Tata Motors moves one step closer to European market
Indian car manufacturer Tata Motors has taken a crucial step towards offering its cheapest car in Europe. Tata’s inexpensive Nano recently passed crash tests in Europe and is hoping to eventually pass American crash tests. Tata has made no secret of its intention to market its cars not just in India but worldwide.
The Nano was created by Tata to be the most affordable car in the world at the incredibly cheap price of $2,000 to $2,500 per car. The car launched in India in March of this year with initial orders far exceeding Tata’s production capabilities. This small diesel car was originally able sell at such a low price because it lacked most of the safety and emissions equipment required in Europe and the United States.
As it turned out Tata had to modify the Nano so that it would pass the crash tests that took place at the MIRA test center in the United Kingdom. According to Autobloggreen, the tested Nano had a variety of modifications to its structure for it’s 50 kilometers per hour (31 mph) crash tests.
The modifications included “extra foam added to the cant rail (the structural member supporting the B-pillar), a reinforced front longitudinal structure, some added structure behind the front bumper and in the front doors,” and a “remotely triggered air bag”.
These modifications allowed the car to pass the European safety crash tests but there are still other hurdles that the Nano must clear before actually making it to market in Europe or the U.S. With the increased emissions requirements that have been passed in the U.S. and the stringent European emissions regulations, the dirty little Nano will still need further modifications.
The safety and emissions requirements in India were met by the Nano, but neither are overly stringent. In order to meet the tougher regulations in Europe and the U.S., Tata is going to have to add expensive equipment that will clean up the exhaust and further raise the cost.
Tata expects to release an electric version of the Indica, one of the companies more expensive cars, in Norway later on this year and in India next year. Needless to say electric versions of its cars will meet emissions requirements and probably safety tests. However, the electric cars that Tata has planned will not be sold for $2,000 to $2,500.
After the import fees, it will be interesting to see just how much more the Nano will cost after modifications necessary to even make it to Western car markets.
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July 16th, 2009
I’ve been wondering about the Nano for quite some time now. It’s amazing how dune buggies and sand rails can be licensed in the states but not the Nano.
July 27th, 2009
“dirty little Nano”???
Susan, you are supposed to be an “expert”. Get your facts right before you write.
The Nano gives over 50 miles per gallon and already meets European emission standards.