More stories

  • in

    Ratan Tata Takes Delivery Of Nano Electric – Modified By ElectraEV

    Ratan Tata with his Nano ElectricElectraEV has been developing various innovative offerings for the evolving electric mobility ecosystemRatan Tata is one of the most admired industrialists in the country, thanks to his rich history of philanthropy and visionary approach. Tata Group is one of the leading conglomerates to invest in various startups in India. Not just the company but Ratan Tata himself has invested in a few promising startups in his personal capacity as well.One of the most prominent ones is ElectraEV which was founded by Ratan Tata himself. The Pune-based EV startup is responsible for developing powertrains, battery management systems and other EV-related technologies for Tata Motors as well as other OEMs.While massive push has been given to development and manufacture of new electric vehicles, retrofitting of old IC engine-powered models is also gaining momentum in recent times. ElectraEV is also working on the latter in order to expand its reach wider. Recently, the firm took to social media to declare a retrofitting of an EV powertrain into an IC engine car.Tata Nano Electric – Retrofitted PowertrainThe retrofitting was performed on a Nano which belongs to none other than Ratan Tata himself. The EV startup also posted a picture of the business tycoon standing alongside his custom-built Nano Electric which wore a green license plate.Ratan Tata with his Nano ElectricNo cosmetic updates have been carried out in the stock Nano. The post also mentions that the electric Nano has been retrofitted with a powertrain featuring a 72V battery pack. No other details regarding specs of the electric motor and performance figures have been shared by ElectraEV.ElectraEV offers a wide range of battery options ranging from 48V to 750V. All these Lithium-Ion Battery (LIB) packs from the firm have been tested as per AIS 048 and certified by ARAI. The LIB packs can operate at a wide range of temperatures ranging from sub-zero to 55-degree celsius (drive).Other detailsBattery packs from EV use force chill air-cooled technology and integrate through an intelligent programmable BMS utilizing CAN communication network. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery packs from ElectraEV currently in use in India extend from 16.6 kWh to 21.6 kWh, thus enabling 200 to 213 KM driving range on a full charge. The electrified Nano should also offer a range of around 200km on a single charge.These battery packs are currently used in Neo and Xpres-T EV, the latter is essentially a Tigor EV specifically designed for fleet consumers. The facelifted Tigor EV now utilises a more premium and more powerful Ziptron technology which is also used in Tata Nexon EV. Hopefully, this will set the right precedent for people to retrofit their old IC engine-powered vehicles with new electric powertrains. More

  • in

    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied With Rear Disc Brakes – More Power?

    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric will have better competencies against the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona ElectricWhile Tata Nexon EV is the top selling electric car in the country, its range is relatively less in comparison to other EVs. It’s true that Nexon EV makes up for the lower range with its affordable pricing. However, it’s quite possible that some people may be willing to pay extra to get more miles on a full charge.To cater to this segment, Tata Motors will launch a long-range version of Nexon EV later this year. Although priced higher than the current model, long-range Nexon EV will still be cheaper than its closest competitors.2022 Tata Nexon Electric long-range spiedUpcoming Nexon EV has been frequently spotted on road tests in recent months. Latest sightings reveal that the car has disc brakes on all four wheels. In its current form, Nexon EV has front disc and rear drum brakes. It is possible that a long-range Nexon EV can have a higher top speed than the current model. That’s where an all-disc brake variant can ensure efficient braking and adequate safety.In terms of styling, 2022 Nexon EV does not appear to have any major changes. It continues with Tata’s Humanity line faux grille, sporty dual-beam LED headlamps and DRLs, trapezoidal fog lamps and tri-arrow motif on the bumper. Side profile is largely the same with sculpted panels, thick body cladding and tapering roofline. Rear section is also the same as the current model.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric – batteryPrimary update for long-range Nexon EV will be a larger 40 kWh battery pack. In its current form, the car utilizes a 30.2 kWh li-ion battery. It is an IP67 certified battery and has been rigorously tested for more than 1 million kilometres across varied environments.The battery supplies power to a 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates 129 PS of max power and 245 Nm of peak torque. Nexon EV can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 9.9 seconds. 0 to 60 kmph is achieved in 4.6 seconds.Based on user reviews, range of current Nexon EV can vary depending on various variables such as driver skills, ambient temperature, use of AC, etc. While the certified range is 312 km, real-world range is around 180-200 km. This may not be enough for folks who commute long distances every day or regularly travel inter-city.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc SpiedAlthough Tata Motors is currently building a wide network of charging stations, waiting for the car to charge can still be a hassle. With a fast charger, Nexon EV can be charged 0-80% in around 60 minutes. Charging time runs into several hours when using a standard 15 Amp plug point.2022 Tata Nexon Electric will be better, as it is expected to have a range of around 400 kms. True range could be around 300 km. This will be adequate for city commutes as well as long-distance journeys. Nexon EV long-range variant could be launched by mid-2022.Source More

  • in

    Tata Nexon Electric Coupe SUV Render – Larger Battery, 400 Kms Range

    Tata Nexon Electric SUV Coupe – Render by SRK DesignsThe extended Coupe version of Tata Nexon is expected to be launched in both IC engine and fully electric derivativesTata Motors has been planning to launch a new mid-size SUV in order to fill the wide gap between Nexon and Harrier. This upcoming mid-size SUV could be based on the subcompact SUV- Nexon and will flaunt a coupe-like design.The homegrown carmaker is also looking to solidify its position in the electric mobility space in the country. The company recently established a new subsidiary called TPEML dedicated to development of electric vehicles and their related technologies. The subsidiary firm has been infused with a funding of Rs 700 croresLike Nexon, Tata Motors might also bring out a fully electric derivative of its Coupe SUV sibling. Originally conceptualised as a mid-size SUV back in 2018 to rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Nexon Coupe will essentially be a stretched version of the current Nexon with a new coupe body style. A digital rendering of the upcoming electric SUV has been created by SRK Designs.Tata Nexon Electric Coupe SUV – Exterior DesignThe digital illustration gives a sneak peek as to what the model could look like in its production avatar. The battery-powered Coupe SUV shows significant styling upgrades over the current Nexon EV. For starters, it receives a new front fascia with a closed-off nose dominated by Tata’s signature Humanity Line faux grille. Unlike Nexon EV, this rendering shows a split lighting setup on the Coupe SUV.Tata Nexon Electric SUV Coupe – Render by SRK DesignsThe upper section features a pair of sleek LED DRLs while the lower section gets new LED headlamps mounted on the bumper. Due to this revised setup, the front bumper has also been reprofiled heavily and looks more butch and aggressive. The bumper also features a larger and more prominent bash plate which adds to the car’s muscular appeal.The major changes occur after the B-pillars where the roofline slopes down aggressively. The roofline meets the rear end of the SUV which gets an extended overhang giving it the look of a pseudo sedan. Like Nexon EV, the Coupe SUV also gets blacked-out pillars to complement a black roof thus providing a dual-tone look to the vehicle.Other prominent highlights along the side profile include black claddings on wheel arches and door sills, a prominent character line running till the rear and a new set of alloy wheels. Another tasteful addition is the flush door handles which accentuate its premium appeal.Expected SpecsComing to specifications, Nexon Coupe EV is expected to be powered by the same Zipron powertrain but could feature a larger 40 kWh battery pack. It is expected to deliver a claimed range of over 400 kms. This battery pack will also make its debut in the upgraded version of Nexon EV, most probably later this year. The carmaker could also tweak the electric motor slightly to produce a higher output for the Coupe electric SUV.Source More

  • in

    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied – Gets Larger Battery, Longer Range

    2022 Tata Nexon ElectricTata Motors will launch updated Nexon Electric with a larger battery pack this year – It would offer a higher range of around 400km on a single charge
    Range anxiety in electric vehicles (EVs) is a major concern among automobile buyers, especially in India where charging infrastructure is yet to gain widespread prominence. In addition, initial cost of an EV is a lot higher than conventional IC engine-powered vehicles which makes them unfavourable by most buyers in major parts of the country.
    However, EVs do have the benefit of low running costs in comparison to their petrol and diesel counterparts. For this, EVs have to provide a certain range in order to make it a profitable proposition for buyers. Nexon EV is one of the most sought-after EVs in the passenger car segment in India.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied
    Despite so many positives, the electric SUV has one major drawback in the form of its range. Nexon EV offers a range of 312km on a single charge which may seem decent on paper but its real-world range stands at around 180-200 kms. This might be very less for consumers who often cover long-distance journeys in a car or for those who commute long distances on a daily basis.
    To address this issue, Tata Motors will be updating Nexon Electric with a larger battery pack that will offer a greater range on a full charge. A test mule of the same has now been spotted somewhere in Pune. Images are credit to TechTalk Teardown. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Snehal Praveen for sharing the update.
    [embedded content]
    2022 Tata Nexon EV- Exterior Details
    Prototype caught in the camera was seen wearing a full-body camouflage although there wasn’t any noticeable clue of any change from images. It gets the same front fascia with a sealed Tata’s Humanity line faux grille which are flanked by dual-beam LED headlamps on each side with integrated LED DRLs.
    It also rolls on new 16 inch dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels. Side profile also remains intact will sloping Coupe-like roofline and roof rails. Rear end of the electric SUV has not been shown in the latest spy shots but it is unlikely the company will provide any noticeable change on this side.
    Features & Specs on offer
    In terms of features, it will be offered with gizmos such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system enabled with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a semi-digital instrument cluster with a 7-inch TFT display, auto LED headlights, auto climate control and connected car technology.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied In Pune
    Interiors are also expected to remain identical. Tata will, however, make some calibration changes to the powertrain and software with the addition of a new battery pack. Safety kit will include standard features such as dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors and cornering stability control.
    Currently, Nexon Electric is powered by the brand’s Ziptron EV powertrain technology which draws energy from a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery. This powertrain returns an output of 127 bhp and 245 Nm of torque. The battery gets an 8-year standard warranty. In its current avatar, Nexon EV is priced between Rs 14.24 lakh and Rs 16.85 lakh (ex-showroom). More

  • in

    2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Drive Range – Larger Battery

    Image – HemankIt’s imperative for Tata Motors to upgrade its EVs, as several new and possibly better-equipped products are expected in 2022-23 and beyond
    Tata Motors EV portfolio currently has Nexon EV and Tigor EV. Early adopters have significant preference for Nexon EV, as it offers a desirable balance between pricing and range. It explains why Nexon EV is currently the top selling electric car in the country.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Range
    In its current form, Nexon EV is powered by a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Certified range is 312 km on a full charge. However, in real world conditions, users have reported getting around 180-200 km. While this may be sufficient for everyday city commutes, it does not suffice for longer journeys.
    For inter-city and inter-state travel, Nexon EV has to be upgraded with longer range. In its current form, Nexon EV will have to make frequent stops at charging stations. As a solution to such issues and to make Nexon EV comparable to standard fossil-fuel based cars, Tata Motors is working on a longer-range version of Nexon EV. This is expected to be launched around mid 2022.
    Long range edition of Nexon EV will be equipped with a larger 40kWh capacity battery pack. With the new battery pack, weight of the car is expected to increase by around 100 kg. Range will increase to more than 400 kms on full charge. True range is expected to be around 300-320 kms. This is close to range available with premium electric cars such as MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV.
    Tata Nexon EV
    Other updates like selectable regenerative braking and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are also on the cards for Nexon EV. As of now, the regenerative braking system on Nexon EV is a mild version. It does not allow users to make adjustments. The new regen system will have selectable options that will allow users to control the intensity of regenerative braking. When the max possible regen setting is selected, it will help boost range in a significant manner.
    Nexon long range EV could get some visual updates such as new colour options and a new set of alloy wheels. There can be some changes on the inside as well. It is to note that current Nexon EV model will continue to be sold alongside the long-range variant.
    Tata Nexon EV Long Range price
    With the larger battery pack and other updates, long-range Nexon EV is expected to cost Rs 3-4 lakh more than the current model. Even with increased pricing, Nexon EV will still be cheaper than other electric cars in its class. The current model is available at a starting price of Rs 14.24 lakh (ex-sh). Top-spec Nexon EV Dark XZ+ LUX variant is priced at Rs 16.85 lakh.
    Tata Motors has chalked out aggressive plans for EV segment. Its EV portfolio is expected to grow to 10 EVs by 2026. To make it possible, the company recently launched a new EV arm called Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). This new entity will cater to all aspects of EVs including their design, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing and after sales services.
    Source More

  • in

    Tata Motors Launches EV Subsidiary – Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEML)

    Tata Tigor Electric SedanWith the new EV subsidiary, Tata Motors will be looking to bolster its presence in EV space
    One of the early entrants in EV space, Tata Motors currently leads with market share of around 70%. A significant percentage of the company’s EV sales comprise Tata Nexon EV. Tata Motors also has Tigor EV, which was recently updated with visual enhancements and more capable powertrain. The company’s cumulative EV sales had crossed the 10k milestone earlier this year in September.
    As competitive in EV space is expected to increase significantly in coming years, Tata Motors feels it will be better to step-up focus in this segment. Towards that end, Tata Motors has formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary named Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). The new entity will commence operations with initial capital of Rs 700 crore. Necessary approval for the new arm has been received from Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
    TPEML focus areas
    TPEML will cater to all aspects of R&D, design, development, manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, sales, marketing, after sales services and servicing of electric vehicles. This will be applicable for hybrid electric vehicles as well. The company will look into design and development of motors, parts, components, accessories and other related equipment.
    It can also consider development of other types of vehicles that are powered by electricity or solar energy. This indicates that TPEML has a much larger agenda in mind and is not limited to manufacturing of passenger EVs.
    Tata Nexon Electric
    Threat from rivals
    EV ecosystem in the country is developing at a fast pace. Quite a few electric cars are now available here such as Jaguar I-Pace, Porsche Taycan, Audi e-Tron GT and Mercedes-Benz EQC electric SUV. These are not a threat to Tata Motors current EV portfolio, but things can change if and when the company decides to target the premium EV space.
    Talking about Tata’s bestselling Nexon EV, it is expected to face some stiff competition soon. Carmakers like MG Motor, Kia, Hyundai and Mahindra are working on their respective entry-level electric cars. For example, Hyundai has plans to introduce six new EVs in India. At least one of these will rival Tata Nexon EV.
    MG Motor is also said to be working on a mass-market EV that will rival Nexon EV. MG’s second EV for India is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 10-15 lakh. MG currently has the ZS EV in India, which is the second bestselling EV in the country.
    TPEML will be actively evaluating all these emerging threats. It will collaborate with its parent company to add more EVs to the existing portfolio. A lot of work also needs to be done in terms of upgrading existing powertrain and boosting range. Other things such as compliance with new safety rules and development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving tech could also be on the agenda. More

  • in

    New Tata Altroz Test Mules Spied Near Pune – Electric Or CNG?

    Tata Altroz New Test Mules SpiedBesides Altroz CNG, Tata Motors will also launch a fully battery-powered Altroz EV in future
    Mass-market carmakers are toying with several ideas for alternate fuels and hence companies will be introducing CNG-powered variants of many models in near future. Tata Motors is one brand that will expand its CNG lineup very soon with the launch of multiple CNG cars.
    The stepping stone is most probably going to be laid by Altroz CNG which has been spotted testing on numerous occasions in recent months. Test mules of the premium hatchback have been spotted yet again in a fully disguised avatar. It could be either the Altroz CNG or the Altroz Electric.
    New Tata Altroz Test Mules
    The latest spy shots are credit to automotive enthusiast Susheel Arde and have been clicked somewhere near Pune. Since the test prototype is fully covered under camouflage there is no evidence of any styling update. Spy shots also reveal interiors of the cabin.
    The interiors look fairly similar to the regular petrol and diesel variants of Altroz with the same dashboard layout and seat upholstery. It gets the same 7.0-inch free-standing touchscreen infotainment display and air-con vents below it. The centre panel gets ‘Altroz’ lettering in bold. It also features the same centre console tunnel comprising auto climate control, cubby hole, gear selector and driver’s armrest.
    [embedded content]
    Altroz Electric or Altroz CNG – Features on offer
    Other features present in Altroz’s equipment include a semi-digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, cruise control, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and iRA connected car tech. Standard safety features include dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors.
    The test mule seen in the latest spy pics appears to be the top-spec XZ+ trim since it features the same alloy wheel design and features. In all likelihood, CNG variants on Altroz are likely to be introduced on mid-spec XT trim onwards. It is likely to be priced at a premium of Rs 30,000 over its corresponding petrol-powered variant.
    Altroz Electric premium hatchback will be based on the brand’s Ziptron powertrain that features a larger battery unit. The Altroz EV is still in its early stages of production and could get a claimed range of over 300 kms on a full charge.
    2022 Tata Altroz Electric or CNG?
    Altroz Powertrain Options
    Currently, Altroz is offered three engine options. A 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine kicks out 85 bhp and 113 Nm of peak torque. A 1.5-litre diesel unit churns out 89 bhp and 200 Nm of torque. The third option is a 1.2-litre turbo petrol mill which dishes out 109 bhp and 140 Nm of peak torque. All three motors come mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard. There are also plans to launch an automatic gearbox with Altroz.
    Altroz CNG is expected to be launched sometime next year although its exact launch timeline is not yet known. Upon its launch, it will directly compete against the upcoming Maruti Baleno CNG and maybe Hyundai i20 CNG. Tata Motors will also launch CNG variants of Tiago, Tigor and Nexon in the coming future. More

  • in

    New Tata Electric SUVs, Cars In the Making – Rs 15,000 Cr Investment

    New Tata Sedan Render For ReferenceUnder the new EV subsidiary, Tata Motors will launch new electric cars with larger batteries which will be rolled out from the company’s existing facilities
    Tata Motors recently made a big move towards cleaner mobility solutions as it announced the creation of a new EV subsidiary. The carmaker has entered into a partnership with investment firm TPG Rise Climate which will invest around Rs 7,500 crore for about 11 percent to 15 percent stake in the new company.
    This translates to an equity valuation of USD 9.1 billion. The new EV vertical from Tata will create future intellectual property rights for zero-emission vehicles. This means the company will design and own future electric vehicle IPs while manufacturing operations will be taken care of by Tata Motors.
    In addition to the above, Tata Motors will be investing another Rs 15,000 crores to launch new electric vehicles. Tata Motors is expecting green vehicles to generate 20% of their total sales in the next 4-5 years.
    Tata Motors currently has only two electric cars on offer, Nexon EV and Tigor EV. These have monthly demand of about 3,000 units per month. But Tata is only able to manufacture 1,000 units per month. The new investments will not only help to boost production of existing EVs, but will also help launch new EVs.
    Tata Nexon EV Dark Edition. Image – Car Duniya
    New EV Subsidiary
    Temporarily titled EVCo, the new firm won’t have any manufacturing facilities of its own and instead will depend on its parent company to roll out new electric vehicles. Manufacturing capacities of Tata Motors will be available “on a “tolling basis” to the EV firm. Further, it has been revealed that the new EV brand will have access to the passenger vehicle capacities of Tata Motors which already exists.
    For utilising the PV facility of Tata, the new EV company will pay a fee to its parent company’s PV division. Tata Motors is currently the highest-selling EV manufacturer in the passenger vehicle segment in the country. It currently offers two electric cars- Nexon EV and Tigor EV. Both models will continue to be produced from their existing locations. The final brand name for EVCo will be finalised in the coming months.
    New Tata Electric SUVs to be based on existing platforms
    The homegrown manufacturer is not looking to develop EVs based on new born-electric platforms and instead is focusing on developing new EVs on existing platforms like ALFA (Altroz, Punch) and OMEGA (Harrier, Safari). The current EV lineup of Tata- Nexon EV and Tigor EV is underpinned by the Ziptron powertrain technology which is likely to feature in the upcoming EVs as well.
    No Hybrids, Only Pure EVs
    Tata Motors has also revealed that it plans to have ten electric vehicles in the next five years and all of them will be pure electric. The company has also ruled out hybrids as they do not help manufacturers meet CAFE norms. Moreover, the Government of India doesn’t consider hybrids as EVs and hence they are not liable to any tax benefits introduced as per FAME II regulations.
    Therefore, it is clear that future PV lineup for Tata Motors will comprise petrol, diesel, electric and CNG models. The upcoming range of EVs is expected to offer multiple body styles, motor specifications and range capacities catering to different segments. The carmaker will also be developing a widespread charging network across the country in partnership with sister company Tata Power.
    Source More