Tata Motors proved its might in the commercial vehicle segment by displaying an array of models and concepts at the 11th Auto Expo. Apart from the Ultra, its new LCV platform (which was covered in detail in the February edition of Motorindia), the company showcased a number of interesting vehicles and variants of some of its existing models. The LPT 3723, Starbus Fuel Cell Concept, Paradiso-G7 – Multi Axle Coach, Magic IRIS CNG, Venture Ambulance, Ace Refresh and Super Ace – LHD were the real crowd-pullers at the show.
The Tata LPT 3723 is the first 5-axle rigid truck in the country, touted as the next big game changer in the Indian commercial vehicle industry. This truck can carry 4 tonnes more than the existing 31-tonne MAV segment. As a result, it is all set to radically change the economics of transportation in multiple segments by reducing the cost per tonne-km of transportation. The increased payload will make this vehicle ideal for movement of goods like cement and steel coils. This will translate into better returns for transporters and could potentially drive down the transportation costs of core goods such as steel and cement.
Powered by the Cummins 6BT 5.9L engine, with a maximum power of 154 kW at 2500 rpm, this 10X4 rigid truck has twin steerable front axles, a twin drive axle and a tag-lift axle at the rear. This is the only truck in the industry today to have this technology which helps transporters reduce tyre and fuel costs. This is also the first rigid truck in India with a 9-speed gearbox. With a GVW of 37 tonnes, this vehicle has an increased payload of 25 tonnes.
The Tata LPT 3723 comes with 10R20 – 16 PR (Rims 7.50X20.00) tyres and a minimum turning circle diameter of 21.9 m making it easily manoeuvrable as compared to tractor trailers.
The Tata Starbus Fuel Cell Concept is another path-breaking company initiative on alternate fuels. It has been developed with support from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research under the Technology Development & Demonstration Programme.
The Tata Starbus – Fuel Cell is a zero emission transport solution for commuting within the city. This environment-friendly bus is ideal for stop and go applications, and is built on rear module low entry platform, equipped with a ramp facility, pneumatic door operations, and climate control features.
The bus comes with hydraulic power steering, pneumatic suspension and full air dual circuit SCAM brakes with ABS, and radial tubeless tyres. The instrument cluster and cabin controls are of world class design. Quick and effortless acceleration make the driving experience less tiresome for the driver. The vehicle definitely promises a convenient, quiet and smooth ride.
The Tata Paradiso-G7 multi-axle coach is an internationally acclaimed bus body design concept from Marcopolo S.A., Brazil. The aerodynamic body design expertise of Marcopolo and technological capabilities of Tata Motors have been combined to develop the Tata Paradiso-G7. It is a 14-metre multi-axle coach with 21-tonne gross vehicle weight, packed with luxurious features, meant for long distance inter-city travel.
Built on LPO 2138 rear engine multi axle platform with a 370 hp and 1550 Nm torque Cummins ISLe engine, the Tata Paradiso is ideal for long distance travel. It has a ZF 6-speed gearbox with in-built intarder, electronically controlled air suspension (ECAS), large clutch diameter of 430 mm and a large fuel tank capacity of 500L, which can be further extended to 600L (optional). Tata Paradiso-G7 has a maximum speed of 120 kmph, good gradability of 34 per cent, best-in-class manoeuvrability and superior fuel efficiency. It comes with world class axles with pneumatic disc brakes and electronic braking system (EBS).
The Tata Magic IRIS CNG is a stylish, environment-friendly and comfortable public transport vehicle. It comes equipped with a powerful 611 cc, water-cooled CNG engine generating power of 12.8 hp and 37 Nm torque and mated with a technically advanced transmission system comprising 5 speed gear box. Tata Magic IRIS CNG delivers superior performance with higher power, pick-up, mileage and gradeability. The strong and reliable aggregates ensure lower maintenance costs and longer life in all demanding city driving conditions.
This assures the operator of faster travel, more trips and higher earnings. Its lower NVH and adherence to stringent BS IV norms make it a comfortable last mile public transport vehicle and an environmentally ideal choice for Indian cities.
The Tata Venture Ambulance is powered by a 1.4 litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 70 hp, with best-in-class fuel efficiency. It is available in both AC and Non-AC versions. With a minimum turning radius of 4.5 metre, the vehicle offers better manoeuvrability and zips through in emergency conditions. The monocoque body keeps the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels low. Front independent suspension, anti-roll bars with hydraulic shock absorbers and radial tyres together ensure a bump-free ride for maximum care, comfort and safety of the patient.
The vehicle comes with features like HVAC, 6-foot long collapsible stretcher, 12 V plug for ECG/medical equipment connection, anti-skid flooring, tubular siren, back cabin tube light, provision for oxygen cylinder, first aid box and washable seats & stretcher. The Tata Venture Ambulance will be available across Tata Motors dealerships in the first quarter of FY 12-13.
Launched in 2005, the Tata Ace was the first commercial vehicle brand to sell five lakh units and has till date sold over seven lakh units. It is the largest selling commercial vehicle brand in the country today.
The Tata Ace is now being introduced in its new avatar which is stylish and offers many comfort features. The Tata Ace Refresh has new stylish headlamps, a new wide grill, body coloured bumpers, ergonomically designed steering, comfortable fabric seats, new aesthetic dashboard and wide ORVMs. To further increase the comfort for the driver, there is a music system and mobile charging point. The Tata Ace Refresh will be available in the HT, EX and CNG variants.
The Tata Super Ace – Euro V LHD (Left Hand Drive) version with enhanced safety features, suited to the developed markets, was also on display. A 1.4L DICOR (Direct Injection Common Rail) engine, coupled with a 5-speed fully synchromesh gearbox is used to power & propel this global variant of the Tata Super Ace. It delivers a peak power of 70 HP @ 4000 rpm and a peak flat torque of 140 NM @ 1400-2750 rpm. With a full 1 tonne loading capacity, the Tata Super Ace gives its customers the required tool to keep pace with their growing business and delivery needs.
Tata Super Ace comes with safety features such as ABS and airbags to provide maximum safety to the driver and co-passenger. It also meets very stringent crash norms. From hot deserts of Thar to the cold deserts of Gobi & Siberia, the vehicle will come up trumps anywhere with its operating temperature range of -40 to +55 degree C. With best-in-class fuel efficiency, the Tata Super Ace offers better savings and better earnings making it the ideal choice for any business.