- Tata Motors is in the process of developing a new petrol powertrain, which will be used in its premium sports utility vehicles (SUVs), specifically the Harrier and Safari models.
- The Harrier and Safari models currently come equipped with a 2-litre diesel engine. Diesel engines have been the primary focus for these vehicles due to customer preference, especially for their torque performance.
- Around 80 percent of the SUV segment’s annual market of approximately 2 lakh units, where Harrier and Safari operate, has been skewed toward diesel. This market focus on diesel has driven Tata Motors to prioritize diesel powertrains for these models.
- Tata Motors is now working on a 1.5-litre Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine. The company recognizes the need to cater to the 20 percent of the market that prefers petrol-powered vehicles and wants to provide aggressive pricing options.
- Developing the new petrol engine is a work in progress and involves integrating the product with the engine. Tata Motors is also working on building the necessary capacities for this new petrol powertrain. While it’s still in progress, the company anticipates introducing the new engine in the future.