Key highlights
- Hyundai has filed a trademark for the Ioniq P name in India, potentially revealing the name of its upcoming compact electric SUV.
- Internally codenamed HE1i, the EV is expected to become Hyundai’s most affordable electric car in India.
- Likely to arrive in early 2027 with standard-range and long-range battery options, Level 2 ADAS and a next-generation infotainment system.
Hyundai’s upcoming mass-market electric SUV could be called the Ioniq P. The carmaker has filed a trademark for the name in India, adding weight to speculation surrounding its upcoming compact EV, which is internally codenamed HE1i.
Interestingly, the Ioniq P name was also mentioned by Hyundai management during its Q3 2026 analyst call, when discussing the company’s upcoming product plans for India. However, Hyundai has not officially confirmed that this will be the production name of the HE1i. The trademark application is currently under review.
Hyundai’s most affordable electric car for India
The upcoming EV is expected to sit below the Creta Electric in Hyundai’s Indian portfolio. Unlike an electric version of an existing ICE model, the HE1i is being developed as a standalone electric vehicle.
It is expected to use Hyundai’s E-GMP (K) platform, which also underpins the globally available Inster EV. The compact SUV has been spotted testing in India and abroad, revealing a boxy, upright silhouette, distinctive LED lighting and dual-tone alloy wheels.
The production model is expected to be manufactured at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu.
Two battery options and modern technology
Hyundai is expected to offer the Ioniq P with standard-range and long-range battery options. The company has not revealed the battery capacities, motor output or claimed range for the India-spec model.
For reference, the international Inster is available with 42 kWh and 49 kWh battery packs. However, it would be premature to assume that the Ioniq P will use the same configurations.
Expected launch and rivals
The Hyundai Ioniq P is expected to make its India debut in early 2027, potentially in January. Once launched, it will compete with electric SUVs such as the Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and Kia Syros EV.
Pricing has not been announced, but its positioning below the Creta Electric suggests that Hyundai will target the more accessible end of the electric SUV market.
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