Tata Prepares For European Comeback In 2010
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The Tata Nano Europa at the
2009 Geneva Motor Show |
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Tata
6th March, 2009
Tata is preparing for a full-scale European launch in 2010,
with both the tiny Nano city car and a fully-revised Indica B-segment hatchback – including an electric
version.
But the launch will not use the Rover brand – which Tata acquired through its purchase of Jaguar and
Land Rover. Instead, the Tata brand will be used worldwide for small cars.
Tata chairman Ratan Tata was at the Geneva Motor Show to unveil a revised ‘Europa’ version of the tiny
Nano, which will go on sale in India, priced around $2,000 (USD), next month. It’s just 3.29 metres long
and 1.58 metres wide, but the Tata Nano Europa has a slightly longer wheelbase of 2.28 metres.
The biggest changes are under the 'skin'. Nano Europa will be powered by a 3 cylinder all aluminium
MPFI engine with a 5 speed automatic transmission and electric power steering. This will address one of
the complaints about Nano – that it’s not as eco-friendly as it could be. Ratan Tata said the petrol
engine will provide CO2 emissions of less than 100 g/km. Inside the car, fit and finish has been enhanced
over the India-market Nano, and the Nano Europa has ABS, ESP and air bags.
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The Tata Prima Concept Car
will be the basis of a 2012 production model. |
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Also on show, in Geneva, was a concept C-segment saloon, the Tata Prima. Styled by Pininfarina, it is
expected to go into production around 2012, and will form part of the Tata range alongside Nano and Indica.
The battery-electric Indica Vista EV is a true four-seater, with a predicted range of up to 200 kms and
acceleration of 0-60 km/h in under 10 seconds. It is currently undergoing extensive tests in Europe. The EV
uses super polymer lithium ion batteries which have superior energy density to conventional batteries. Tata
electric vehicles will be produced in association with Miljo Grenland/Innovasjon of Norway. Tata Motors’ UK
subsidiary, Tata Motors European Technical Centre plc, has a 70 per cent stake in Miljo.
There is no confirmation when and if Tata will return to Australia in a tangible manner.
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