Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Renault-Nissan-Bajaj's Ultra-Low-Cost car project still alive]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/renault-nissan-bajajs-ultra-low-cost-car-project-still-alive/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/renault-nissan-bajajs-ultra-low-cost-car-project-still-alive/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/renault-nissan-bajajs-ultra-low-cost-car-project-still-alive/#commentsFiled under: ,



It's been a while since we've heard an update on the car coming from the joint venture of Renault-Nissan and Indian manufacturer Bajaj, a competitor to the Tata Nano. Carlos Ghosn, Renault-Nissan's CEO, fills us in with a statement that the ULC (Ultra Low Car) project is alive and well. What news do we learn? First, the 2011 release date has been pushed back to 2012. Second, the car is going to cost $3,000 (compared to the Nano's base price of around $2,000) and will still be available in a version that gets 70 mpg. According to Ghosn, the car will be designed, developed and produced by Bajaj, while Renault-Nissan will provide sales and marketing. We surmise that an export model, with either Nissan or Renault (or maybe Dacia) badges, is more than a possibility.

[Source: AFP via Le Blog Auto]

Renault-Nissan-Bajaj's Ultra-Low-Cost car project still alive originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bajajlow costlow cost carLowCostLowCostCarulcultra low costultra lowcost carUltraLowCostUltraLowcostCarWed, 11 Nov 2009 08:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata envisioning big sales of Indica Vista EV?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/tata-envisioning-big-sales-of-indica-vista-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/tata-envisioning-big-sales-of-indica-vista-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/tata-envisioning-big-sales-of-indica-vista-ev/#commentsFiled under: ,



Could it be that Tata is expecting to move lots of Indica Vista EVs when they bring them to the market, beginning with Norway later this year? If the tea leaves are being read properly, then yes. A short press release from the American offices of the South Korean battery maker Energy Innovation Group Ltd. (EIG) announces that they will supply their lithium polymer cells to Miljøbil Grenland AS, the Indian giant's Norwegian subsidiary until 2012. The agreement anticipates as many as two million of the large formats cells being shipped in that time frame which, we think, translates to thousands of cars.

Of course, Electrovaya is already a battery supplier to Miljøbil Grenland but according to that company they need a bit more time to put up a new factory in Norway where Indica gliders are currently being shipped for drivetrain integration. Eventually, at least some production of the car will shift to the UK which recently granted (after taking its sweet time) Tata a £10 million loan to enable it to build the car there. The EIG press release awaits your scrutiny after the break.

[Source: Green Car Congress]

Continue reading Tata envisioning big sales of Indica Vista EV?

Tata envisioning big sales of Indica Vista EV? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EIGEnergy Innovation Group Ltd. EIGEnergyInnovationGroupLtd.EigIndica Vista EVIndicaVistaEvlithium polymerLithiumPolymerTata IndicaTataIndicaWed, 28 Oct 2009 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tata increases Nano production to keep up with strong demand]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/report-tata-increases-nano-production-to-keep-up-with-strong-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/report-tata-increases-nano-production-to-keep-up-with-strong-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/report-tata-increases-nano-production-to-keep-up-with-strong-de/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tata Nano - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Autocar in the UK, Tata has a success story on its hands in the form of the diminutive Nano microcar, which is currently for sale in India and is the least expensive new automobile in the world. Says Rajiv Dube, head of Tata's passenger car business:
In the last three months, we have been averaging about 2,500 Nano [sales] per month. We are gearing up for a higher number and we are ramping up our production capacity by 20 percent from this month.
For those keeping track of such things, the production increase should allow Tata to build 3,000 Nanos per month. You may recall that demand was so high when the little car first went on sale that only half of the 2,000 customers that applied for a Nano were awarded a car with the help of a lottery system.

Previous reports indicate that the Indian automaker has its sights set on the European and American markets, possibly by 2011. Company head Ratan Tata has said that hybrids, diesels and all-electric models may be in the offing.


Gallery: Tata Nano


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Tata increases Nano production to keep up with strong demand originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratan tataRatanTatatataTata Motorstata nanotata productiontata salestata-motorstata-nanoTataMotorsTataNanoTataProductionTataSalesWed, 14 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: With Fiat's help, Tata could sell the Nano in Latin America]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/report-with-fiats-help-tata-could-sell-the-nano-in-latin-amer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/report-with-fiats-help-tata-could-sell-the-nano-in-latin-amer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/26/report-with-fiats-help-tata-could-sell-the-nano-in-latin-amer/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tata Nano - Click for high-res image gallery

We knew that the famous - and now available - $2,500 Indian car was heading to Europe and the United States. The next market where the world's cheapest car is going to be sold, thanks to help from Fiat, could be Latin America, according to a report in India Times.

As emerging markets, the countries of Latin America offer great potential for the Nano. Fiat is one of the most important auto markers working in South America and is already partnerign with Tata on engines and transmissions in India. Also, Maseratis and Ferraris (part of the Fiat Group) will be sold in India through the Tata network. What is not yet clear is exactly which model will be sold in Latin America: the U.S. version, the European one, the Indian model (unlikely, as Brazil requires mandatory airbags), or an altogether new Nano?

Gallery: Tata Nano launch close-ups


[Source: Le Blog Auto, India Times]

REPORT: With Fiat's help, Tata could sell the Nano in Latin America originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilfiat tataFiatTatananonano brazilnano in latinamericaNanoBrazilNanoInLatinamericatatatata braziltata fiattata fiat collaborationtata nanoTataBrazilTataFiatTataFiatCollaborationTataNanoSun, 26 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tata threatening to nix Vista electric launch in UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/report-tata-threatening-to-nix-vista-electric-launch-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/report-tata-threatening-to-nix-vista-electric-launch-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/report-tata-threatening-to-nix-vista-electric-launch-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Nano's bigger and all-electric cousin, the Tata Motors' Vista Indica, could be put on hold if the British government doesn't provide the Indian company with a £10 million loan. Unveiled late last year and kind of on display at the SAE World Congress this spring, the Vista EV is supposed to be the vanguard of Tata's electric movement in Europe. Instead, the vehicle's fate - at least in the UK - is now uncertain.

In April, Tata Motors said it wanted to apply for the loan in order to build the car in the UK. Last week, the government told the company that more time is needed before the government will even consider the loan. The Observer newspaper said Tata Motors "is furious" at the long wait time.

In January, the UK announced a £2.3 billion fund of loan guarantees and loans for helping car companies, but none of that money has been released yet. A government spokesman said the fund was, "about long-term investment projects, rather than short-term rescue." Thanks to Shrawan R. for the tip!

[Source: Times of India]

REPORT: Tata threatening to nix Vista electric launch in UK originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tatatata motorstata vistatata vista electricTataMotorsTataVistaTataVistaElectricvista electricVistaElectricMon, 20 Jul 2009 15:37:00 EST<![CDATA[First Tata Nano delivered to customer in Mumbai]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/first-tata-nano-delivery-scheduled-for-today/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/first-tata-nano-delivery-scheduled-for-today/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/first-tata-nano-delivery-scheduled-for-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tato Nano - Click above for high-res image gallery

The first customer to get a Tata Nano has taken delivery of the world's cheapest car today. Tata Motors delivered the car to Mr. Ashok Raghunath Vichare of Mumbai who paid just 100,000 rupees ($2,053 U.S.) for the car. The Nano went on sale earlier this year and has been a source of endless discussion since it was announced in early 2008. While incredibly cheap, other numbers for the tiny car are also impressive: the Automotive Research Association of India rated the Nano at 56 mpg U.S. and it produces emissions of just 101 grams of CO2 per km.

The Indian market is only the first step for the Nano. A Euro-spec model recently passed European crash tests and the car is still scheduled to come to the U.S. at some point.

UPDATE: see pics of the handover here.

Gallery: Tata Nano launch close-ups


[Source: Reuters]

Continue reading First Tata Nano delivered to customer in Mumbai

First Tata Nano delivered to customer in Mumbai originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nanotatatata motorstata nanoTataMotorsTataNanoFri, 17 Jul 2009 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Tata Nano gets its crash on]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/video-tata-nano-gets-its-crash-on/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/video-tata-nano-gets-its-crash-on/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/video-tata-nano-gets-its-crash-on/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tata Nano European crash testing - Click above to watch the video after the break

To all those who thought reports of the Tata Nano passing European crash testing were worthless without pics, we now have a few of those plus one better: Video. It seems the actual Nano submitted for the 50 km/h side impact test and 56 km/h offset frontal impact test was a mildly fortified unit with some extra foam added to the cant rail (the structural member supporting the B-pillar), a reinforced front longitudinal structure, and some added structure behind the front bumper and in the front doors. A remotely-triggered airbag was also fitted for this test.

These comprehensive modifications were apparently enough to prompt Nic Fasci, the UK engineer running the tests, to say, "It looks no different from other cars doing this test. It's a good crash." Tata believes these results bode well for its chances of putting the Nano on European roads by 2012, when the Indian automaker is expected to debut a slightly larger version of the diminutive car complete with a full slate of safety equipment, including fully functional airbags. Click here for a full rundown of the Tata Nano's European crash testing results and click past the break to watch the video. Hat tip to Darren J!



[Source: Automotive Engineer via TataForum.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tata Nano gets its crash on

VIDEO: Tata Nano gets its crash on originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nano crashnano crash testingNanoCrashNanoCrashTestingtatatata motorstata nanotata nano crashtata nano crash testtata nano crash testingtata nano european crash testingTataMotorsTataNanoTataNanoCrashTataNanoCrashTestTataNanoCrashTestingTataNanoEuropeanCrashTestingWed, 15 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tata Nano passes European crash testing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-tata-nano-passes-european-crash-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-tata-nano-passes-european-crash-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-tata-nano-passes-european-crash-testing/#commentsFiled under: ,


2009 Tato Nano - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Tata Nano, the diminutive Indian four-door econobox rumored to eventually arrive in U.S. showrooms, has reportedly passed current European impact testing. According to Autocar, the offset front and side impact tests took place at the MIRA test center last week under supervision by an inspector from Britain's Vehicle Certification Authority. A spokesperson for Tata said the company is "delighted but not surprised" with the results, as the car had already been tested in India.

Sold only in its homeland right now, Tata seems determined to expand its passenger vehicle business to Europe and North America. With that in mind, the automaker is working to upgrade the Nano to ensure the Lilliputian meets "Westernized" crash standards, including the European NCAP tests, and our own NHTSA requirements.



[Source: Autocar UK]

REPORT: Tata Nano passes European crash testing originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingBVCACrashCrash TestCrashTestIIHSIndiananoNCAPNHTSASmall CarSmallCarTata NanoTataNanoTestingWed, 15 Jul 2009 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata wants to bring the Nano to the US within two years]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/07/tata-wants-to-bring-the-nano-to-the-us-within-two-years/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/07/tata-wants-to-bring-the-nano-to-the-us-within-two-years/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/07/tata-wants-to-bring-the-nano-to-the-us-within-two-years/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Tata Nano Europa

Ever since Tata Motors announced plans to build a $2,500 car, speculation has been rife about whether the car would ever make it to the U.S. At the annual meeting of the company this week, Ratan Tata made it clear that the little Nano will indeed come to America if he has anything to do with it. The Nano is currently undergoing modifications and testing to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards. The U.S. version will likely be based on the Nano Europa that was shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

In addition to a model that meets American regulations, Tata is reportedly working on other variants, including a more powerful two-door and even a MINI Clubman-esque wagon. Even the existing four-door will get more powertrain options like all-electric and hybrid drive. The hybrid is likely of the micro-hybrid auto start-stop variety. Tata is also a licensee of the MDI's compressed air drive technology and is working on a Nano-based application. Thanks to Jaz for the tip!

Gallery: Tata Nano


[Source: Indian Autos Blog]

Tata wants to bring the Nano to the US within two years originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tata nanotata nano electrictata nano europatata nano evtata nano usTataNanoTataNanoElectricTataNanoEuropaTataNanoEvTataNanoUsSun, 07 Jun 2009 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tata may add diesel engine and three-door version to the Nano]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/tata-adds-diesel-engine-and-3-door-version-to-the-nano/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/tata-adds-diesel-engine-and-3-door-version-to-the-nano/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/tata-adds-diesel-engine-and-3-door-version-to-the-nano/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tata Nano - Click above for a high res image gallery

After 203,000 firm orders, Indian automaker Tata found out that most buyers had opted for the more expensive variants of the Nano: only 20 percent of orders have been placed for the base model. The consequence is that Tata is considering a new strategy for the Nano, introducing new variants to make it even more attractive for the local market. One of the most important features will be the introduction of a new 0.8-liter diesel engine, developed by German company FEV. A three-door version of the Nano, an idea that was originally rejected, is also in the works. Plans for the European versions are, so far, unchanged, but will surely benefit from the diesel variant.

Gallery: Tata Nano


[Source: Autoblog en Español]

REPORT: Tata may add diesel engine and three-door version to the Nano originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 30 May 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-door nano3-doorNanodiesel nanoDieselNanoindiatata dieseltata motorstata nanoTataDieselTataMotorsTataNanoSat, 30 May 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata receives 203,000 bookings for Nano, twice what they can initially fulfill]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/tata-receives-203-000-bookings-for-nano-twice-what-they-can-ini/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/tata-receives-203-000-bookings-for-nano-twice-what-they-can-ini/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/tata-receives-203-000-bookings-for-nano-twice-what-they-can-ini/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tata Nano - Click above for a high res image gallery

About a month ago, Tata Motors began accepting pre-orders (through a lottery/booking slip form) for the World's Cheapest Car, the Nano. In the first week, Tata announced it had sold over 81,000 booking forms but Tata has even better news to report this week: 203,000 fully paid bookings. Now that the pre-order window has closed, Tata will use a computer to randomly pick the first 100,000 people who will get to take possession of tiny car in July.

The 203,000 bookings represent sales of almost $101 million (U.S.) for the Indian company, and not everyone who orders a Nano is opting for the cheapest of the cheap. Tata Motors says that the Nano Standard makes up 20 percent of the bookings, while the Nano CX snagged 30 percent, leaving the remaining 50 percent of the orders for the top-end Nano LX. The LX apparently offers metallic paint as well as power windows, fog lamps, air conditioning and heater. Thanks to Gustavo for the tip!

Gallery: Tata Nano


[Source: MotorTips, Green Car Congress]

Continue reading Tata receives 203,000 bookings for Nano, twice what they can initially fulfill

Tata receives 203,000 bookings for Nano, twice what they can initially fulfill originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 05 May 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheapest carCheapestCarindianano lxNanoLxtata motorstata nanoTataMotorsTataNanoTue, 05 May 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata Motors look to Scandinavian companies to raise eco-awareness]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/tata-motors-look-to-scandinavian-companies-to-raise-eco-awarenes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/tata-motors-look-to-scandinavian-companies-to-raise-eco-awarenes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/tata-motors-look-to-scandinavian-companies-to-raise-eco-awarenes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Tata Nano - Click above for a high res image gallery

Executives at India's Tata Motors admit that their company is a bit behind the times when it comes to environmental awareness when compared to established players in Europe. "We are behind as far as the world is concerned. There are many Scandinavian companies because they are more conscious of this than the rest of us," says JJ Irani, a director for Tata's automotive business. He adds, "We are not shy of learning."

For this reason, Irani and a few of his colleagues are currently visiting a number of large European companies in an attempt to pick up a few pointers on how to improve their eco-credentials. In addition, the group has plans to meet with executives at some of the world's largest oil companies. Irani hopes these meetings will allow Tata to "catch up faster" than if they were on their own.

What's the big deal? For one, the Tata Nano promises to be one of the most popular vehicles in the world due to its extremely low price and decent performance. This car is going to need huge new plants created for its assembly, and these meetings will hopefully help Tata build the new car with as little impact to the environment as possible.

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


[Source: Financial Times]

Tata Motors look to Scandinavian companies to raise eco-awareness originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tatatata motorstata nanoTataMotorsTataNanoTue, 21 Apr 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[SAE 2009: all-electric Tata Indica getting ready for Norway, then the world]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/sae-2009-all-electric-tata-indica-getting-ready-for-norway-the/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/sae-2009-all-electric-tata-indica-getting-ready-for-norway-the/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/sae-2009-all-electric-tata-indica-getting-ready-for-norway-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tata Indica EV - click for a high res gallery

Although the all-electric Tata Indica on display at the SAE World Congress in Detroit this week is not the soon-to-be-released model, there's a lot we can learn from the vehicle - and from TM4's Eriz Azeroual - about how the technology will be implemented when the new model goes on sale in Norway either later this year or in early 2010 (yes, this is later than previously expected). Tata Motors showed off the Indica EV at the Bologna Motor Show in December, but the hatchback is making an appearance in Detroit because of the work that TM4, a subsidiary of Hydro Québec, did providing the permanent magnet motor and the inverter. TM4's Azeroual (he's business development manager there) told us that a limited number of the Indica's are already testing in Norway and that Tata Motors is "a cool company. Very aggressive." Even though they're most famous for the Nano and apparently wanting to dominate the low-end automobile market, in Europe market they want to be known for electric vehicles.

Norway is a perfect entry point to bring an EV to Europe because there is a high tax on gasoline-powered vehicles. The high cost of electric vehilces isn't totally equalized by the taxes, but EVs and gas-powered vehicle prices end up being "comparable" in Norway and this presents customers with an "interesting choice," Azeroual said. Following the Norwegian introduction, Tata plans to expand the Indica EV to other European markets and then possibly the U.S.

Gallery: SAE 2009: Tata Indica EV

SAE 2009: all-electric Tata Indica getting ready for Norway, then the world originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric tataelectric tata indicaElectricTataElectricTataIndicaindicaindica evIndicaEvsae world congressSaeWorldCongresstatatata indicatata indica electricTataIndicaTataIndicaElectricTue, 21 Apr 2009 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata says it sells over 51,000 Nano "booking forms" in five days]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/07/tata-says-it-sells-over-51-000-nano-booking-forms-in-five-days/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/07/tata-says-it-sells-over-51-000-nano-booking-forms-in-five-days/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/07/tata-says-it-sells-over-51-000-nano-booking-forms-in-five-days/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high res image gallery of the Tata Nano

Tata knew pent-up demand for its super-cheap Nano would be so high in advance of its official delivery date that the Indian automaker set up an unique pre-ordering system allowing potential customers to sign up with booking forms. After all these forms have been collected, a computer will randomly choose the first 100,000 people to take possession of tiny Nano in July.

That process began just five days ago, on April 1st, and Tata has already sold over 51,000 booking forms to its dealer network and individual customers, with another 30,000 or so being taken from a number of Tata partners. Each order form is being sold for 300 Rupees, which is about $6 in U.S. funds. Prices for individual Nanos are reportedly ranging from between 95,000 and 145,000 Rupees ($1,880 to $2,780), which officially makes this the World's Cheapest Car.

One thing seems sure: Tata is going to sell a ton of these cars. Whether or not that's a good thing depends on your particular viewpoint. It's almost a certainty that people will be safer in the four-wheeled enclosed Nano than on the little scooters and cycles they are currently riding, but a number of environmental groups have voiced concerns over the impact this many new cars will have on their surroundings. Regardless of how this ultimately plays out, this is only the beginning.

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


Gallery: Tata Nano launch close-ups


[Source: Economic Times]

Tata says it sells over 51,000 Nano "booking forms" in five days originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nano ordersNanoOrderstatatata motorstata nanotata nano booking formstata nano order formstata nano ordersTataMotorsTataNanoTataNanoBookingFormsTataNanoOrderFormsTataNanoOrdersTue, 07 Apr 2009 19:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics aplenty from Tata Nano's commercial launch]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/pics-aplenty-from-tata-nanos-commercial-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/pics-aplenty-from-tata-nanos-commercial-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/pics-aplenty-from-tata-nanos-commercial-launch/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for the hi-res gallery

Last week's commercial launch of the Nano was a huge event with significant ramifications, not only for the proud parent Tata, but for all of India and possibly the world. Although we weren't on hand to witness the historical event, our good buddy Shrawan Raja from Indian Autos Blog made it to the Crystal room of the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower hotel for the glitzy roll out and managed to shoot some decent close ups of the pint-sized car despite the fawning crowds. Not only did Mr. Raja relay back information about specs and booking details on the day of the press conference he continues to post about his Nano experience. If you want to re-live the excitement for yourself, hit the jump for a lengthy video that includes everything from the parting of the curtains to speeches from company chairman Ratan Tata and price announcements from the president of the passenger cars division, Ravi Kant.

Gallery: Tata Nano launch close-ups



[Source: Indian Autos Blog]
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Shrawan Raja with permission

Continue reading Pics aplenty from Tata Nano's commercial launch

Pics aplenty from Tata Nano's commercial launch originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Nano commercial launchNanoCommercialLaunchRatan TataRatanTataRavi KantRaviKantShrawan RajaShrawanRajaTata NanoTataNanoSun, 29 Mar 2009 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata to send Nano to America?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/tata-to-send-nano-to-america/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/tata-to-send-nano-to-america/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/tata-to-send-nano-to-america/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Tata Nano

Could an extremely inexpensive, minuscule little car like the Tata Nano actually sell in America, the land historically enamored with powerful V8 engines surrounded by as much sheet metal as possible? According to reports, Tata Motors may be about to find out, as the Indian automaker is said to be looking at an introduction into the U.S. market by 2011 or 2012.

What makes Ratan Tata, chairman of the automaker that bears his name, think that his diminutive machine might sell in the United States? The economy, of course. Americans may be willing to accept some of the sacrifices that would go hand-in-hand with owning the World's Cheapest Car, though the version likely to sell in the States would surely differ in major ways from what's is now on sale in India.

If the Tata Nano were to hit the U.S. market, it would need to pass the same safety and emissions regulations as any other car currently sold in America. Those are not insurmountable tasks, however, as proven by the version of the Nano that's planned for European markets. So far, there's no indication how much a Tata Nano would cost in U.S. dollars if it were sold here.

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


[Source: Financial Times]

Tata to send Nano to America? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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After overcoming rises in commodity prices, protests and subsequent change of production venue, the Tata Nano has defied critics and skeptics to launch commercially today at the The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower in Mumbai, India. Amidst an awe-inspiring amount of security (the Taj was the scene of a horrific terrorist attack last November), the humble "1 Lakh" (= to $1985) car had its big coming out party with over 1,000 guests and 100 media teams on hand to witness the event.

Amongst the newly released numbers the most eye-opening is likely the official mileage figure. The 624 cc two cylinder engine, aided by a 4-speed gearbox, is certified by the Automotive Research Association of India to give the Nano an amazing 23.6 kpl (56 mpg U.S.). That gives it not only the highest fuel rating of any other Indian petrol-powered car but also the lowest CO2 figure at 101 gm/km. Available in 3 trim levels, the Tata Nano, with its frugal practicality, may one day prove to be the most common automobile of all time and keep the Nano-dedicated Gujurat plant close to its 350,000 annual capacity once it comes online in 2010. Hit the jump for all the details from the official press release. Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


[Source: Tata / Indian Autos Blog]

Continue reading Tata Nano launches today - 56 mpg for $1,985

Tata Nano launches today - 56 mpg for $1,985 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 Lakh car1LakhCarbreakingTaj Mahal Palace TowerTajMahalPalaceTowerTata commercial launchTata NanoTataCommercialLaunchTataNanoMon, 23 Mar 2009 13:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Euro-spec Tata Nano (it's bigger!) and all-electric Indica]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-euro-spec-tata-nano-its-bigger-and-all-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-euro-spec-tata-nano-its-bigger-and-all-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-euro-spec-tata-nano-its-bigger-and-all-electric/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on image to see the three upcoming Tata Euro-spec models

As we reported, Tata has an Euro-spec Nano on the works. The changes from the Indian version include adding an all-aluminium I3 MPFI engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission and electric power steering. The engine should address all the concerns about Tata's green credentials, as it will be Euro V compliant and have emissions under the 100 g/km of CO2 mark. The Nano Europa will also include significant security equipment like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and airbags. There's also a change in size, as the Nano Europa has a slightly longer wheelbase of 2.28 meters. Tata's all-electric Indica, which was also shown during the SIAM Expo, uses polymer lithium batteries that are expected to offer a range of 200 km (120 mi) and a 0-to-60 km/h (0 to 40 mph) time of less than 10 seconds. The model was adapted by Miljo Grenland/Innovasjon of Norway, where Tata UK's owns 70 percent of the shares. Tata will also include a third model, called Prima, in its future European lineup.

Gallery: Future European Tata Models


[Source: Tata]

Geneva 2009: Euro-spec Tata Nano (it's bigger!) and all-electric Indica originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click to see the complete gallery of the Tata Nano
Sales of the Tata Nano haven't started yet in its native land, India, but speculation about exporting the vehicle to Europe and America is already in the news. Now, Ratan Tata has announced that his company will be bringing the Nano to the Old Continent in the coming months, as well as for the Geneva Motor Show (the car was a hit in Geneva in 2008). Mr. Tata mentioned that the car would pass the EuroNCAP crash tests, as well as the Euro V anti-pollution legislation - two must-meet conditions for the car to be sold in Europe. There was no mention of the plant that would produce this model, just that prices will start at €5,000. By way of comparison, you can find a Dacia Sandero 1.2 for roughly €8,000. Oh, and an American Nano is also in the works.

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


[Source: Le Blog Auto]

Geneva Preview: Tata to bring the euro-spec Nano back for more? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratan tataRatanTatatata motorsTataMotorsFri, 27 Feb 2009 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Tata to launch Nano on March 23, begin taking orders April first week in April]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/tata-to-launch-nano-on-march-23-begin-taking-orders-april-first/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/tata-to-launch-nano-on-march-23-begin-taking-orders-april-first/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/tata-to-launch-nano-on-march-23-begin-taking-orders-april-first/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on the image above for a gallery of the Tata Nano

The Tata Nano has endured more than its fair share of delays, having originally carried a planned sale date of October, 2008. Needless to say, that time frame came and went with zero Nanos rolling down the assembly line, due to a wide range of issues, not the least of which was a great deal of civil unrest at the first site where production was planned in West Bengal. The Nano's assembly plant was relocated to Gurajat.

All that bad news seems to be over today as Tata has announced that its little city car will finally be launched on March 23 and the Indian automaker will begin accepting orders just a few short weeks later. The price being thrown around is 100,000 rupees, which translates to just under $2,000 in U.S. dollars at current exchange rates. That would make the Nano, which comes equipped with a 625cc twin cylinder gasoline engine, the world's cheapest automobile.

Gallery: Tata Nano: The People's Car


[Source: Tata Motors]

Continue reading Tata to launch Nano on March 23, begin taking orders April first week in April

Tata to launch Nano on March 23, begin taking orders April first week in April originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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