Two Powerful Electric SUVs Arriving in 2026 – Kia Syros EV and Hyundai HE1i

The image shows the test mule of the Kia Sirose EV, which was recently spotted in camouflage on Indian roads. This will be Kia's smallest and most affordable electric SUV, which is expected to come in the range of Rs 15 to 20 lakh. The Cirrus EV will be launched in August 2026, making it Kia's second mass-market EV.

This is a photo of the Hyundai HE1i, which was caught on camera during testing in Chennai. The 'i' stands for 'India', which means the SUV is specifically designed for India. The HE1i will be priced between Rs 10 to 15 lakh and will rival the Tata Punch EV. The company plans to manufacture it at its Chennai plant and export it to Europe.

The image features the facelifted version of the Tata Punch EV, which became the country's best-selling electric car in May 2026. The 2026 Punch EV comes with 30kWh and 40kWh battery packs, with a starting price of Rs 9.69 lakh. The 40kWh variant offers an ARAI range of up to 468km, while the real-world range is 355km.

The camouflage image clearly shows the boxy design of the HE1i. It features sharp horizontal LED taillamps, roof-mounted spoiler and tilted windshield. The HE1i will come with advanced features like pixel-style LED DRLs, large front bumper, flush door handles and roof rails. This design makes it perfect for urban use.

The image shows the K1 platform, which is the backbone of the Cirrus EV. This platform is shared with the ICE Cirose, and that is why the EV version will not be much different from the petrol-diesel model in appearance. With 42kWh and 49kWh battery packs, the Cirose EV can deliver a range of up to 400km. Interestingly, this K1 platform also supports the Hyundai Inster EV.

This image is of Hyundai's E-GMP (K) platform, which will be the base of the HE1i. The HE1i could come with a battery pack of 42kWh and 49kWh. It will have a motor with a power of 97hp to 115hp, which will generate 147Nm of torque. The SUV will offer a range of up to 355km, which is good enough for daily work and short trips.

The image shows the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, which will be a big feature of the Cirose EV. In addition, the Cirose EV can also get vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) charging. The 10.25 -inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system will also add to the elegance of the cabin. However, the ADAS feature is yet to be decided as it was removed from ICE Cirrus.

In this picture is the Tata Nexon EV, one of India's most loved electric SUVs. The price of the Nexon EV starts at Rs 14.79 lakh. The Kia Sirose EV will rival the likes of the Mahindra XUV3XO EV and the Mahindra XUV300. All three cars will compete head-to-head in terms of battery capacity and features.

In the image, both the entry-level EVs are seen together. The Hyundai HE1i will compete with the Tata Punch EV (Rs 9.69-12.59 lakh) in the Rs 10-15 lakh range Both will have batteries up to 40kWh, but Hyundai's E-GMP platform in the HE1i will give it a distinct identity. The Punch EV has a lifetime battery warranty, which the HE1i could also have.

Although the pictures are not yet out, but according to experts, the interior of the Cirrus EV will be the same as the ICE version. It features a 10.25 -inch dual display, panoramic sunroof, leatherette upholstery, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Safety features include 6 airbags, 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist.

Test mules of the HE1i were recently spotted in Mumbai and Chennai. Despite the heavy camouflage, its sturdy stance and compact size are clearly visible. This image suggests that the HE1i is in the final testing phase and could be launched by the end of the year. The company will also manufacture and export it in India, which will give a boost to 'Make in India'.