Tata Nano
Concept or production: Production
What is it: The five-grand mini car for the masses.
Highlights: The Nano is steadily gaining in its guestimated RRP, with this Europa model expected to creep over the 5000 euro mark (AU$9770). But it will still be the cheapest thing out there, and better specced than some more expensive cars...
The four-door, four-seat Europa is driven by a three-cylinder all-aluminium fuel-injected engine (the Indian model is a two-cylinder), with a standard five-speed auto and sub-100g/km CO2, which should have it in the four-litre per hundred slot.
It also gets Pirelli rubber, ABS, ESP and at least dual airbags, but no word yet on what is standard or optional. Or whether Lotus will let Tata keep the name. We think not.
Australia-bound: Possible. Tata says the Europa is scheduled for 'future launch in international markets.'
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Tata Nano Europa, for future launch in international markets, displayed at 79th Geneva Motor Show.
Geneva, March 3, 2009: Tata Motors today presented at the 79th Geneva Motor Show the Tata Nano Europa, intended for a future launch in select international markets. The company has also displayed the Tata Prima, a concept luxury sedan, and the Tata Indica Vista EV, an electric vehicle based on the award-winning new generation Tata Indica Vista.
Speaking on the occasion at the Geneva Motor Show, Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors, said, "In India, the Nano will be launched on March 23, and the cars will be on display at company dealerships from the first week of April. The Nano has also generated wide interest in developed countries, since it's unveiling in Delhi and its presentation here last year. We are delighted to present the Nano Europa for future launch in such markets. The Indica Vista EV represents the work of Tata Motors on alternate technologies, while the Prima is an iteration of a luxury sedan we will introduce. They together signify the ongoing evolution in our cars."
Tata Nano Europa
With a length of 3.29 metres and width of 1.58 metres, the Tata Nano Europa continues to be stylishly petite but surprises with its spacious interior and generous leg space. The slightly longer wheelbase of 2.28 metres combines excellent space and manoeuvrability, further improving on the benchmark standard set by the Tata Nano. The enhanced spaciousness is complemented by redesigned interiors, marked by smooth curves and a high tech yet gentle feel.
To meet the driving needs of its target customers, the Tata Nano Europa will be powered by a 3-cylinder sporty all-aluminium MPFI engine matched with a 5-speed automatic transmission, and electric power steering. The gasoline engine will be class-leading, providing high fuel efficiency and low CO2 emission of less than 100 gm / km meeting the twin goals of being environmentally friendly and stylish - just like the Tata Nano.
The Tata Nano Europa meets all safety regulations. In addition to the all sheet-metal body, its energy absorbing design, use of advanced restraint systems, ABS, ESP and Air Bags will enhance passenger safety.
Just like the Tata Nano, the Tata Nano Europa incorporates exterior compactness with interior comfort and seeks to provide motorists the pleasure and utility of personal mobility combined with affordability and environment-friendliness, in a world where smaller, fuel-efficient cars are emerging as a preferred choice.
About Tata Motors
Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company, with revenues of US$ 8.8 billion in 2007-08. Through subsidiaries and associate companies, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand and Spain. Among them is Jaguar Land Rover, a business comprising the two iconic British brands. It also has a strategic alliance with Fiat. With over 4 million Tata vehicles plying in India, Tata Motors is the country's market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top three in passenger vehicles. It is also the world's fourth largest truck manufacturer and the second largest bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia and South America
COMMENTS