Hyundai’s upcoming HE1i compact EV SUV has been spied yet again as it undergoes testing in Chennai wearing unique text camouflage for its affordable EV segment and January 2027 launch. The HE1i, officially named by Hyundai, has been spotted undergoing testing in Chennai wearing a unique new camouflage scheme that takes cues from the text camouflage used on the Bayon.
The heavily camouflaged prototype can be seen with sections of the white base showing through. Black and red text has been applied to the roof rails and rear window pillars in large fonts. Smaller text can also be seen in different orientations. Although we can only see snippets of text, it does appear that Hyundai will be starting its tease campaign ahead of the launch as the camouflage looks similar to what was used on the Bayon.
Words such as Innovation, Transformation and Bring It On were used on the Bayon. The HE1i is Hyundai’s first India-specific EV SUV under four metres long. The vehicle was designed for the Indian market utilising the cost-efficient E-GMP (K). The boxy shape of the vehicle can still be seen with its high ride height and flat roofline. However, the vehicle will have a high amount of interior space due to it being under four metres long which helps with taxation. It will be built at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur plant in Tamil Nadu meaning it will have a high level of localisation to help keep it affordable.
Hyundai has already confirmed it will have Level 2 driver assistance tech and a new generation infotainment system. This will likely include the Pleos Connect system. The vehicle will also offer two battery options in the 42 and 49 kWh range providing an expected range of 300-400km. This means it will fall into the affordable EV category. It will compete against well-known EVs such as the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Punch EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. However, it will offer buyers an option from a premium brand with modern safety and infotainment features.
The HE1i will debut in January 2027 meaning there is still a few more months of intense testing on Indian roads and in different conditions. As the vehicle has been spotted numerous times with different camouflage schemes, Hyundai are likely still improving the vehicle and branding. Some reports suggest the vehicle will be unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Auto Expo. As testing continues, more details about the powertrain, pricing and final name will be revealed. This is an important step for Hyundai as they expand their EV line-up below the Creta Electric.