Tata seems to be on a roll for 2014. The Indian car-maker is making efforts in every way possible to gain a strong footing in the country. The company seems to be serious when its said shall usher in couple of new cars in the Indian market. Post launch of the Nano Twist in the Indian market, sources have now caught the diesel variant of Nano being tested on the Indian streets. The innovative EZDrive technology in the Maruti Suzuki Celerio hatchback set the sales charts on fire with about 35000 units being sold in just about two months post launch it launch in the country. News has now been doing rounds that Nano may be launched in diesel version soon.
The spied Nano Diesel is expected to be powered by 800cc engine that generates about 40 Ps of power and 90 Nm of Torque. The hatchback is expected to receive a turbocharger unit from Garrett. Sources have also anticipated that the Nano diesel may deliver impressive mileage of about 35 kmpl. The Indian car-maker has not yet disclosed its plans to launch a diesel variant, the specification is also not known for now. The Nano diesel variant is anticipated to be launched sometime later this year or early next year with a price tag of Rs 50,000 - 70,000 extra than the existing price tag for the petrol variant.
On the exterior front the Nano diesel sports bumpers that were seen on the Tata Nano Twist Active concept from the Auto Expo. Air dams on the front feature honeycomb style mesh that gives a smart appeal. In earlier days the car was immersed in controversies doubting its quality and reliability. Over time all the stories have been put to rest by the Indian automaker. The most recent of the lot is the Tata Nano Twist that has been specifically designed for a metropolitan city.
As per a latest update the Celerio hatchback may receive a 800cc diesel engine. Currently the engine is at a development stage and the popular hatchback Celerio shall be the first one to receive it. When successful, it may find its way into the Eeco van as well. With the launch of the cars in a diesel variant, the Indian manufacturer aims at gaining an entry in commercial vehicle segment. The current version of Celerio in petrol claims to be highly fuel efficient and delivers an impressive 23.1 kmpl. The Auto Gear Shift system has no manual clutch and thus there are only two pedals. It is based on an electronic control unit which drives the precision hydraulic actuator to control the clutch engagement and the gear shifting. It also ensures that the gear and clutch operations happen at optimal timings. Some of the factors that are responsible for higher efficiency is the optimized compression ratio, reduced frictional losses, low viscosity engine oil, and re-designed valves and springs.
The interiors in the Maruti Suzuki Celerio is said to be intelligently designed to maximize space and comfort. The rear seats get 60:40 split option known as 'XpanDesign' for more luggage space. The cabin space is neat and has a premium feel too it. Moreover, the occupants get ample headroom, legroom and shoulder-room for a comfortable travel. During launch, Kenichi Ayukawa, MD and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “Given the congestion on Indian roads, the demand for auto mode is no brainer. Presently, cars with automatic transmission are less than 5 percent. Celerio will cater to a growing demand for vehicles with automatic gear shift at an affordable price.”
