Tata returns to CV sector with mini-truck rIZTE'6anter
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TATA. THE OWNER of Jaguar/Land Rover, is returning to the CV sector with an electric mini-truck.
Tata's previous UK presence ended with the collapse of its distributor Phoenix, of MG-Rover fame. While the main thrust of the return is with the indica Vista passenger car, it is also launching the first of a new line of CVs: the Ace EV. Both were developed at Tata's European technical centre in Coventry and will be assembled in the Midlands. The centre plays a significant role in R&D, especially electric and hybrid, for much bigger names, In India, Tata produces a full range of trucks and buses. from the tiny Ace right up to the modern Prima "world truck-.
In the UK.Irta is starting small: the Ace EV has a 25mph top speed and 500kg payload, and is designed primarily for use in town centres, parks and university campuses. Unlike somc of its similarly compact rivals, it meets the same NI-type approval as larger commercials. It will come as a chassis cab, dropside or Tipmasterequipped tipper or with a box body that weighs just 100kg. Its on-board trickle charger runs from a standard 13A socket through an RCD-equipped cable that complies with Factories Act requirements, The Ace F,V is the first electric LCV to arrive, hut an FFH (faster, further, heavier) model in the 3,500kg (NW class is scheduled for two years' time. A decision on whether to bring other models, including Tata's latest conventionally powered Xenon pickup to the UK has still to be made.
Tata will initially be selling the Ace EV directly. and can be contacted at aceevenquiries@tatamotors.com.