localisation of batteries, coupled with our adaptable production systems, positions us to respond swiftly to market demand,” Garg noted. By 2030, Hyundai anticipates the EV market share in India could grow to 17%, with the Creta Electric playing a pivotal role.
Pricing and Future Plans
Priced from ₹17.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Creta Electric leverages Hyundai’s extensive technological expertise and economies of scale. Plans are underway to localise the production of drivetrains, electronics, and additional battery components, further enhancing affordability and supply chain efficiency.
Hyundai’s aggressive push in the EV space, led by the Creta Electric, reflects its vision for a more sustainable automotive future in India.
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