Automobile Desk: The craze of electric SUV is increasing very fast in the Indian automobile market. Customers no longer want to be limited to just small segments or 5-seater EVs, but the demand for 3-row electric vehicles for larger families is also increasing rapidly. To capitalize on this changing demand, Tata Motors is preparing to launch the electric version of its most popular and powerful SUV 'Safari'. According to auto sector reports and leaks, Tata Safari EV can be officially introduced in January 2027. This car will make a place in the company's portfolio as the most premium and flagship electric SUV.
Tata Safari has always been known for its spacious 3-row seating, strong body structure and comfortable long distance travel. The company is going to completely retain its old heritage and identity in its electric avatar also. After coming into the market, it is going to compete directly with vehicles like Mahindra's upcoming electric SUV Mahindra XEV 9S.
This vehicle can prove to be quite powerful in terms of driving range and power backup. If leaks are to be believed, Tata can offer three battery pack options in its new SUV according to different needs, which include 65 kWh, 75 kWh and a larger battery of 80 kWh in the top-spec variant. With a large battery pack of 80 kWh, this car may be able to deliver a claimed range of more than 600 kilometers on a single charge. Having such a long range will not only make daily city driving easier, but will also completely eliminate range anxiety for people traveling long distances on the highway.
Talking about architecture and performance, the new Safari EV will be built on Tata's advanced Acti.ev+ platform. This is the same modern architecture on which Tata is also building its Harrier EV. With the help of this platform, both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain options can be seen in the car. The motor in the RWD model will power only the rear wheels, while the AWD variant will get a dual-electric motor setup on both the front and rear axles. The all-wheel-drive option will greatly improve the grip and overall performance of the vehicle during rough terrain and off-roading.
In terms of interior and features, the company is going to give it a very luxury and modern look. Spy pictures revealed during testing show that a premium triple-screen setup can be given on its dashboard. This layout will include a digital instrument cluster for the driver, a large touchscreen infotainment system in the center and a separate entertainment display for the front passenger (co-passenger).
To give a luxury experience to the cabin, it is almost certain to have features like panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, advanced connected car technology, wireless smartphone charger and high-end audio system. Apart from this, modern features like 540-degree camera and digital inside rear-view mirror (IRVM) can also be provided to ease parking and visibility.
Even on the safety front, Tata Motors does not want to leave any stone unturned. Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) technology can be provided in the new Safari EV, under which facilities like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control will be available. Additionally, the battery pack will also be protected with special protection plates to suit Indian roads.
On the price front, it is estimated that the starting ex-showroom price of Tata Safari EV can be kept around Rs 20 lakh to Rs 23 lakh. At the same time, the price of its top variant equipped with big battery pack, AWD technology and triple-screen can go around Rs 30 lakh to Rs 32 lakh.