New details on the Tata Nano Europa

[Andy]

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The Tata Nano Europa has been highly anticipated ever since it was previewed at the 79th Geneva Motor show last year. With an expected release date of 2011, the European version of the world’s cheapest car will be priced at around £4,000 – £5,000 compared to its £2,000 retail price in India because of the modifications done in terms of safety and creature comforts to meet the needs of the European market.

The Tata Nano passed the 40% offset crash test at 56 kph and side-impact tests at the MIRA crash test facility supervised by an inspector from the British Vehicle Certification Authority in July although there were a couple of changes made to the test vehicle. The test vehicle had some extra foam added to the cant rail, a reinforced front longitudinal structure and added structure behind the front bumper and the front doors. Bear in mind that this Nano is the exact same vehicle being sold in India and not the European-modified version. The test was done just to show that the car will be able to meet existing safety regulations when it is launched in Europe as early as next year. The Tata Nano needs to pass Euro NCAP safety standards, as well as the Euro 5 anti-pollution legislation.


Steve Cropley of Autocar was given a sneak preview of the Tata Nano Europa in December and the details have been released. The Tata Nano Europa will have an all-steel body and will be slightly larger, with a length of 129.52 inches, 7.52 longer than the Nano released in India but still a lot less than its European counterparts. It will also have a width of 62.20 inches and a wheelbase of 89.76 inches. The Tata Nano Europa will be riding on 14-inch alloy wheels and getting all-independent rear suspension features. For enhanced safety, it will also be equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, electric power steering, twin airbags and electronic stability control.


Furthermore, the Tata Nano Europa will be powered by a Euro 5-compliant 1.0-liter 3-cylinder all-aluminum MPFI engine that can make around 60 hp, coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox for improved fuel economy and reduced CO₂ emissions. Boot access remains undecided although a full-size hatchback is still in consideration for the Tata Nano Europa. The original Tata Nanos are strictly 4-door, which means the car boot does not open from the outside.