Nano EV in Europe by 2012, confirms Tata

The Tata Nano is to launch in Europe in 2011, followed by an electric version in 2012, Tata confirmed March 2 at the Geneva Auto Show.

The "Nano Europa" is to be 20 centimeters longer than its Indian counterpart and will include some additional features for the European market such as improved suspension and ABS braking. The price has not been confirmed by Tata.

Tata is displaying a Nano EV at Geneva and says that it will offer a range of up to 160 km and a 0-60 km/h acceleration of under 10 seconds. It will join the firm's larger Indica Vista, which has a range of up to 200 km, as the centerpieces of its electric portfolio.

Mr. Ravi Kant, Vice Chairman of Tata Motors, said, "Electrification will be an integral part of our initiative to launch environment-friendly vehicles. The Indica Vista EV will be introduced in select European countries, beginning this year. We will progressively introduce electric vehicles in all relevant markets."

The Tata Nano is priced from Rs 100,000 (approx €1,500) in India, making it the least expensive production car in the world. In December 2009, it was awarded the 2010 Indian Car of the Year award by Indian automotive journalists.

Website: http://www.tatamotors.com