Tata Finally Unveils 'Nano' The Swanky Rs.1 Lakh Car

At last, after five years of speculations, Tata Motors finally unveiled the world's cheapest car, named 'Nano' in the Indian Auto Expo 2008 in New Delhi. The car costs $2000 or Rs.1 lakh. The car is all set to target the middle class, and who knows, it may be the largest selling car in India after Maruti 800. The mini-car is sure to put Indians in the driver's seat. Ratan Tata, chairman of the second largest, and one of the oldest companies of India wants every Indian to drive, just as Capt.G.R Gopinath, the founder of Air Deccan, want every Indian to fly.

Well, now let's look at its dimensions. Its 3 metres long, 1.5 metres wide and 1.5 metres high and has four seats. Unfortunately, there is very little boot space. The car is a rear mounted, 33 horsepower, MPFi engine, which boasts a mileage of 20 kilometres a litre. Moreover, it is in accordance with Euro IV standards, which makes it less polluting than other vehicles. The car actually reminded me of the Small car used by Inspector Klauseau(Steve Martin) in the movie Pink Panther

The production of the car may start this year in Singur, Orissa. There was quite a controversy on this issue as the farmers there weren't willing to give up their lands for the factory construction. Or perhaps, the Tatas did not provide enough compensation. But as history goes, the Tatas are well known philanthropists. Or maybe, it's just good old politics. Even during the launch, protesters gathered at the venue as the media coverage was very large and the protesters hoped to get some exposure.

With the launch of this car, Tata Motors has has started a new era, which will see many competitors slugging it out to make the cheapest car. For example, Bajaj, the two wheeler major and the pioneer of the autorickshaws, plans to tie with Renault and develop a $3000 dollar car. Even Hero Honda plans to produce a similar car, but maybe it's electric version. But, the best part is, thanks to this competition, millions of Indians and others will be benefited from this launch. For instance, Maruti Suzuki is expected to slash the rates of the small segment cars. Now it's time to hope for an electric version so that it is cost, user and environmental friendly.