The much-anticipated Tata Altroz EV, first showcased in 2019, is still in development, though its launch has been pushed back due to challenges in battery packaging.
The Long Wait for the Altroz EV
The all-electric version of the Tata Altroz has been on car enthusiasts’ radars for quite some time. It made its debut as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show in 2019, followed by a near-production preview at Auto Expo 2020.
Despite the long wait, Tata Motors has confirmed that the Altroz EV, internally codenamed Ascot, remains an active project and is still firmly in their pipeline.
Understanding the Delay
Battery Packaging Was a Key Hurdle
The primary reason for the Altroz EV’s delayed arrival stems from a significant engineering challenge. Tata faced difficulties integrating the battery pack under the car’s floor without compromising ground clearance.
This issue led to a reduction of about 20mm, bringing the ground clearance down to an impractical 145mm. Raising the car’s stance to compensate was not a viable option, as it would have negatively impacted the Altroz’s design and proportions.
Originally, Tata Motors’ MD, Shailesh Chandra, had indicated a 2025 launch for the Altroz EV, placing it after the Harrier EV and Sierra EV. However, it now appears there will be a further extension to this timeline.
Shared Future with the Punch EV
Leveraging Updated Architecture
Good news for the Altroz EV’s development comes from its sibling, the Tata Punch EV. Both models are set to share Tata’s advanced Acti.EV architecture.
The Punch EV is due for a facelift around the festive season this year. Alongside the update for the internal combustion engine model, the electric Punch EV is expected to receive a revamped architecture. This new platform should create more space, allowing for the packaging of a larger battery pack without ground clearance issues.
This upgrade for the Punch EV is a direct response to customer feedback. Many buyers of smaller EVs desire the option for longer inter-city commutes, necessitating a more substantial battery capacity.
What to Expect: Range and Power
Given the shared Acti.EV architecture, the Altroz EV is likely to offer similar battery options and motor specifications to the updated Punch EV.
Currently, the Punch EV offers 25kWh and 35kWh battery units, providing ARAI-certified ranges of 265km and 365km, respectively. Power outputs are 82hp and 122hp. The Altroz EV can be expected to feature similar powertrain options.
While there might be some overlap in pricing with the Punch EV (which ranges from Rs 10 lakh-14.44 lakh ex-showroom), Tata believes the Altroz EV will attract a distinct set of buyers, minimizing sales cannibalization.
- The Tata Altroz EV has been delayed primarily due to challenges with battery packaging and maintaining adequate ground clearance.
- It will utilize Tata’s updated Acti.EV platform, which is also set to benefit the upcoming Punch EV facelift.
- Expect the Altroz EV to offer similar battery and motor specifications as the updated Punch EV, catering to demand for longer ranges.
As Tata continues to refine its electric vehicle strategy, the Altroz EV remains an important part of its future portfolio, promising a premium electric hatchback experience once it officially hits the market.
