Hyundai HE1i Electric SUV Spied With Variant Headlamps

Hyundai's upcoming compact electric SUV, codenamed HE1i, has been spotted in two separate sightings. The prototypes reveal new details about potential variant-specific lighting and charging infrastructure testing. One vehicle was photographed at a Hyundai fast-charging station in Vijayawada, while another was seen undergoing road tests.

According to the source, Dr. Md. Iftequar Ali shared the charging-station images. He noted that the Hyundai team at the location was enquiring about the availability of a 120 kW charging connector. The station in question lists two DC charging units rated at 180 kW and 120 kW. The current Hyundai Creta Electric sold in India supports 100 kW DC fast charging. The tester's enquiry does not confirm the HE1i's own peak charging rate, as a vehicle can connect to a higher-rated charger while drawing less power. Hyundai has not announced the model's charging specifications.

Two Headlamp Configurations Spied

A comparison of the two prototypes suggests Hyundai may be testing different lighting packages for various trim levels. The SUV spotted at the charging station appears to have slim horizontal lighting elements inside its lower headlamp housing. The road-going test mule, photographed by Reddit user u/lightnextnow, shows a larger projector-style assembly in the same position. Both vehicles share a similar slim upper lighting strip, confirming a split-headlamp design overall.

Design And Expected Features

Both heavily camouflaged prototypes display a boxy profile with an upright cabin, large windows, and a relatively flat roofline. They ride on geometric dual-tone alloy wheels, with the road-going version also showing roof rails. Earlier spy shots of the interior have hinted at a large central touchscreen accompanied by a slim driver display. Hyundai has indicated this compact EV will feature next-generation infotainment and Level 2 ADAS. The technology package is expected to include Pleos Connect.

Platform, Launch, And Localisation

The HE1i is reported to use Hyundai's E-GMP (K) architecture and has been linked to the internationally sold Inster model. The Inster offers 42 kWh and 49 kWh battery options, but neither has been confirmed for the Indian variant. The certified range and charging times for the HE1i remain unknown.

Localisation is expected to be key for pricing. Hyundai's battery-sourcing plans reportedly include a future transition to locally manufactured Exide cells. The vehicle will be built at Hyundai's Sriperumbudur plant in Tamil Nadu.

The compact electric SUV is expected to debut by the end of 2026. Its market launch is anticipated at the Bharat Mobility Auto Expo in February 2027. It will sit below the Creta Electric in Hyundai's lineup, offering a smaller electric SUV alternative.