The Tata Nano Makes Its Debut

Coming it at just over $2,000 the ultra-cheap Nano from Tata Motors has been labeled the world's cheapest car. Debuting today in Mumbai, India the Nano is set to go on sale soon in developing markets like China and India, but we shouldn't expect it here in the states anytime soon.

The Nano will come in three different trim levels all built of the cars scant 10.2 in frame that only weights in at 600 kg. The base package is pretty standard with nearly no extras. If you want air conditioning, a radio, or power steering, you'll have to pay extra.

1. Tata Nano Standard (BSII* and BSIII*): The standard version, in three colour options, single-tone seats, and fold-down rear seat;
2. Tata Nano CX (BSII* and BSIII*): In five colour options, with heating and air-conditioning (HVAC), two-tone seats, parcel shelf, booster-assisted brakes, fold-down rear seat with nap rest;
3. Tata Nano LX: (BSIII*) With the features of CX plus complete fabric seats, central locking, front power windows, body colored exteriors in three premium colors, fog lamps, electronic trip meter, cup holder in front console, mobile charger point, and rear spoiler. Many of these features are not available on current entry-level small cars in the country.

PERFORMANCE & SPECIFICATIONS


Performance The 2-cylinder engine – delivering 35 PS @ 5250 rpm and a torque of 48 Nm @ 3000 rpm - enables the car to have a top speed of 105 kmph and negotiate inclines with a gradeability of 30%.

Fuel efficiency: 23.6 km/litre, certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) under mandated test conditions, which is the highest for any petrol car in India.

Emission: The high fuel efficiency, coupled with a low kerb weight of 600 kg, ensures that the Tata Nano – at 101 gm / km - has the lowest CO2 emission amongst cars in India. The Tata Nano is BS-III* compliant and is BS-IV* ready. It is also available in BS-II* norms.

Safety: The Tata Nano's safety performance exceeds current requirements for several of the countries it will be sold in, but can not and likely will not pass requirements here in the states. Thus the reason I feel we will not see it sold here any time soon.

According to TataMotors it passes the roll-over test and offset impact, which are not regulated in India. It has an all sheet-metal body, reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, besides mandatory seat belts and complies fully with existing Indian safety standards. The car doesn't feature airbags or anti-lock brakes neither of which are requirements for Indian car standards.

Tata Nano review by Autocar