In a packed event marked by Mr Cyrus Mistry first public appearance as the Chairman-designate of Tata Motors, the automaker unveiled its new Safari SUV model and two commercial vehicles (CVs) at the Auto Expo.
While the Safari ‘Storme', Tata Ultra CVs and the Tata LPT 3723 5-axle rigid truck will be launched this year, the company also showcased four concept alternate fuel vehicles - Nano CNG, Indigo Manza diesel-electric hybrid sedan, Starbus fuel cell and the Magic Iris CNG.
Though neither Mr Mistry nor Chairman, Mr Ratan Tata, spoke to the assembled audience, Mr P.M. Telang, MD, India Operations, said the new products are expected to fill in certain gaps in the market, which they have been designed for.
“The new Safari brings a contemporary, yet adventurous look. The Ultra is our next new range in light and intermediate commercial vehicles after Prima heavy trucks. The Tata LPT 3723 offers better operator economic through higher efficiency,” Mr Telang said.
The four-wheel drive Safari features a 2.2-litre common rail diesel engine putting out 140 bhp and comes with ABS and a reverse parking system. It also has a new grill, chrome-tipped twin exhausts and projector headlamps.
Among other vehicles, the Nano-based Pixel city car was also displayed, apart from sport models of cars such as the Indica Vista.