Tata Motors sparked off the birth of a new era in the LCV and ICV space with the launch of Tata Ultra 714 and 1017 LCV and ICV at Auto Expo. The Ultra platform combines three key elements redesigned for the future ñ futuristic styling, next-generation performance and redefined comfort and safety that will change the dynamics of transport business.
The Ultra range is powered by an all-new advanced DICOR 3 & 5 litre, 16-valve engine with higher aggregate life, longer service intervals and low NVH levels. It delivers an efficient and smooth ride. Radial tyres, parabolic leaf springs and tuned shock absorbers add to the comfort of the driver and ensure safe transit of goods. High-strength Domex 650 steel-rolled chassis frame with high tensile strength and straight long member construction gives flexibility of multiple wheel base at multiple payload points.
The all-new elegant sleek look, walk-through steel cabin with a dash-mounted cable shift gear, hydraulic cabin tilt mechanism ensures the driver feels at home. Ergonomically designed, mechanically suspended seats with integral head rest, tiltable, telescopic and collapsible power steering gives him the best of driving experience and stress-free long rides.
The Tata Ultra sports a new generation instrument cluster which displays live and trip fuel mileage, and offers clutch and brake wear indicators, seat and door ajar warnings, water in fuel indicator, neutral position, economy assistance, single key operation and a host of other delighters. Disc brakes for the first time in this category ensure effective braking at high speeds and loads. New stylized clear lens head lamps and LED tail lamps make the vehicle ideal for all-weather night driving.
The company feels that the vehicle, made out of a new assembly line in Pune, would be the best in its segment in India. There are a number of reasons for the company to express its confidence in the Ultra, including superior aggregate life, which it believes would be more by at least 50%, service intervals increased by 50%, longer warranty, better mileage and maintenance-free parts. The Ultra would cost more than the existing range. However it would be very competitively priced in the market.
The Ultra 714 is powered by a DICOR 3L engine delivering 138 hp and a torque of 360 Nm. It is fitted with the G400, a 6-speed gearbox. The truck comes loaded with features like a roof hatch, 12V utility socket, music system, digital clock, cab tilt lock indicator, low fuel level indicator lamp, brake lining wear indicator, air filter service electrical indicator, water in fuel indicator, door ajar lamp and leather finish dashboard.
The Ultra 1017 comes with a DICOR 5L engine, delivers 168 HP and a torque of 590 Nm. It has a 6-speed gearbox, the G550. The truck offers HVAC, cruise control, ABS, suspended driver seat, 12V utility socket, music system, power window, electrical mirror, centralised locking, Tachograph Telematics (GPS), digital clock, cab tilt lock indicator, low fuel level indicator lamp, brake lining wear indicator, door ajar indicator, air filter service electrical Indicator, water in fuel indicator, alloy wheels, low washer fluid indicator and leather finish dashboard.
Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Head – Sales and Marketing, Small, Light and Intermediate Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors, said that the vehicle would be commercially available in the first quarter of next fiscal year (2012-13). The Ultra range will comprise a series of variants from 5 to 14 tonnes GVW. The BS IV vehicle would replace the companyís entire existing range over a period of next two to three years and is tipped to set a new standard in the coming years.
The Ultra range offers future-ready LCV & ICV trucks, making them business assets that will assuredly give the customers a competitive edge. With the new platform, Tata Motors aims to move on the top-line of the LCV segment similar to its efforts with the Prima in the HCV division.