Tata Tiago EV XT MR

As an automotive journalist, I see many questions from car buyers in India. They want a car that balances budget, safety, low running costs, modern features, and good service. In the growing electric vehicle (EV) market, the new Tata Tiago EV XT MR stands out. This affordable electric car from Tata Motors aims to redefine daily commutes. Let us explore what makes the Tiago EV XT MR a strong choice for Indian families embracing sustainable transport.

Engine Specifications

The Tata Tiago EV XT MR is powered by a zippy electric motor designed for urban commutes. It offers a smooth and silent driving experience, perfect for navigating city traffic. Here are the key specs:

• Motor Type: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)
• Maximum Power: 61 PS (45 kW)
• Peak Torque: 110 Nm

Design Overview

Exterior Design

The Tata Tiago EV XT MR retains the familiar, appealing design of the standard Tiago but adds subtle EV-specific touches. It boasts a modern and youthful appearance. You will notice:

• A closed-off front grille with blue accents, highlighting its electric nature.
• Projector headlamps (in higher variants).
• Stylish alloy wheels or wheel covers (variant dependent).
• Compact dimensions that make it agile in city traffic and easy to park.

Interior Design

Step inside the Tiago EV XT MR, and you are greeted by a well-thought-out cabin that feels spacious for its size. The interior prioritizes comfort and practicality:

• Dual-tone interior theme for a premium feel.
• Blue accents on the dashboard and upholstery to match the exterior EV theme.
• Good quality materials for its segment.
• Ergonomically placed controls for ease of access.

Key Features

Despite being a budget-friendly electric car, the Tiago EV XT MR packs a decent set of features for everyday convenience and connectivity:

• Infotainment System: A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system by Harman, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Connectivity: Tata ZConnect connected car technology with 45+ features, offering remote commands, vehicle diagnostics, and safety alerts.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control for a comfortable cabin environment.
• Instrument Cluster: Digital instrument cluster displaying crucial EV-specific information like battery charge, range, and drive modes.
• Other Features: Multi-functional steering wheel, push-button start/stop, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and a charging port smartly integrated into the front fender.
• Please note: Features like a sunroof, 360-degree camera, or wireless charging are typically found in higher-end models and are not present in the XT MR variant, keeping it affordable for the budget electric car buyer.

What is the Ground Clearance of Tata Tiago EV XT MR?

The ground clearance of the Tata Tiago EV XT MR is 163 mm (unladen). This is quite adequate for Indian road conditions, allowing it to easily clear most speed breakers and uneven patches without scraping the underbody.

What is the Boot Space of Tata Tiago EV XT MR?

The Tata Tiago EV XT MR offers a boot space of 240 litres. While not massive, it is practical enough for daily grocery runs, a couple of suitcases for a weekend trip, or school bags, making it a viable option for small families.

What are the Dimensions of Tata Tiago EV XT MR?

Understanding the dimensions helps in gauging its city maneuverability and parking ease:

• Length: 3769 mm
• Width: 1677 mm
• Height: 1536 mm
• Wheelbase: 2400 mm

Powertrain Options

The Tata Tiago EV XT MR comes with the Medium Range (MR) powertrain option. This setup includes:

• Battery Pack: A 19.2 kWh Lithium-ion battery.
• ARAI Certified Range: 250 km on a single charge. This range is ideal for daily commutes within the city and occasional short trips.
• Charging: It comes with a 3.3 kW AC home charger. It also supports DC fast charging, allowing you to top up from 10% to 80% in about 58 minutes at a 50kW DC fast charger, making long journeys more feasible.

Safety Features

Tata Motors has always prioritized safety, and the Tiago EV XT MR is no exception. It comes equipped with a host of safety features to protect you and your loved ones:

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Cornering Stability Control (CSC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Reverse Parking Camera (higher variants)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

NCAP Rating Table

While the Tata Tiago EV has not been independently crash-tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP specifically as an EV yet, the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Tata Tiago, built on the same robust ALFA-ARC platform, has achieved an impressive safety rating. The EV variant benefits from this strong foundation.

Rating Body	Rating (ICE Tiago)	Notes
Global NCAP	4 Stars (Adult Occupant)	The Tiago EV is built on the same highly-rated platform, offering robust structural integrity.
Bharat NCAP	Not yet tested (for EV)	Expected to perform well given Tata's commitment to safety and the ICE Tiago's strong performance.

Rivals of Tata Tiago EV XT MR

In the burgeoning Indian EV market, the Tata Tiago EV XT MR faces competition from a few key players, primarily those focusing on the affordable segment:

• MG Comet EV: A smaller, more city-centric micro-EV.
• Citroen eC3: Offers a more SUV-like stance, but at a slightly higher price point.

The Tiago EV XT MR often holds an edge due to its conventional hatchback design, established brand trust of Tata Motors, and a wide service network.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let us weigh the advantages and disadvantages of choosing the Tata Tiago EV XT MR:

Pros:

• Affordable Electric Car: One of the most budget-friendly EVs in India, making electric mobility accessible to many.
• Low Running Costs: Significantly cheaper to run compared to petrol cars, leading to substantial monthly savings on fuel.
• Environmentally Friendly: Zero tailpipe emissions contribute to cleaner air.
• Smooth and Silent Drive: The electric powertrain offers a refined and quiet driving experience.
• Compact Size: Excellent for city driving and easy parking.
• Established Service Network: Backed by Tata Motors' extensive service network across India.
• Safety: Benefits from Tata's commitment to safety, sharing the platform with a 4-star Global NCAP rated car.

Cons:

• Range Anxiety (for some): The 250 km ARAI range might be a concern for those with frequent long-distance travel plans, although it is perfectly adequate for city use.
• Charging Infrastructure: While improving, the public charging infrastructure is still developing, which can be a hurdle for inter-city travel.
• Boot Space: 240 litres might be limiting for larger families or extensive luggage.
• Feature Set: XT MR variant misses out on some premium features like a rear-view camera, wireless charging, or a sunroof, which are present in higher variants or rivals.
• Performance on Highways: While capable, its primary strength lies in city driving rather than sustained high-speed highway cruising.

Conclusion

The Tata Tiago EV XT MR is a highly compelling package for anyone looking to enter the world of electric vehicles on a budget. It ticks many boxes: affordability, decent safety, very low running costs, essential modern features, and Tata's wide service network. While its range and features might have limitations for very long journeys or luxury, its strengths as a practical, eco-friendly, and economical city commuter outweigh the drawbacks. If you need a reliable, low-maintenance, and trustworthy electric hatchback for daily use, the Tata Tiago EV XT MR is a smart choice. Drive green, drive smart, with the Tata Tiago EV XT MR.