The future of Tata Motors’ problem child, the Tata Nano, has
been in the balance for years. But, as sales dwindle to unflattering levels and
allegations abound on the model acting as a drain on capital, the tiny car
touted as the future of mobility for India’s budget-minded middle class might
well be looking at another lease of life—as an electric vehicle.
The last week saw several indications that the company is
serious about transforming the car into an electric model.
However, sources confirm that later during the week, the
company conducted a test of an electric Nano at its test track in Coimbatore.
What’s more, chairman emeritus Ratan Tata, whose pet project the car is, was
also present.
On Saturday, the company confirmed that it will not phase
out the Nano, but look at alternate avenues to reposition the car. “We cannot
phase out this car. Sentiments of the company, Ratan Tata and shareholders are
attached to it. We are looking at how it can be repositioned,” said Satish B
Borwankar, chief operating officer, Tata Motors.
Analysts say the move to electrify, if it materialises,
could well be the Nano’s lifeline. “The Nano has been struggling, despite the
modifications and upgrades effected later. However, an electric version of the
car could be a game changer, especially if it is released sooner than
competition,” observed a senior analyst.
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