At 2012 Auto Expo, Tata Motors caught the attention of many auto enthusiasts as it showcased a bevy of new vehicles. The company demonstrated its skills in harnessing the alternate fuel needs as it unveiled the Indigo Manza diesel-electric hybrid concept. Since then, a lot of buzz was generated regarding the availability of a Tata model with hybrid technology. However, till now, the auto maker has not provided any substantial information on the same. Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept was powered by a combination of Hybrid 1.05-litre DiCOR engine and an electric motor, which together had a potential to churn out an impressive output with brilliant fuel economy.
The vehicle was primarily designed to deliver excellent performance with respect to giving low emissions. Tata Motors claimed that this engine will give 90gm/km CO2 emissions, owing to high speed cranking, regenerative braking, auto start/stop, limited range pure electric operations. While for exteriors, the car featured a completely revamped front and rear portion that scored high in terms of modernity. At the front, this hybrid model had bi-xenon and LED headlamps that provide it a bold new look as compared to the conventional models of the company. For giving a modern yet dynamic look to the rear end of Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept, Tata Motors used LED tail lights. It had 17-inch wheels with 205/45 R17 tyres that were optimised for attaining a better friction. What stands out in Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept was the touch operated door locks that clearly demonstrated the potential of Tata Motors.
Besides the regenerative braking, the Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept had high capacity Lithium Ion battery, alongside the roof mounted solar panel so as to charge it from the sunlight. As showcased, the car had all the security features that include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), airbags and a special hydrophobic nano-coating on the windscreen so as to make driving in inclement weather safe and easy. At interiors, Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept had fresh new centre console and matching door trims. The 6-way powered leather seats gave much needed comfort and convenience to passengers sitting at the front row of the car. In the long list of features, the key highlights were electric parking brake, automatic transmission, electric-assist power steering and an infotainment system with 7-inch touch screen. In this audio visual system, an intuitive controller was provided through which adjustments could be made for navigation. Also to mention, the provision of steering mounted audio controls was given in the Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept.
To sum up on Tata Indigo Manza Hybrid Concept, it must be said that this car happens to be a true technological leap that the company had taken from manufacturing the regular passenger cars. The model was provided with a set of futuristic features that were aimed to provide utmost comfort for its occupants. At the same time, the model had a low impact on the environment owing to its refined emission levels. On the availability of hybrid cars in India, Tata Motors Chairman, Cyrus Mistry was recently quoted as saying, "The company is working on a slew of new products, with a plan running up to 2020; this includes appropriate focus on alternate fuels, hybrids and electric vehicles." So as far as the launch of such advanced models from Tata Motors is concerned, industry experts believe that Indian buyers might have to wait a few couple of years.
