Key highlights
- Hyundai’s new compact electric SUV has leaked online ahead of its expected year-end debut.
- Codenamed HE1i, it will use the E-GMP (K) platform and be offered in standard and long-range versions.
- The new EV will rival the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV in India.
Hyundai’s upcoming compact electric SUV has surfaced online ahead of its official debut in India. Internally known as the HE1i, the new EV is expected to arrive by the end of 2026 and will give Hyundai a more accessible electric offering below the Creta Electric.
What to expect?
The leaked images reveal a fairly upright and SUV-like design. The front gets a split headlamp setup, with LED daytime running lights connected by a black element. The main LED headlamps sit lower on the bumper, which also features a two-tone treatment.
At the rear, the HE1i features square-shaped LED tail lamps integrated into a black strip. The SUV also gets a flat roof, roof rails, blacked-out A-, B- and C-pillars, conventional pull-type door handles and flared wheel arches. The leaked vehicle is seen with dual-tone alloy wheels.
The overall design appears relatively clean and conventional, rather than following the more polarising styling seen on some of Hyundai’s newer models.
Platform
Underneath, the HE1i will use Hyundai’s E-GMP (K) architecture, the platform also used by the international-spec Inster EV. Hyundai has confirmed that the India-specific EV will be available in standard-range and long-range versions, although battery capacities and official range figures have not yet been revealed.
The company is also expected to equip the EV with a next-generation infotainment system and Level 2 assisted driving technology. Production will take place at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu.
The HE1i will enter an increasingly competitive compact EV segment, taking on models such as the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. The Kia Syros EV is also expected to become a key rival.
Final thoughts
The leaked images suggest Hyundai is taking a fairly conventional approach with its smallest electric SUV. With local production, multiple battery options and modern technology, the HE1i could become an important volume model for Hyundai as it looks to expand its presence in India’s EV market.
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