The 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season was a nail-biting affair, culminating in a thrilling victory for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). But amidst the on-field action, there was one moment that captured the hearts of fans and went viral online – Ellyse Perry’s mammoth six that shattered the window of the official WPL car, the Tata Punch EV.
This unexpected incident not only showcased Perry’s power-hitting prowess but also resulted in a unique memento for the Australian cricketer. Let’s delve deeper into this story and explore the Tata Punch EV’s role in the WPL.
The Punch EV: A Shining Star on the WPL Stage
For the 2024 WPL season, Tata Motors secured the official car sponsorship. The stylish and compact Tata Punch EV, known for its efficiency and performance, became a fixture on the sidelines at every match. Strategically positioned near the boundary, the Punch EV served as a visual reminder of Tata’s commitment to electric mobility.
However, during a match between RCB and UP Warriorz at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, fate (and some serious power-hitting) had a different plan.
A Six for the History Books (and Broken Windows)
Ellyse Perry, the renowned Australian all-rounder, unleashed a monstrous six that soared high into the stands. Unfortunately, the ball’s trajectory took an unexpected turn, connecting squarely with the rear window of the parked Tata Punch EV. The impact shattered the glass, leaving a surprised Perry and a slightly worse-for-wear car.
The entire incident, captured on video, quickly went viral. Fans were awestruck by Perry’s powerful shot, while some found humor in the unexpected consequence. The video spread like wildfire on social media platforms, highlighting both the explosive nature of the game and the durability of the ball.
A Memorable Gift: From Broken Glass to Framed Glory
While the broken window might have been an unintended consequence, Tata Motors saw an opportunity to create a lasting memory for Perry. Shortly before the WPL 2024 finals, the company presented Perry with a unique and personalized gift – the shattered glass remnants from the Punch EV, carefully framed as a memento.
This gesture not only displayed Tata’s sense of humor but also celebrated Perry’s exceptional performance. The framed broken glass served as a permanent reminder of her powerful six and the viral moment it created.
Beyond the Viral Moment: The Tata Punch EV Makes its Mark
While the broken window incident garnered much attention, it’s important to remember the Tata Punch EV’s core strengths. This compact electric SUV offers a compelling proposition for eco-conscious drivers seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and affordability.
Here’s a closer look at the Tata Punch EV’s key features:
Battery Options: The Punch EV comes in two battery pack configurations – a 25 kWh MR (medium range) and a 35 kWh LR (long range) option. These cater to diverse driving needs, offering a claimed MIDC range of 315 km for the MR and 421 km for the LR variant.
Power and Performance: The Punch EV packs a punch (pun intended) with two electric motor options. The MR variant delivers 82 PS of power and 114 Nm of torque, while the LR variant boasts a more potent 122 PS and 190 Nm of torque. This translates to a peppy and responsive driving experience, ideal for city commutes and occasional highway trips.
Features and Safety: The Punch EV isn’t all about performance; it prioritizes passenger comfort and safety. The cabin features a modern design with amenities such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital driver’s display, an electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, cruise control, and an air purifier.
Safety Features: Tata prioritizes occupant safety with six airbags, a 360-degree camera system, electronic stability control (ESC), and an electronic parking brake with an auto-hold function.
Price and Competition: The Tata Punch EV occupies a competitive price range, starting from Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and extending to Rs 15.49 lakh for the top-end variant. Its primary competitor is the recently launched Citroen eC3. Additionally, it can be considered a premium alternative to the Tata Tiago EV while offering a more affordable option compared to the larger Tata Nexon EV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What caused the window of the Tata Punch EV to shatter?
A: The window was shattered by a powerful six-hit by RCB batsman Ellyse Perry during a match at the Women’s Premier League 2024.
Q: What gift did Ellyse Perry receive from Tata following the incident?
A: Ellyse Perry received a framed piece of the broken glass from the Tata Punch EV as a memorable memento of the incident.
Q: What charitable contribution did Tata make in response to the incident?
A: Tata fulfilled its commitment to donate Rs 5 lakh to Tata Memorial Hospital in Kolkata, contributing towards the installation of solar panels, as announced before the incident.
Q: Did Tata Motors fulfill its charitable commitment due to the broken window?
A: Yes, Tata Motors confirmed their commitment to donate Rs 5 lakh to a charitable cause each time a player hits the display car. Since Ellyse Perry’s six was the only instance of this happening, they announced a contribution of Rs 5 lakh towards installing solar panels at Tata Memorial Hospital in Kolkata.
Q: Is the Tata Punch EV a good option for city driving?
A: Absolutely! The Punch EV’s compact size makes it ideal for navigating city traffic and finding parking spots. The claimed range of the LR variant (421 km) offers ample range for most daily commutes, potentially eliminating the need for frequent charging. Additionally, the peppy acceleration and electric motor’s quiet operation contribute to a comfortable city driving experience.
Q: How does the Tata Punch EV compare to other electric SUVs in the market?
A: The Punch EV positions itself as a more affordable option compared to larger electric SUVs like the Tata Nexon EV or MG ZS EV. While it might have a slightly lower range compared to these larger options, the Punch EV offers a good balance of performance, features, and affordability, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable electric city car.
