Tata Nexon EV has been creating a buzz in the market of electric vehicles. Recently owners reported unexpected degradation and performance failures in the Tata Nexon EV. Let’s get a little deeper into some of these experiences and see how user-experiences go both ways.
Key Highlights
- Users of Tata Nexon EV faced problems with the sudden drop in charge of battery.
- Tata Motors have provided extended warranty for a period of 8 years or 1.6 lakh kilometer whichever earlier.
- Tata’s service still encourages users to keep using their product.
User Experiences: The Battery Blues
Breakdown Shortly After Delivery
The most significant incident involved a Tata Nexon EV owner in Ahmedabad, who faced a breakdown within just 10 hours of delivery. The car was showing an available range of 201 km, but it displayed a ‘Critical Alert’ message. Had to take it got towed back to the dealership.
The seller exploded, “I don’t want to drive a car that developed problems in just 10-11 hours after taking delivery.”
Unexpectedly Low Range
The second owner experienced a very sharp drop in SOC (State of Charge) following the car’s second major service after covering 15,000 km over 14 months. The battery would continue performing well until it dropped to around 30% and then drain rapidly. Once, the car could only travel 9 km with 28% charge left and almost stranded the owner.
“The battery operates at its best between 100% and around 30% of its charge, after which it rapidly declines. On one particular day the Nexon EV I travelled just 9 km with the last 28% indicated charge, leaving me nearly stranded.” A user Cool_Dube said.
Fortunately, Tata Motors replaced the battery under warranty, and the vehicle was predictable once again.
Chronic Critical Failure
High Voltage critical failure is reportedly stalling several Tata EV users at odd times. There is an instance when the problem occurred while on the move and was associated with 88% SOC. Some just rebooted the vehicle and got it going, others went around service centers, making untold rounds due to component failures. The inconsistency behind this has infuriated many, frustrated with Tata’s communication and support regarding such issues.
Warranty and Support: The Silver Lining
Despite such issues, Tata Motors has assured a 3 year/1.25 lakh km warranty which can be extended to 8-year/1.6 lakh km warranty (paid) for the Nexon EV’s battery and motor, which has comforted many owners. Users like Doddappa S Nisty, clocking over 68,000 km in two years with his Nexon EV, felt elated since their batteries were replaced free of cost within the warranty.
Why should one choose Tata Nexon EV?
Despite few bad experiences, many owners still love their Nexon EVs for several reasons:
- It is more affordable compared with other electric vehicles such as Hyundai Kona and MG ZS EV.
- Given a 5-star safety rating, it is considered one of the best family cars.
- Availability of Servicing: Tata has spread several service centers in India, which supports easier servicing and better access in case of damage of the vehicle.
“Even after 20 days, my car fails to start. I was informed that it is not the main battery pulling out but the smaller battery that charged all the electrical devices which gets exhausted in every 15 days.” She ended on a very positive note saying: “Despite this problem, Tata’s service is wonderful. I would give a suggestion to others also to take this car.” Video review from Nexon EV owner about her ownership experience.
ELCTRIK Speaks
While there might be some valid concerns on the basis of the experiences in the battery performance and reliability from some owners of Tata Nexon EV. This manufacturer does have an intent to bring customers comfortability over their purchase since it can provide service and warranty from the brand. Electric vehicles are ever-changing. Thus, these experiences should be weighed against those needs and expectations while choosing to buy a vehicle.
