Tata to launch Tigor and Tiago EVs for mass market
14 Sep 2018
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Tata Motors is planning to launch fully electric versions of its Tigor and Tiago models aimed at the general public, in a move to establish itself in the zero-emission space. The company announced its plan to focus on expanding business in the electric and shared mobilities during the official launch of the Tiago NRG.
Tata Motors’ EV push comes at a time when prices of petrol and diesel are skyrocketing, which could mean an increasing demand for electric vehicles, especially in the short haul urban settings.
The Tiago EV concept was unveiled at the LCV (Low Carbon Vehicle) 2017 exhibition in Millbrook, United Kingdom in September 2017 and was developed by TMETC (Tata Motors European Technical Centre).
The concept utilises an electric motor with 85 kW (114 hp) capacity and 200 Nm of peak torque with a top speed of 100 kmph. The electric Tigor comes fitted with FATC (Fully Automatic AC), comprising a 216 Ah 16V battery and 3-phase AC induction motor.
Mated to a single-speed transmission sending power to the front wheels, the vehicle can accelerate to 100 kmph in around 11 seconds. Its regenerative braking system aids in munching extra miles.
It has driving range of 130 km on a single charge, and the charging time from empty to 80 per cent takes just 90 minutes using fast charger. The eco-friendly Tigor takes 3 hours to get fully charged up using normal charger.
Tata is positioning the Zest and Bolt to appeal for fleet operators or shared mobility segments while plans are in place to launch the EV version of Tiago and Tigor for private buyers – besides catering for bulk buyers under ‘One Tata’ umbrella.
The Tigor EV looks all similar in appearance as the regular model except for the absence of exhaust and added provision for charging.
Tata Motors had previously unveiled the Bolt EV concept in the UK and the technology used in the electric Bolt is likely to be used in the Tiago as well. The Tiago EV is expected to make it to India soon as the car is nearing its production stage.
Tata may also come out with an electric Nano, which has seen a drastic drop in sales. However, the electric Tiago and Nano may not be available in India initially, and could likely launch by next year.
Tata has already delivered the Tigor EV to state-run EESL in three different trims - Base, Premium and High.
Tata EVs, along with Mahindra's flagship electric car, the e20 Plus, the e-Verito and expected models from Maruti Suzuki and other car makers could give a big push to electric mobility in the country.
