IndiBlog

Ratan Tata has done the impossible and proved all critics wrong with the launch of the world’s cheapest car in India today. The Tata Nano which was first showcased at the Delhi Auto Expo 2008 was launched today at an ex-factory price of Rs. 1 lakh for the base model. The small Nano is powered by a 624cc 2-cylinder rear mounted engine which produces 35 PS of power and is mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. Though the power output seems miniscule, it is sufficient to move the 600 kg Nano to an electronically limited top speed of 105 km/h. The word’s cheapest car is also very frugal, sipping one litre of petrol every 23.6 km and making sure that owners find it economical to run as well. The low fuel consumption translated into an environment friendly CO2 emissions figure of 101gm/km. The Nano also comes with an 18 month/24,000 km warranty cover.

The Nano’s launch was delayed due to problems with its previous plant in Singur, West Bengal. The car is now being made in Tata’s Pantnagar plant until the new dedicated plant at Sanand in Gujarat comes online in 2010 with an annualised capacity of 350,000 cars.

The Nano has been launched in three variants:

Tata Nano Standard: The standard version, in three colour options, single-tone seats, and fold-down rear seat;

Tata Nano CX: In five colour options, with heating and air-conditioning (HVAC), two-tone seats, parcel shelf, booster-assisted brakes, fold-down rear seat with nap rest;

Tata Nano LX: With the features of CX plus complete fabric seats, central locking, front power windows, body coloured exteriors in three premium colours, fog lamps, electronic trip meter, cup holder in front console, mobile charger point, and rear spoiler. Many of these features are not available on current entry-level small cars in the country.

The Tata Nano has been priced between Rs. 1,20,000 - Rs. 1,70,000(ex-showroom) depending on the variant. Bookings start on April 9th with deliveries beginning July’ 2009. The Nano can be booked through over 30,000 points and online too. A host of financial institutions will provide finance for the booking amount too.