Rumour: Tata Nano Electric Vehicle spotted testing

Thanks to BHPian tushky who sent the spyshots in. Heartfelt gratitude for sharing it with other enthusiasts!

A test mule of the Tata Nano has been spotted testing with an open fuel filler area, which reportedly houses an electric power socket. This new spotting suggests that Tata Motors might be mulling to launch an Electric Vehicle (EV) variant of the Nano in the near future.

Another important thing worth noticing in the recent spy shots is the gap between the wheel arch and the tyres. The existing Nano AMT variant is currently the heaviest model in the Nano line-up. The car spotted testing has a suspension that has been compressed a lot more, even as compared to the Nano AMT. This might be a result of the heavy battery pack that this Nano EV test mule is lugging around.

Keeping in mind the narrow footprint and tall height of the Nano, Tata Motors would likely place the battery pack closer to the floor of the car in order to enhance its centre of gravity and weight distribution. Though detailed specifications of the electric powertrain on offer aren't out yet, the Nano Electric would likely retain the rear wheel drive layout.

If launched, the Tata Nano Electric Vehicle can benefit from the diesel ban that is currently applicable in Delhi NCR, and will likely spread to more cities in the near future. Moreover, the Centre Government's NEMMP 2020 (National Electric Mobility Mission Plan) will also help the Nano Electric to take advantage of government driven subsidies and customer benefits.

Source: Rushlane