Tata Motors, a prominent name in the Indian automotive industry, has been making waves with its range of vehicles, including the Safari and Harrier. Recently, a camouflaged Tata Safari facelift was spotted testing in Indore, raising questions about its powertrain. The mystery shrouding this test mule suggests that it could be either an electric vehicle (EV) or a testbed for the company’s upcoming 1.5L GDI turbo petrol engine.
**A Transformative Facelift**
Tata Motors has been on a mission to enhance its SUV lineup and make it more competitive, especially in the mid-size SUV segment. The Tata Safari and Harrier have received significant updates, turning them into highly desirable offerings that can rival the likes of MG Hector and Hector Plus.
Despite their recent launches, Tata Motors has been relentless in testing these SUVs. The reason behind this continued testing could be the development of the new 1.5L GDI turbo petrol engine. This powertrain, part of Tata’s roadmap, is expected to debut in approximately a year.
**Electric or Turbo Petrol: Deciphering the Clues**
The test mule of the Tata Safari facelift spotted in Indore was heavily draped in camouflage, making it challenging to discern its true nature. The open-type top grille in the spy shots hints at an internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain. However, it’s equally plausible that Tata is assessing its new electric powertrain, set to hit the market before the 1.5L GDI engine.
Tata is on the cusp of introducing four new electric vehicles in early 2024, which increases the likelihood that this Safari facelift could be an EV. If it were a turbo petrol variant, the extensive camouflage wouldn’t be necessary. The camouflage suggests the possibility of a new color scheme and some specific sheet metal or body kits designed for Safari EV and Harrier EV.
**Design Continuity**
Whether it’s an ICE or an EV, Tata is likely to maintain design continuity between the two versions. This includes vertically arranged LED headlights, a wide LED DRL light bar, and a sporty bumper. The rear design is also expected to remain consistent. Enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Harrier EV is likely to come equipped with rear disc brakes as standard.
Tata has already confirmed that the 1.5L GDI turbo petrol engine will deliver around 170 PS of peak power and 280 Nm of peak torque. While specific details about Harrier EV and Safari EV are yet to be revealed, the former was showcased as a near-production-ready model at the 2023 Auto Expo. There are speculations of a substantial 60 kWh battery with a range of nearly 500 kilometers, and the possibility of a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive (AWD).
If Harrier and Safari indeed feature AWD capabilities, it would be a long-awaited enhancement, particularly for the Safari. The features and creature comforts in the EV versions are expected to align closely with their ICE counterparts.
**Competition and the Road Ahead**
When the Harrier EV and Safari EV hit the market, they will primarily compete with the electrified version of the Mahindra XUV700, known as the XUV.e8. Mahindra has been actively promoting its EVs, with a recent teaser demonstrating a top speed of 200 km/h for one of its electric models. The XUV.e8 is also expected to spawn a coupe version, the XUV.e9, both featuring dual-motor layouts with AWD.
While the Harrier and Safari GDI turbo petrol variants will continue to compete in the mid-size segment, which includes rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and Scorpio N, MG Hector and Hector Plus, Hyundai Alcazar, Toyota Innova Hycross (MPV), and others.
As Tata Motors paves the way for an electrified future with the potential introduction of Safari and Harrier EVs, the automotive landscape in India is set to become even more exciting. These SUVs represent Tata’s commitment to innovation and its ongoing efforts to meet the changing demands of the Indian consumer.
source: Rushlane
