Indian clock maker to challenge Tata Nano with electric car
The Tata Nano made headlines as the world's least expensive new car and it's now facing a new challenger that's battery powered. The Ajanta Group is better known for making clocks but they also build electric scooters and bikes. The Gujarat-based Ajanta wants to get into the car business with an electric vehicle that's cheaper than the Nano. Ajanta group director Jaysukh Patel seems to think they can just transfer their electric bike technology to a car and produce 70 percent of the parts in-house, saving money. That seems a little unrealistic - even in India - unless what they are planning is closer to a neighborhood electric vehicle than a real car. For a price under $2,500 the car will almost certainly be relegated to lead acid batteries and very short range. It will be interesting to see how Ajanta's new EV compares to the Reva G-Wiz which is also built in India.
Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car
[Source: Times of India]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Kevin Nugent 10:38PM (4/15/2008)
I think if they are coming out with the ev version do it right and don't go for the crappy old generation technology
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raju 8:21AM (4/16/2008)
Ajanta – well known clock makers are getting into car segment? It is definitely gonnna be a tough hit for Nano(http://www.carazoo.com/autonews/archives/FEB2008/1/0502200802) as the company is not only making an ultra cheap car but an ultra cheap, electric car. So chances are that people will prefer to go for green cars for lesser cost.
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