Tata Motors has unveiled another glimpse of the upcoming Tata Sierra EV and this time it is hinting at one of the most exciting features of the SUV. The new teaser also reveals that Tata’s QWD (Quad Wheel Drive) system is included and confirms that the vehicle is attempting to conquer some of the dunes in the desert, suggesting excellent all-terrain performance. Through this teaser, the Sierra EV promises to be one of the most high-tech and adventurous electric SUVs from Tata Motors and is supposed to hit the roads on June 30.
The new teaser reveals the Sierra-EV with a big QWD badge proudly displayed as it bounces across the loose sand of the desert. Tata’s description of QWD is an all-wheel-drive system with two motors, one for the front axle and another for the rear. It is expected that the set-up will provide better traction, stability and performance in challenging terrain compared to traditional 2WD vehicles.
What makes this teaser particularly significant is the choice of terrain. The desert is used by automakers to prove the quality of their four-wheel-drive systems and is one of the toughest types of terrain for any vehicle. The performance shown by the Sierra EV on loose terrain and dunes makes it look like Tata Motors is demonstrating the all-wheel-drive electric motorisation. The Sierra EV shows a clear preference for being an adventure-oriented vehicle in the form of an SUV, not just another city-running SUV.
The Sierra EV is likely to be based on Tata’s advanced Acti.ev+ architecture, which forms the backbone of the Harrier EV. It is tailored for Next-Generation Electric Vehicles and versatile for a variety of battery packs, sophisticated software and dual-motor-setup transmissions. The all-wheel-drive option for the Sierra EV will probably feature a motor for every axle and distribute the torque intelligently based on the conditions.
As of now, Tata Motors has not disclosed any official details regarding the batteries, but according to the industry sources, the Sierra EV might come in a 65 kWh to 75 kWh battery setup. One of these new options is part of the larger battery which is likely to come as part of the QWD version and will offer a driving range of more than 500 km on a single charge. The Sierra EV will also be known for its ability to quickly charge and use vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, making it ideal for daily driving and long trips.
The only difference between the Sierra EV and other electric vehicles is its appearance. The production model will share several styling features from the iconic Sierra, such as the wrap-around rear-quarter glass and the tall appearance of the SUV styling. The teaser further glimpses some cutting-edge design elements, including integrated LED lights, flush door handles, aerodynamic alloy wheels and a prominent front fascia that follows Tata’s EV design philosophy.
Tata is set to provide a ‘luxury and rich’ cabin experience. A triple-screen dashboard setup (includes infotainment system & instrument cluster), panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, connected car technology and over-the-air software updates are some of the capabilities the SUV may offer. Another crucial factor for the cabin will be space and comfort as well, which will help make the Sierra EV a family-friendly choice.
Another big highlight is expected to be safety. It is reported that the electric version of the Sierra will pack in the level 2 ADAS controls, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking and the 360° camera system. Various airbags, electronic stability control and advanced traction management systems will likely also be available.
The pricing of the Tata Sierra is likely to be between ₹20 lakh and ₹25 lakh (ex-showroom), on account of which it will be classified under the premium EV SUV segment. It will go head-to-head on launch with other electric cars like the Mahindra BE 6, the Maruti Suzuki eVitara, the Hyundai Creta Electric and the MG ZS EV.
The new tease does not only highlight QWD technology but also demonstrates how impressive the performance is when asked to navigate the desert. Through this demonstration, Tata Motors has indicated that the Sierra EV is destined to be a feature-heavy, capable, and adventure-ready EV-SUV. Whether the end result meets these promises remains to be seen, but the Sierra EV seems to be one of the most interesting EV launches this year, at least in India.
