Tata Motors is gearing up to launch the Harrier EV in the first quarter of CY2025. As the leading electric vehicle (EV) brand in the Indian passenger vehicle market, Tata Motors already offers five EV models: Tiago EV, Tigor EV, Punch EV, Nexon EV, and Curvv EV. The company’s upcoming addition to its EV lineup is the Harrier EV.
The electric version of the Harrier was first unveiled as a concept at the Auto Expo 2023 and subsequently showcased at the inaugural Bharat Mobility Show. In recent months, test mules of the battery-powered mid-size SUV have been spotted on multiple occasions. Notably, there have been new developments in the Harrier EV’s drivetrain, indicating progress in its development.
Tata Motors’ current lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) features a front-wheel drive (FWD) layout. However, the company recently disclosed that the upcoming ATLAS (Adaptive Tech Forward Lifestyle Architecture) platform, which serves as the foundation for the Curvv.EV, has the capability to accommodate an all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration. It is highly likely that this AWD system will be introduced with the Harrier EV.
New Drive Selector with Terrain Modes
Tata Motors has recently filed a patent application for a new drive selector, revealing details about the battery-powered Harrier. The new design patent indicates that the rotary knob will include terrain modes such as Normal, Snow, Sand, Rock, and Grass. It is suggested that, except for Normal mode, the Harrier EV will engage AWD in all other modes, offering varying levels of traction. This implies that the Harrier EV will feature a twin-motor setup powering each axle, marking Tata Motors’ return to the 4×4 drivetrain space, following the discontinuation of the Hexa and Safari Storme in 2020.
It appears unlikely that Tata will introduce this new AWD system in its current or upcoming petrol or diesel vehicles. Apart from the Harrier EV, the new drive selector with terrain modes will also be featured in the Sierra EV, expected to be released in 2025 or 2026.
Anticipated Features and Driving Range
The Harrier EV is anticipated to deliver a driving range of approximately 500 km on a single charge, similar to the Nexon EV. It is expected to incorporate advanced features such as Vehicle-2-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-2-Vehicle (V2V) technologies. The V2L capability will enable the Harrier EV to power external devices and household appliances, making it suitable for off-grid applications such as camping. Meanwhile, the V2V feature will allow the Harrier EV to transfer power to another electric vehicle.
Including terrain modes and the AWD system enhance the vehicle’s capabilities, catering to various driving conditions. It’s also interesting to see Tata’s focus on off-grid applications with the V2L capability, providing versatility for outdoor activities. Overall, the Harrier EV seems poised to offer a compelling combination of performance, range, and innovative features in the electric SUV segment.ELCTRIK Speaks
