Tata's Electric Nano Could Debut As Jayem Neo On November 28

It hasn’t been long since Tata Motors won the auction to supply 9,500 electric vehicles (EVs) to the state-owned Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). With Tata Motors scheduled to deliver the first set of EVs to the organisation at the end of this month, we were beginning to wonder what EV could the homegrown automaker launch for the masses. That question seems to have been answered now if we take into account a recent report from Autocar India. The said report has stated that an all-electric Nano could be launched on November 28, 2017. However, it won’t feature the word Tata in its name. Instead, it will be known as Jayem Neo. What’s more, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to be present at the launch event set to take place in Hyderabad.

Now, some of you may be wondering why the all-electric Nano would be called the Jayem Neo. Well, earlier this year, Tata Motors and Coimbatore-based Jayem Automotives joined hands to co-develop sportier versions of Tata cars. For the all-electric Nano, however, Tata Motors will supply complete Nano body shells to Jayem without an engine and transmission. From their part, Jayem Automotives will add the electric powertrain, which is sourced from Electra EV, underneath the micro city car. The Neo is expected to be powered by  a 48-volt electric motor that generates 23PS of power. With the zero-emission electric motor and the batteries to power it, expect the Neo to be on the heavier side when compared to the bone stock Nano.

We tried contacting Jayem Automotives and its MD, J Anand, to get a more in-depth knowledge about the product and its launch. Unfortunately, we got no response. Apparently, the claimed ARAI range of the Neo on a single charge is about 200km, which will drop to around 140km with four passengers and with the AC turned on. However, this version of the Neo will only be sold as a fleet vehicle and not for personal use. The first batch of 400 Neos will be given to cab aggregator Ola Cabs at the launch event itself.

As mentioned above, the Neo will not wear a Tata badge. Instead, it will sport a ‘Powered By Electra EV’ inscription. The report also mentions that there are plans to launch a more powerful version of the Neo for personal use as well. We can’t wait to get our hands on one!

Also Read: Tata’s First EV Expected Next Year. What Will It Be?