Dubbed the world’s cheapest car, the Tata Nano has suffered many setbacks since it was unveiled more than a year ago, but the Indian manufacturer proudly announced yesterday that Nano will officially go on sale in India next month for the promised amount of 1 Lakh, or 100 000 rupees.
by Kyle Kock
Protests at the West Bengal production site ceased construction of the Nano’s main production plant, and though the company’s Pantnagar plant in Uttarakhand is able to produce limited numbers, only when the replacement plant in Gujarat, West India, is completed in 2010, will annual capacity reach 350 000 units.
As the Nano made waves when its 1 Lakh price (roughly R19 000) was projected, so its not surprise that demand has easily outstripped supply. Tata has had to draft a lottery system with the State Bank of India of who receives the first 100 000 cars produced.
The booking process requires applicants to purchase a form (Rs.300 or R60) and put down a deposit of just under R600. Those unable to secure allotment in the first phase will be eligible for interest on their deposit.
At just 3 100 mm long, 1 500 mm wide, and 1 600 mm high, the Nano should be able to squeeze in four average-sized adults, through optimal use of interior space. Three trim levels will be made available. Standard, with three colour options, single-tone seats, and fold-down rear seats; CX, with two extra colour options, with heating and air-conditioning, two-tone seat seats, parcel shelf and booster assisted brakes; and LX, which offers CX features with the addition of fabric seats upholstery, cetral locking, front power windows, fog lamps and electronic trip meter amongst others.
The rear-mounted 600 cc all-aluminium two-cylinder engine develops 26 kW at 5 250 r/min and 48 N.m of torque at 3 000 r/min. A four-speed transmission enables the Nano to reach a 105 km/h top speed and negotiate a 16,7 degree incline. As it weighs just 600 kg, the Nano emits only 101 gm/km of CO2 and achieves just over 4,2 litres per 100 km.
According to Tata, the Nano has passed a roll-over test and offset impact, both of which are not regulated in India. The Nano will also feature a standard 18 months/24 000 km warranty.
Plans are underway to produce a Nano for Western markets as well. The Nano
Europa will bump up the specification level to include a slightly-longer wheelbase, five-speed automatic transmission, new three-cylinder powerplant with fuel injection and safety features such as ABS, ESP and airbags.
“The Nano represents the spirit of breaking conventional barriers. From the drawing board to its commercial launch, the concept, development and productionisation of the car has overcome several challenges. I hope it will provide safe, affordable, four-wheel transportation to families who till now have not been able to own a car,” said Ratan Tata, Chairman of Tata Motors.
