Jan 17, 2008 08:25 PM
3106 Views
(Updated Jan 17, 2008 08:29 PM)
May I say that since this car is not yet on the road, none of us could write a real review so far. I would, therefore call mine a 'preview'.
Guys, I was there when Tata Nano was launched during AutoExpo 2008 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
I was not the lucky one to be personally invited by Mr. Tata. I was one of the 'junta' who got the first looks after all the VVVVVIPs had left. I am thankful to god that I survived the mad rush of thousands of people pushing, kicking and doing whatever they could to have the first glimpse of the Mr. Ratan Tata's dream come true.
My first attempt to see the car was not successful. I was almost swimming amongst the thousands of people and when I reached near the car, I could only see the top and some part of the door.
My second attempt was a success, I made it around lunch time :-)(yes, I am smart) My first impression was "oh it looks just like Maruti Zen Estillo from side, and looks like Daewoo Matiz from the front". and it is small.
They displayed three cars - red, yellow and white. Red looked nice.The car has a rear engine of about 623CC, giving top speed of 72kmph and mileage of about 20km/lit.The front boot is for battery, spare tyre and probably one suitcase as luggage. The interiors looked average. Can seat only 4 people, no aircon, no stereo no fancy stuff. JUST BASIC. - What else shall one expect in Rs. 1Lac?
The tyres are small like autorickshaw. They may not take all the bumps of Mumbai. I would say, it looked risky for driving in monsoon, the water clogging can make it float in no time and may also enter the engine.
The price tag of Rs.1 Lac is excluding taxes. The on-road price would touch Rs.1.20-1.30 lacs.
I am wondering if Tata can offer this car to replace all the autorickshaws. it will offer little more comfort and safety that autos. Otherwise, cities like Mumbai, Banglore, Chennai would be flooded with these nanos and create a huge chaos and pollution.
