Tata Motors has been one of the select few automakers in India that have successfully entered the electric mobility space. Although the company sells passenger cars like the Nexon EV and Tigor EV, in current market conditions, the larger focus is on goods and the public transportation segment. In fact, several state transport departments have already incorporated the company's electric buses into their fleet. As for the next step, the home-grown automaker believes that the intra-city last mile cargo transportation space is what will emerge as the next opportunity for electric vehicles (EVs).
Girish Wagh, President, CV Business Unit, Tata Motors says intra-city last-mile transport is expected to emerge as the next opportunity for EVs
Speaking to the media post the launch of the company's new Ultra Sleek T.Series trucks, Girish Wagh, President, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors said, "With advancements in battery technology and falling battery prices, electrification will become economically viable in increased use cases within commercial passenger, as well as cargo applications. Catalysed by continued policy support, the adoption of EV buses in metros and large cities for public transportation is already gaining traction. In cargo application, the intra-city last-mile transport is expected to emerge as the next opportunity for EVs, as these use cases require moderate driving range within a defined geography. Tata Motors is engaging with progressive customers to develop an end-to-end EV solution, including charging infrastructure, for the last mile application."
Also Read: Tesla In Talks With Tata Power For EV Charging Infrastructure: Report
Tata Motors believes a product like the Ultra T.7 Electric truck would best fit the city transportation needs
Tata Motors has been working on an electric Intermediate and Light Commercial Vehicle (I&LCV) for a while now. In fact, last year, at the 2020 Auto Expo the company showcased its first-ever electric I&LCV, which is part of its Ultra range of trucks. The company believes a product like the Ultra T.7 Electric truck would best fit the city transportation needs as it is designed to address the agile goods movement across all business applications. At the moment, there is no confirmation on when the Tata Ultra T.7 Electric truck will be launched.
The model showcased at the Auto Expo 2020, however, comes with a 62.5 kWh battery, powering an electric motor that produces 220 kW (295 bhp) and a peak torque of 2800 Nm. The model comes with a top speed of 80 km and a claimed electric range of 100 km on a single charge. The electric truck came with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of up to 8750 kg, and a payload of up to 4935 kg.
