Back in 2008, Tata Motors introduced what was then the cheapest car in the world – the Nano, which cost around U$S2,200 then. It was intended to enable more people in India, especially families, to travel in a safer 4-wheeler than a 2-wheeler. Unfortunately, despite being cheap, it did not catch on and sales were poor so it was discontinued after 10 years.
Nevertheless, the company’s founder has long wanted to help his countrymen and does so in various ways and Tata Motors has again come up with a low-priced electric car. Tata Motors, having been a pioneer in EVs in India, has used its expertise to produce an EV at a cost low enough to price it from 8.49 lakh (about RM48,000). However, this is an introductory price for the first 10,000 buyers from October 10 when the car – known as the Tiago.ev – goes on sale.
Following the presentation of the CURVV concept early in April, Tata Motors recently unveiled a second concept car which will be the basis of a new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that will enter the market in 2025. The new concept car is called the AVINYA, the name being derived from the Sanskrit language to stand for ‘Innovation’.
“While making the AVINYA Concept a reality, the central idea was to offer a mobility solution like no other – a state of the art software on wheels that is well designed, sustainable and reduces the planet’s carbon footprint,” said N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons and Tata Motors. “Green Mobility is at the nucleus of Tata Passenger Electric Mobility (TPEM), and the AVINYA Concept is the perfect reflection of what the company stands for – a creation that will not only accelerate the adoption of EVs but also lead this movement.”
Expanding on Mr. Chandrasekaran’s statement, Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said: “It is indeed a matter of pride for us at TPEM to present the AVINYA Concept to the world, a vision pivotal in signalling a ‘New Paradigm’. Holding on to its values of Simplicity, Timelessness, Effortlessness and Grace, the AVINYA is not only a concept but is our new identity, an identity which is here to challenge the status quo. It gives me an intense sense of optimism to present a new typology of vehicles that will introduce the automobile industry to options beyond mobility – a tranquil space which will offer you a complete sensory experience while on the move.”
The AVINYA Concept is the first model built on the GEN 3 architecture developed for BEVs. This global platform offers high structural safety and has the next level of waterproofing and dust protection which may be a necessity in India and some other markets.
This architecture is built with the use of next-gen lightweight materials, efficient electronic componentry and proprietary energy management strategies and algorithms for efficiency management.
With this architecture, Tata Motors plans to produce a range of globally competitive EVs. These will have new age technology, software and Artificial Intelligence working in the background. To help in widening adoption of BEVs, Tata Motors aims to make the model fairly accessible to a majority of customers of fast-growing, high-volume segments of today.
The catamaran design served as inspiration for the AVINYA Concept, conceived as a premium hatchback with the versatility of an SUV and the roominess and functionality of an MPV. A significant highlight on the front and the rear of the vehicle is the new identity. Each side has ‘Butterfly’ doors, hinged at the front and at the rear. When both are open, a wide opening is available for entry and exit.
Such a concept is usually shown in concept cars but does not always continue in the production models. There are some models that do have it, like those from Rolls-Royce and as we have seen recently, the new Mazda MX-30.
The AVINYA Concept also has a skydome to further enhance the overall sense of space by letting in natural light from above. Sustainable materials are used, communicating the ethos of the product and as a finishing touch, there is an aroma diffuser.
Tata Motors’ designers have made an interesting departure from the trend of having more display screens (and larger ones too) around the cabin. They believe that less screen time is the way to go, and have minimised this aspect. This will eliminate distractions inside the car and create a stress-free environment for the mind and soul, they feel.
Tata Motors does not say much about the powertrain but intends to provide a battery pack with ultra fast-charge capability that will give a 500-km range in under 30 minutes. Other subsidiaries in the Tata Group will develop the batteries and EV technologies, giving the company an advantage in what will become a competitive segment of the global auto market.
SUVs makes up the largest market segment today and this is the case in every market in the world, even in India where foreign brands have been introducing new SUV models in recent years. The Indian carmakers also have their own SUVs although most are still the more ‘traditional’ type designed more for ruggedness than style.
But that will soon change if a new SUV concept by Tata Motors is any indication. The concept, called CURVV, has a design more like the crossover SUVs of today. It’s an edgy sporty look with a coupe profile that is typical of modern SUV typology. Presumably, the design has been done in-house and is proposed with an electric powertrain as well as a combustion engine powertrain.
In keeping with its SUV image, there is extra ground clearance so it stands tall, with a large offset for the front and rear ends. Cladding with a grooved pattern below the sills give a a visual sense of ruggedness. At the lower front and rear, the protective panels also have a similar pattern.
The lighting concept at the front is unique and whether it will actually be in the production model remains to be seen. There is a thin line that runs across the edge of the bonnet and is illuminated with ultra slim LEDs. Together with triangular shaped headlamps, there is a visual signature for the model. The same full-width LED feature is used at the rear as well, with the LEDs illuminating in red.
Much thought has gone into aerodynamic efficiency and airflow around the pillars has been made as smooth as possible. The wheels also have ‘aeroblade’ inserts to close off the openings which can cause micro turbulence.
The interior has been kept simple with a clean dashboard although the production model might not be as clean when equipment like the audio system and air-conditioning is added. But what is important, according to Tata, has been the integration of new technologies and the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Apart from more efficient interior packaging, the designers have also aimed for a more premium feel through the use of high quality materials and finishes. To brighten up the interior, there’s a panoramic sunroof which covers much of the roof.
From statements by senior Tata executives, the concept model seems very much like a preview rather than just a showcar. In fact, it is expected to become a production model within the next two years.
“With this magnificent Electric SUV Concept – CURVV, our focus has been to enable customers with a product option that is the perfect amalgamation of modern functionality and design. With a robust SUV DNA at its core, and a plethora of new age materials, features and interfaces, we are confident that this concept will redefine mainstream SUV design,” said Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd.
“Furthermore, with the concept CURVV, we now enter the Generation 2 EV architecture which will further enhance the adoption of EVs in India by overcoming the current barriers. With this new architecture, we will strengthen the key pillars of range, performance and technology, while retaining safety and reliability,” he added.
Tata Motors has started taking bookings for its new Nexon EV, billed as ‘India’s Own Electric SUV’, which will be in showrooms in early 2020. It joins the growing EV market in India with offering such as the MG ZS, Hyundai Kona EV, and Mahindra e20.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD of Tata Motors said: “After introducing our cutting-edge EV technology, ZIPTRON, we are thrilled to unveil the first EV featuring this technology – the Nexon EV. This is a high-performance, connected vehicle that is uniquely suited to address the aspirations of Indian customers and break all barriers for EV adoption. We are confident that this development will mark an important milestone in India’s electrification journey, and further reinforce our commitment towards developing sustainable and responsible mobility solutions for India.”
Tata Motors’ ZIPTRON technology incorporates a powerful and high-efficiency 129-ps/245 Nm permanent-magnet AC motor powered by a high capacity 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It promises to give brisk performance with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h claimed to be 9.9 seconds and a range of over 300 kms on a full charge.
Besides constant recharging with Regenerative Braking that charges the battery pack while coasting through, when plugged into a Fast DC Charger, the Nexon EV can reach 80% battery capacity within 60 minutes. In addition, charging can be done from any 15-amp plug point.
The EV comes with a best-in-industry dust and waterproof battery pack which meets IP67 standards. This high-density battery pack is liquid-cooled to handle India’s high temperature conditions. The battery pack is placed underneath the vehicle body, giving the SUV a centre of gravity more akin to that of a sedan or a hatchback, ensuring maximum stability and excellent dynamic performance on winding roads.
The 3994 mm long Nexon EV retains all its learnings from the Nexon Global NCAP rating and comes with class-leading safety features. It has been rigorously tested for 1 million kms over the toughest terrain in India, covering high altitudes, unpaved roads, steep gradients and under extreme weather conditions. Tata Motors is confident of its durability that it offers a warranty of 8 years or maximum of 160,000 kms on the battery pack and electric motor.
Tata Motors will soon offer EVs (electric vehicles) with its own state-of-the-art technology which will be launched during 2020. Known as ‘ZIPTRON’, the EV powertrain technology is a building block towards the Indian carmaker’s strive for commonality so as to drive economies of scale. Pursuing this strategy will help to make new technologies affordable for Indian consumers.
While full details have not been released, the new technology embodies important characteristics such as an efficient high voltage system, zippy performance, long range, fast charging capability, a battery pack with warranty of 8 years, and adherence to IP67 standard which relates to protection from water.
In-house development
Speaking at the announcement recently, Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD of Tata Motors said: “We are proud to present this state-of-art technology brand – ZIPTRON – which has been designed in-house while utilizing our global engineering network. At the heart of our future EV line-up, this technology will deliver a thrilling driving experience to our customers aspiring to go-green. Rigorously tested across 1 million kms, ZIPTRON technology is well proven, advanced and reliable. With this technology, we hope to usher in a new wave of eMobility in India and accelerate faster adoption of EVs, supporting the government’s vision.”
ZIPTRON battery pack
The ZIPTRON powertrain has a highly efficient permanent magnet AC motor providing superior performance on demand. It is claimed to have best-in-industry protection against dust and water, an important requirement for Indian motoring conditions. Furthermore, ZIPTRON technology has smart regenerative braking to charge the battery while on the drive, enhancing the range.
The Tata Motors’ Electric Vehicle Business Unit has also been supporting the IIT Bombay Racing Team for the past 4 years as a key sponsor to help a team of 70 budding engineers fulfill their aspirations of developing an electrically-powered racing car.
In the coming months, Tata Motors will be starting a campaign to introduce ZIPTRON technology as well as educate consumers on EVs.
Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, along with its authorized distributor DRB-HICOM Commercial Vehicles Sdn. Bhd. (DHCV), recently launched the Tata Super Ace and the Ultra range of commercial vehicles in Malaysia. These vehicles have been designed for the modern commercial vehicle customer, with superior performance, world-class cabins, high load carrying capacity and flexible body-load configurations.
Tata Super Ace – The Tata Super Ace is a 1 ton mini-truck from Tata Motors, for inter-city and intra-city transportation solutions. Optimally powered by a 1405 cc diesel engine, combined with a new body design and cutting edge technology, the Tata Super Ace will offer customers with an opportunity to start their dream business with a very small investment. The Tata Super Ace is based on the popular Tata Ace mini-truck from Tata Motors. Having sold over a million units since it was first launched in 2005, the Tata Ace has been a revolutionary product and is a result of Tata Motors deep understanding of the market and consumer.
The Tata Ace has been a preferred choice for last-mile transportation with a footprint spanning 28 countries across South Asia, Africa and the ASEAN. The Tata Super Ace can be customized for various small scale business operations, for the transportation of construction items, food grains, fruits, FMCG and white goods or could be configured to be a food truck, an ice-cream truck or a mobile store on wheels.
Tata Ultra range of commercial vehicles – Based on a combination of world-class performance parameters, with enhanced levels of durability and reliability of the Ultra platform, this range will enable Tata Motors to set new benchmarks in the Intermediate commercial vehicles space in Malaysia. A combination of driver comfort, high load carrying-capacity and safety, along with best life-cycle cost, makes this new offering from Tata Motors, versatile for various applications.
The Ultra 814 offers enhanced levels of durability and reliability on the Ultra platform. It is powered by new generation NG 3.0 Lt CRDI engine coupled with next generation transmission. Available in 4.5T Payload with highest body option of 5.5M, Tata Ultra provides customers complete flexibility, for varying business requirements. All these together make the Ultra 814 a reliable asset and the most efficient solution for optimum business profitability. The Ultra 1014 offers faster turnaround time and enhanced profitability for any goods carrying business, making it an ideal work-horse for movement of materials across distances.
The driveline of the Ultra 1014, has the latest NG 3.0Lt engine with an output of 140 HP, a new-generation transmission with aluminum casing – the 6 Speed – G-550 overdrive gear box, with cable-shift mechanism and axle technology, with reduced weight, ensures superior performance and greater fuel efficiency for varied payloads. The longer wheelbase of 4530 mm makes Tata Ultra the perfect Business Utility Vehicle, suitable for varying business applications such as FMCG, white goods etc.
Speaking at the event, DRB-HICOM’s Dato’ Abdul Harith Abdullah, Chief Operating Officer, Automotive Distribution, Defence and Manufacturing & Engineering said, the launch was a key milestone for the Group in getting a foothold of the growing CV market in Malaysia.
“With these new products unveiled today, which are competitively priced with superior features, we are confident it will gain traction amongst our target users in the near term. DHCV’s deep expertise in the area of importing, assembling and distributing foreign marques in Malaysia is well established since 1979.
Our local knowledge coupled with a robust dealer network across the country has been crucial to our success thus far. With our partner Tata Motors, we are confident about making a significant impact in the selected commercial vehicle categories and thus grabbing market share incrementally in what is a very competitive niche market. The economy is poised to grow this year which bodes well for our joint venture with Tata Motors.”
Harith added that they are very confident about the market acceptance of the new Ultra variants and specifically, Tata Super Ace which is expected to be popular with small business owners across Malaysia.
Commenting on the launch of the three new commercial vehicles, Mr. Rudrarup Maitra, Head – Commercial Vehicles, International Business, Tata Motors, said,“Malaysia is one of our key markets in South-East Asia and we are delighted to be a part of one of the fastest growing ASEAN nations. An integral part of our presence here is DRB-HICOM, a partner that has showcased tremendous enthusiasm and passion over the years. With this partnership we can truly establish a long-term relationship with our customers in Malaysia. It gives us immense pleasure to chart out our growth story and expand our portfolio in this market. We are delighted to bring the three new commercial vehicles to Malaysia today.”
DHCV and Tata Motors say they will continue to explore new potentials, customer’s preference and conduct researches for new product variants to sustain their growth and expansion for the medium to long term.
Customers in Malaysia are currently served by a network of 24 outlets located at strategic locations and in major townships, nationwide. DHCV aims to expand this reach in tandem with sales growth and market.
For the full price list of the new Tata commercial vehicles, click here: Price List – New Models
