Choosing a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, what the monthly maintenance will look like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, how good the company's service network is. Well, if you are looking for an electric SUV that ticks all these boxes and more, then the new Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65 is definitely worth your attention. As a leading automotive journalist, I am here to give you an in-depth look at this exciting new electric vehicle from Tata Motors, designed specifically for Indian roads and Indian buyers.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65 is expected to feature a powerful electric powertrain. While exact figures for the 'Adventure 65' variant (likely indicating a 65 kWh battery pack) are still being finalised, it will surely offer strong performance and a good driving range. We expect it to come with a single electric motor setup, primarily driving the front wheels (FWD), with a potential for a dual-motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option in higher variants. This setup will deliver instant torque, making city driving smooth and highway overtakes effortless.

Design Overview

Exterior Design

The Harrier EV retains the imposing and muscular stance of its diesel counterpart, but with distinct EV-specific design cues. Expect a refreshed, closed-off grille with a full-width LED light bar, redesigned bumpers, and unique aero-efficient alloy wheels. The overall look is modern, rugged, and unmistakably premium. Tata's 'Born Electric' design philosophy shines through, giving it a futuristic yet familiar appeal.

Interior Design

Step inside, and you are greeted by a plush and feature-packed cabin. The Harrier EV's interior will likely be a significant upgrade, focusing on comfort, space, and technology. Expect premium materials, a cleaner dashboard layout, and ambient lighting to enhance the driving experience. The spacious cabin ensures comfort for all five occupants, making long journeys enjoyable.

Key Features

• Large Infotainment Screen: A big, responsive touchscreen (likely 12.3-inch or larger) with the latest iRA connected car technology.
• Wireless Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Panoramic Sunroof: A large panoramic sunroof to make the cabin feel even more airy and luxurious.
• 360-degree Camera: For easy parking and navigating tight spots.
• Wireless Charging: Convenient charging for your smartphone on the go.
• Dual-zone Climate Control: For personalised comfort for front passengers.

Ventilated Seats: Offering a cool and comfortable ride, especially in India's hot climate.ADAS Features: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for enhanced safety.

Ground Clearance

The Tata Harrier EV is expected to offer a generous ground clearance, similar to its ICE counterpart, which is around 205 mm. This high ground clearance is perfect for tackling India's varied road conditions, including speed breakers and unpaved roads, without any worry.

Boot Space

The boot space of the Tata Harrier EV will be practical and spacious, likely around 425 litres. This provides ample room for luggage for weekend trips or daily errands, making it a very family-friendly EV SUV.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the Tata Harrier EV are expected to be similar to the current Harrier, ensuring its strong road presence and spacious interior. Expect dimensions close to:

• Length: Approximately 4598 mm
• Width: Approximately 1894 mm

Height: Approximately 1706 mmWheelbase: Approximately 2741 mm

Powertrain Options

The Harrier EV is anticipated to come with multiple powertrain options, focusing on different battery capacities and motor configurations. The 'Adventure 65' would likely feature a 65 kWh battery pack, offering an impressive range. Tata's advanced Ziptron technology will be at its core, providing efficient power delivery and fast charging capabilities. We can expect a certified range of over 500 km on a single charge for this variant, making range anxiety a thing of the past for most Indian users.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone of Tata Motors' philosophy, and the Harrier EV will be no exception. It is expected to come loaded with active and passive safety features, including:

• 7 Airbags (expected)
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control
• Hill Hold Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

NCAP Rating Table

Given Tata's stellar safety record with its current lineup, the Harrier EV is expected to achieve top safety ratings.

Rivals of Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65

The Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65 will face competition from several established and upcoming electric SUVs in the Indian market. Its key rivals include:

• MG ZS EV
• Mahindra XUV400
• Hyundai Kona Electric
• Upcoming Hyundai Creta EV

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Strong Road Presence: The Harrier EV looks imposing and modern.
• Excellent Safety: Expected 5-star NCAP rating with a host of safety features and ADAS.

Impressive Range: The 65 kWh battery promises a practical range for daily commutes and longer trips.Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with all the latest comfort and convenience features.Spacious and Comfortable: Ample room for five adults and their luggage.Tata's Service Network: Wide service network across India for peace of mind.Lower Running Costs: Electric vehicles are significantly cheaper to run compared to petrol/diesel cars.

Cons:

• Higher Upfront Cost: EVs generally have a higher purchase price than their ICE counterparts.

Charging Infrastructure: While improving, public charging infrastructure still needs to grow, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.Charging Time: Although fast charging is available, it still takes longer than refuelling a petrol/diesel car.Weight: Battery packs add significant weight, which can sometimes impact dynamic handling for spirited driving.

Conclusion

The Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65 is poised to be a game-changer in the Indian electric SUV segment. It combines Tata's trusted legacy of safety and rugged build quality with the futuristic appeal and efficiency of electric propulsion. With its bold design, feature-packed interior, impressive range, and commitment to safety, it makes a compelling case for itself. While the initial investment might be higher, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, coupled with a superior driving experience, make it a truly smart choice. If you are looking to embrace the electric future with a reliable, spacious, and stylish SUV, the Tata Harrier EV Adventure 65 should definitely be on your test drive list. It's not just a car; it's an adventure waiting to happen.