Tata Motors has previously shown both an electric as well as a petrol version of its Curvv concept, and announced that both would see a market launch. However, we have learnt that the company is also readying a diesel-powered Curvv.
- Curvv EV to launch first, followed by diesel
- New direct-injection turbo-petrol engine to debut with Curvv
- Will rival midsize SUVs like the Creta and Seltos
As we've reported earlier, the Curvv EV will be the first to go on sale in the second half of this year. We now understand that the diesel version will launch next, followed by the petrol model. The diesel engine in question would be the same 1.5-litre unit that does duty in the Nexon.
This engine was upgraded to comply with BS6.2 emissions norms last year; Tata used a Passive Selective Catalytic Reduction system instead of an expensive SCR system, which requires a urea tank and injection system. This system is fit to soldier on until the next round of emissions norms are enforced.
No power and torque upgrades are expected, which means the Curvv diesel will have 115hp and 260Nm of torque – same as the Nexon. Gearbox choices will include a 6-speed manual and an AMT, similar to the Nexon.
Despite their overall decline and uncertain future, Tata Motors is clearly not giving up on diesels as they still make up about a quarter (24 percent) of the midsize SUV segment. Furthermore, the diesel share comes from only two SUVs in the segment; the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Thus, with the Curvv getting diesel, electric and petrol powertrains, Tata Motors has a much better chance of gaining a significant share in the very crowded midsize SUV space, which currently has as many as eight contenders.
Tata Curvv India launch timeline
Sources tell us that series production of the Curvv will commence around April this year at Tata Motors’ Ranjangaon plant near Pune. Tata Motors has set a sales target of around 48,000 units for the Curvv SUV, which will be split between its EV and combustion-engined iterations; 12,000 units expected from the Curvv EV.
Also see:
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Tata Motors aims for EVs to make up 15-17 percent of its volume in 2024
