Tata Motors is getting aggressive with its product strategy for the Indian market. The company has officially announced to launch 4 new electric SUVs including the new Nexon, Harrier EV, Punch EV and the Curvv SUV Coupe. In a recent conference, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Motors, hinted at the possibility of a Jeep-like rugged SUV for the growing Indian market. The new lifestyle SUV is likely under development, which could challenge the likes of the Mahindra Thar and the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
Speaking to shareholders at Tata Motors’ 78th Annual General Meeting, N Chandrasekaran, said, “Tata Motors continues to evaluate all the different spaces. (Jeep like SUV) This is also getting evaluated.”
“We have many options that we are considering, we will make a decision to launch the product in the appropriate segment and space. But whenever we launch it, it won’t be a me-too product, it will be with a differentiation.” He further added.
The homegrown automaker, Tata Motors will introduce a new crossover coupe Curvv in early 2024. This will start a new segment in the mainstream mid-sized SUV category. Adding to it, Tata will bring back the iconic Sierra lifestyle SUV by 2025. This lifestyle SUV is expected to come with off-roading capabilities.
The affordable lifestyle SUV segment is in heavy demand, as Mahindra has already sold over 1 lakh Thar since its launch in 2020. Moreover, the company currently has 68,000 bookings for the new Thar. The SUV commands a waiting period of over 1 year. On the other hand, Maruti Suzuki introduced the Jimny lifestyle SUV with a stronger 4×4 capabilities. The company has already received over 50,000 bookings for the new micro SUV.
In the past, Tata Motors had delivered multiple lifestyle SUVs with 4×4 capabilities such as the Safari & the Sierra. The company had showcased the Harrier EV with 4 wheel drive capabilities at the 2023 Auto Expo. The company also has the access to Land Rover’s capabilities.
Source – AutoCarIndia