Tata Altroz EV unveiled at Geneva show; India launch in 2020

Tata Motors has showcased its all-new electric vehicle, the Tata Altroz EV, at the Geneva Motor Show. The electric vehicle, which claims a range of more than 250 km, could be a major breakthrough for the EV market in India, when launched in 2020.

With electric versions of the Tiago and Tigor models already in the market, Tata Motors expects a faster transformation to electric mobility in the country.

Tata could also launch Altroz as a hybrid option in the future. Hybrid Altroz could help allay fears that people usually have about getting stranded when the battery runs out of their fully electric vehicle. It would be a good option till the time proper EV infrastructure is developed in the country.

The new Altroz-based electric hatchback, unveiled at the ongoing Geneva International Motor Show, the Altroz EV is based on the ALFA-ARC architecture which supports electrification as well.

The electric version looks very similar to the regular Altroz, and has the same dimensions. However, Tata has added a few features like dual-LED headlamps, which flank the sleek and lowered front grille. It gets 16-inch alloy wheels and some modifications around the front wing mirrors and around the window lines.

Tata claims that it will take 60 minutes to charge from zero to 80 per cent. The claimed range is 250-300 km, which is likely to vary in the real world. The Altroz EV will have a longer range than the Tata Tigor EV (130km claimed) and Mahindra eVerito (140km claimed range).

The Altroz EV is also expected to cost higher than both the eVerito, which is priced at Rs10.47 lakh and the eTigor.

Once launched in India, the Altroz EV will compete with the Hyundai Kona, Nissan Leaf and upcoming unnamed MG electric SUV. Expect price to be in excess of Rs15 lakh at launch.

Govt of India has just announced phase 2 of FAME scheme, which has set aside Rs10,000 crore for providing subsidy to EV buyers in India. Electric and hybrid car buyers can get subsidy of up to Rs2.5 lakhs. This scheme will definitely help push EV and hybrid car sales in India.

Tata Motors also showcased the 7-seat Tata Harrier, named Buzzard, and the Tata H2X small SUV concept Hornbill at the Geneva Motor Show.