Tata Motors to Launch Nano

After a long series of controversies and hurdles, the most awaited world's cheapest car Tata Nano is set to launch this week at the Gymkhana Club in Mumbai.

Ratan Tata first showcased the Nano at the 2008 Auto Expo in New Delhi where the car had received a tremendous response. Thereafter, the Nano has created a big hype amongst car buyers and car enthusiasts. Some of the auto manufacturers even questioned the development of the car in terms of design and technologies whilst maintaining a low price tag of Rs 1 Lakh. Fortunately, it is expected to be rolled out with a price tag of around Rs 1 Lakh (Ex-showroom - New Delhi).

The car will have a length of 3.1 metres, width of 1.5 metres, and height of 1.6 metres, along with adequate ground clearance of 180 mm to make the car effortlessly maneuver on congested city roads as well as rural areas.

Under the hood, it will be powered by a responsive all-aluminium, two-cylinder, 623 cc, 32 bhp, multi point fuel injection petrol engine positioned at the rear. The car will also be fitted with a uniquely designed electronic engine management system to boost performance. Furthermore, it will have the front McPherson strut suspension and the rear independent coil spring to provide better stability and handling.

The Nano will meet all safety requirements and stringent emission norms. It will have a host of safety features including the crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, strong seats and anchorages, and the rear tailgate glass bonded to the body. The car is also expected to have lower carbon dioxide emissions as compared to the two-wheelers manufactured in India.

At present, Tata Motors is burdened by the loan taken from Ford Motors to buy Jaguar and Land Rover. The company took a loan of $3 billion out of which Tata still has to repay a loan of $2 billion. Furthermore, the global recession has pulled down the sales of the company's commercial vehicles due to which the company has become financially vulnerable. So, now the company ties high hopes to the Nano as the success of this ultra-cheap will play a crucial role in improving the financial health of the company.

Sources: http://blog.carazoo.com/2008/04/jaguar-and-land-rover-launch-is-far.html; http://www.carazoo.com/autonews/0407200801/Tata-Motors-to-Expand-Production-Capacity-for-Nano