This Tata Nano EV Is More Affordable Than Royal Enfield Classic 350

EVs are still in nascent stages in India and hence, aren't as popular as ICE-powered vehicles. Previously, we have had an article on a digitally rendered electric Tata Nano. Recently, however, details of Tata Nano-based EV have come to light. One of the interesting bits here is that it costs less than half of the base model Maruti Alto 800. 

The Tata Nano EV is developed by a team of students called E-ight from Mechanical Engineering Department of Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering (VVCE). This electric Nano is built as part of the students’ final year project. The students are reported to have purchased a second-hand Tata Nano for Rs 41,500. The total cost of modification is Rs 96,658. The students had to spend on controllers, batteries, electric motor, some accessories and the labour cost. However, at roughly Rs 1.38 lakh, the electric Tata Nano even costs less than half of a new Maruti Alto 800 Std, which costs Rs 2.96 lakh (ex-showroom)

The Tata Nano EV can cover a range of around 40 kilometres with a single occupant at Rs 1.15/kilometre, which makes it very affordable to drive around. When it comes to four people on board, the travel range reduces to 35 kilometres per charge and the operating cost per kilometres increases to Rs 1.32/kilometre. It takes the EV 36 minutes to be charged to the fullest. However, it is impossible to quick charge the vehicle. Quick charging requires more elaborate equipment including Plus Direct Current chargers, which requires a higher investment.

The Tata Nano EV comes with no quick charging option.

Commenting on the development of the Tata Nano EV, the team stated,

“In the present day, air pollution is a major peril on human health. Foremost part of the air pollution is due to vehicles which run on power generated by Internal Combustion (IC) engines, namely petrol and diesel engines. The Government of India has taken a bold step to curb air pollution caused by vehicles. The alternatives for internal combustion vehicles are EVs,”

The team who have developed the electric Tata Nano have taken a photograph with their product.

In India, it may take several years for EVs to become popular. There are currently three EVs for private owners in the Indian auto market, the Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.