The ‘cheapest car in the world’ tag for the Tata Nano didn’t work well for the sales of the car, as that tag doesn’t go with the image Indian car buyers would like to associate with. The Nano was meant to be the replacement for two-wheelers so that people can afford it easily and commute safely. Tata Motors Managing Director Karl Slym states that the manufacturer won’t phase out the Nano, instead it will update the Nano with improved convenience and safety features that will bring up the prices and image of the car. Slym hinted that the Tata Nano can go the Pixel way, the concept showcased at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
The Tata Pixel concept is a two-door hatchback with scissor doors, automatic transmission, zero turn technology and features a 3-cylinder 1.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine. If the Pixel concept is the future of the Nano, then Tata Motors can expect great appreciation from the Indian buyers for the premium feature rich Nano. Coming up with Nano’s premium avatar will take some time, meanwhile we can expect minor tweaks and upgrades with the Nano coming this year which is expected to feature a bigger 800cc engine, power steering, cosmetic interior and exterior upgrades along with an opening boot.
Currently the Tata Nano runs on a 2-cylinder 624cc petrol motor that produces a maximum power of 37 BHP with a peak torque of 51 Nm, mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox transmitting the power to the rear wheels. The Nano is well known for its spacious interiors and frugal engine that returns 25 km/l fuel efficiency. Tata Motors managed to sell only 2,29,157 units of the Nano since its launch in July 2009 and sales in March 2013 dipped by 86 percent compared to last year. The dealers are struggling hard to clear the piling up stocks. They are now offering several financial schemes for the Nano.
Source – Bloomberg
