The Ace HT+ is a cutting-edge modern-day vehicle that combines the greatest features of a little truck and a pickup truck, writes Rajesh Rajgor as he gets a chance to take a closer look at the vehicle and take it for a spin
In order to further enhance its legendary brand in the Indian market for small commercial vehicles, Tata Motors this year introduced a new ACE model under the name HT+. The golden-coloured Tata ACE HT+ is intended to offer higher profits at the expense of a mini truck with more power for faster trips, more torque for higher pickup for a quicker turnaround, more payload, larger tyres and a longer load body for better load capacity along with enhanced style and comfort for a fatigue-free driving experience.
My initial thoughts of the well-known ACE (the small elephant, as is popularly known) in its new HT+ incarnation were excellent. Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that the finer aesthetics have also been handled with the utmost precision. First off, a sleek headlight and turn indication are merged. Between the two front grills that allow air to enter the BS VI engine is the iconic Tata emblem. The 13-inch tyres provide a distinctive height and optimum traction on the ground.
The Interiors
Let me first describe the excellent cabin before I discuss the engine and other component parameters that make the Tata ACE HT+ a successful pickup truck. The driver’s comfort level and preparation for the difficult work trip are determined by his in-cabin experience. Swish dashboard design, easy-to-use pendant-style accelerator, stop and clutch pedals, comfy headrest-equipped seats, an ergonomic shifting lever and knob, and an instrument panel with a clear view are just a few of the cabin’s characteristics.
The front, rear and tilt of the seats are all adjustable. They also have a head rest that can be adjusted. You will immediately notice the large windscreen with two wipers while resting your hands on the steering wheel. The light and inside rear view mirror (IRVM) is positioned in the centre. The instrument cluster in the centre of the dashboard displays readings as soon as the ignition is turned on, including the engine temperature, DEF level, fuel gauge and a speedometer in orange colour. A lock box to store crucial documents about transportation is located on the left. If one wanted to install a music system, there are speakers in both corners.
In order to pour brake fluid, there is also a cover that can be opened. The sleek, functional and attractive five-speed manual gearbox is on the left. There is a USB connector for charging a mobile device in front of it, as well as a light switch, a regeneration plug and room for additional buttons that can be fixed nearby. A sun visor is also provided for the driver’s comfort. Grab handles and window glass rollers are located on each side of the door (up and down lever). Between the two seats, a full glass window is provided so that the driver may keep an eye on the cargo positioned behind.
The Cargo Section
The tyres have raised the vehicle to a nice height, as already indicated. The Tata ACE HT+ boasts a respectable 160 mm of road clearance. Additionally, the vehicle has a strong and firm edge to navigate in poor road conditions thanks to the parabolic leaf spring suspension up front and the semi-elliptical leaf spring in the rear. A centrally mounted spare tyre keeps the vehicle from having to spend a lot of time idle on the road in the event of a tyre blowout and may even improve driving stability. The cargo body is 8.2 feet long and 4.9 feet wide and can carry a payload of 900 kg.
Reverse parking sensors and reflective elements are also located on the load body’s back. Additionally, parking and tail lamps are available, which increase the safety of pedestrians and other motorists in addition to offering a safe choice for reversing. The AdBlue tank, which is about 10.5 litres in size and is situated next to the 30-litre diesel tank on the left side of the Tata ACE HT+, is another noticeable feature. Customers can choose cabins with half-bodies or full-bodies depending on their preferences.
The vehicle is made to meet the needs of fleet managers and independent contractors engaged in the distribution of fruits and vegetables, e-commerce, building materials and cement, courier services, gas cylinder transportation, fast moving consumer goods, agricultural produce, groceries, industrial goods, waste management, market load, tent house and mineral water transportation. The Tata ACE HT+ has a higher power of 26 kW (35 HP) for better speed and a higher pickup of 85 Nm for faster turnaround, more trips and more income at a top speed of 80 km per hour. Additionally, the gradeability is 36%, making it simple to navigate hilly terrains and flyovers.
Tata ACE, India’s first mini truck, has made history since its 2005 premiere. The vehicle, in a league of its own, transformed cargo transportation while promoting new businesses and creating jobs in India. With additional variations being introduced throughout time, it remains the top pick for more than 23 lakh new users and business owners for almost 17 years. In a nutshell, the new improved Tata ACE HT+ is value for money and combines the greatest features of a little truck and a pickup truck in one and is a welcome addition to the ever-growing Tata ACE family.