Posted on 03/22/2009 11:05:36 AM PDT by JoeProBono
Tata Motors said it will launch its ultra-cheap Nano car in Mumbai on Monday — a vehicle meant to herald a revolution by making it possible for the world's poor to purchase their first car. But few predict the snub-nosed Nano will be able to turn around the company, which has been beset by flagging sales and high debt, anytime soon. The Nano, which is priced starting at about 100,000 rupees ($2,050), is a stripped-down car for stripped-down times: It is 10.2 feet (3.1 meters) long, has one windshield wiper, a 623cc rear engine, and a diminutive trunk, according to the company's Web site. It does not have air bags or antilock brakes — neither of which is required in India — and if you want air conditioning, a radio, or power steering, you'll have to pay extra.
(Excerpt) Read more at sfgate.com ...
It has s “623cc rear engine” meaning probably a 2 stroke engine. Meaning probably not allowed in this US
Thats why we can't produce anything inexpensive anymore.
no airbags, no modified frame with crumble zones, no set of $2,000 bumpers.
No cats. No lots of things.
2 strokes are the most efficient engine produced, but the EPA says no.
But my yama is a 4 stroke. - No 2 strokes allowed here.
I’ve seen tatas bigger than that Tata.
I used to tease my sister for having “nano tatas”.
Actually not bad styling.
I wouldn’t want to be in one during a high speed crash, though.
Back in the early 70s I had one of the first Fuji Heavy Industries cars imported to the US, which later became Subaru.
Dang thing was about this size and had a 2 cylinder 2-stroke. Got 65 to 75 mpg routinely.
Of course, I occasionally ran across a hill the car just wouldn’t climb.
Now these are nano tatas
But the package is "TATUM!"
About right for a skateboard.
When they allow THIS here, you’ll know Global Warming is FOR REAL —and it will never be imported.
Which tells you something.
I hope their quality control has improved. I drove a TATA car in India for a few month and when it would rain I’d get soaking wet from the leaks around the doors.
It’s a joke here in the US but for the millions of poor people overseas, it’s a huge step up. I hope they love and enjoy their new Tatas!
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