Tata Tiago electric hatchback under development; likely to be launched as first EV of the automaker

Tiago was the first car that Tata Motors launched with the new Impact design language. And now, the hatchback is set to become another first for the brand -- the first electric vehicle.

The Tiago hatchback will be the first electric car model to go on sale from Tata's upcoming electric model range, reports Autocar. The car-maker has been working on battery electric vehicles with UK-based Tata Motors European Technical Centre (TMETC) leading the charge in development work.

Also read: Tata Nano may get a new lease of life as EV under TAMO brand

Tata Motors had previously unveiled the Bolt EV prototype in the UK and the technology developed for this pilot study is expected to be borrowed for the Tiago EV. Tiago's all-new platform is relatively low-cost and that will help Tata Motors to offset costs of the battery and related components for the EV powertrain.

In October 2016, it was reported that Tata Tiago was part of the UK govt-backed initiative to develop autonomous car technologies. A video had shown Tiago performing a test called GLOSA (Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory). Through this technology, the car is connected to the traffic signal system.

It has been designed to reduce waiting time as well as minimise emissions and maximise fuel efficiency. The advanced version of the technology is expected feature in the Tiago electric on a later stage.

Tata Nano is another model in the works with an electric powertrain. The future of Ratan Tata's dream project has been murky for some time with sluggish sales. Tata Motors' TAMO sub-brand is reportedly giving a new lease of life to Nano.

After the launch of RaceMo race car, the next car from TAMO is an urban hatchback. The hatchback is likely to get the name Nano.

Tata Motors is stepping on the EV segment after the NITI Aayog expressed plans of going for all-electric car by 2030 with an express objective of lowering fuel import bill and running cost of vehicles. Tata Motors plans to make the most of this shift towards electric mobility.

Source: Autocar