- Based on the standard Punch
- No launch timeline specified
Tata Motors recently exhibited a flex-fuel version of the Punch at the Bharat Mobility Expo. Here's all that is different (or similar for that matter) from its existing iterations.
Primarily, the most important changes have been made in the engine. The existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine has been modified for ethanol-blended fuels. With the help of an advanced engine control system and smart software, it automatically adjusts to different ethanol blends even on the go. There's 'smart ethanol percentage detection', which helps transition between these ethanol blends. Moreover, the combination of a heated fuel injection system and high-flow injectors helps with seamless cold starts, even when ambient temperatures are low. Besides, emission of harmful gases is reduced, thanks to an advanced exhaust after-treatment system.
Visually, the Tata Punch flex-fuel is identical to the standard Punch. After all, the Punch has proved to be the top-selling vehicle in India and its looks have played a major role in its success. Apart from these mechanical changes, we do not anticipate any change in design, barring the addition of a flex-fuel badge. When launched, it will be an interesting proposition, as the Tata Punch flex-fuel can run on 100 per cent ethanol, unlike the competing Mahindra XUV 3X0 that will run on ethanol-blended fuel of up to 85 per cent.
