Jalopnik: Tata

Chrysler In Talks To Sell Jeeps In India, Fiats In North America

Andrew Stoy — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 10:40:00 EDT

According to Automotive News, Cerberus is engaged in behind-the-scenes talks with both Tata Motors and Fiat regarding sales and manufacturing linkups. Chrysler wants to use Tata to gain a foothold for its Jeep Wrangler in Indian and Asian markets. More intriguingly, the company is reportedly talking to Fiat about the Italian automaker leasing excess Chrysler production capacity in the U.S. and "cooperating in retail distribution in the U.S. market." Will this mark the return of Fiat to our shores, via Chrysler?

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: With America's newfound thirst for small cars, combined with its memories of the godawful Fiats foisted upon its fair citizens in the 1970s and '80s nearly forgotten, the time may be ripe for a Fiat return. If Chrysler can make a few bucks by utilizing idled plants, and C-J-D dealerships can add a new, albeit low-volume, brand to their showrooms to replace the loss of lease business, this could be a win-win situation. Unless you encounter an Audi Q7 while driving your new Fiat 500 home, anyway. [Automotive News, (Sub. Req.)]

Tata Considers Relaunching Daimler Luxury Brand

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Tata may attempt to extend its luxury business by resurrecting the Daimler luxury brand, according to reports from an investor meeting. Tata secured the rights to the Daimler name as part of the Jaguar-Land Rover purchase, though currently the only car with that name is the range-topping Jaguar Daimler Super 8. As we reported, Tata assumed numerous brands in the deal, including the rights to produce cars under the name Daimler (DaimlerAG, formerly DaimlerChrysler, was given permission to use the name for their corporation from Ford before the Tata sale). These super-luxury cars from Tata could reach for a level currently occupied by other manufacturers.

There's not much of a chance — or need — to move Jaguar, as a brand, into the stratospheric luxury level, but it wouldn't be hard for the company to follow the model of Mercedes-Maybach, VW-Bentley and BMW-Rolls Royce. In fact, Daimler already enjoys positive name recognition in Europe for their earlier cars. [Times Online]

Tata Nano To Get Two-Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Power, Bajillion Miles Per Gallon

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EDT

The Economic Times of India is reporting Tata has teamed up with German engineering firm FEV (who's also developing the hybrid system on the Mahindra Scorpio) to bring an 800 cc, turbocharged, two-cylinder diesel to the engine bay of the Tata Nano. Already blessed with a $2500 price tag and rumored to have a compressed air engine on the way, the story of the Nano just keeps getting more and more interesting.

News of a diesel option isn't really that earth shattering, as Ratan Tata, the man himself, has been quoted saying, "By and large we've always been a diesel company, so we will have a diesel version that will follow." This new diesel variant would be the smallest and most fuel-efficient offering in the Indian marketplace. Not only that, but the 0.8-liter mill dwarfs the standard 623 cc gas engine, and would probably make the Nano D the standout performance leader in the range — though more than likely the priciest offering as well. Is there something wrong with us if we really, really want three Nanos with different powerplants so we can race down the main drag, Shriner-style? [Economic Time]

Tata Nano To Offer Compressed Air Engine Optional, Make Electric Cars Look Silly

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Buried in a New York Times article on "Low-Carbon Chic" (vomit) comes confirmation the Tata Nano, the $2500 (or maybe a bit more) mini-car will offer a MDI compressed air engine as an option. Tata has been backing MDI for a while now, and off-the-cuff we mused at the idea of the compressed air engine option in a Nano months ago. Given the novelty of the engine, it was more a dismissal than speculation. Well, we guess it turns out we were right. Remember after the Tata Nano was unveiled, how all the enviro-dweebs whined incessantly about how the huge swath of new little cars on India's streets would contribute bajillions of tons of carbon dioxide to the environment? Well, maybe they'll be eating some crow because $3 worth of electricity will probably fill a tank for a 125 mile trip.

This news comes as something of a game changer for the Nano. Before the car offered bare bones transportation at a cheap price. Certainly a strong selling point, but with skyrocketing fuel prices, the gas has become as much a barrier to market entry as the price of the car. With the incredibly cheap fueling cost on compressed air the car becomes even more accessible to an even wider audience.

Forget all that for a moment though. This kind of makes us wonder what the point is of billions of dollars being invested in lithium-ion batteries, hybridization, low rolling resistance tires, aerodynamics, hydrogen fuel cells and all that other malarkey. The issue with all of the highly touted alternative fuels is capacity or distribution. Hydrogen fuel is expensive to make, has no distribution network and it would be expensive to implement one. Electricity generally comes from coal-fired power plants at the moment (in the US), charging stations don't exactly litter the landscape, and even it they did, it takes forever to charge the batteries.

However, the air compressor engine can rely on almost any power source. All it has to do is be converted by way of air compressor. You could use a gasoline compressor, windmill, a water wheel, electric compressor, hell, you could pedal your way to a full tank if you rigged up a proper system. And cheap. Air compressors have been around for a couple hundred years now. We kind of have them figured out. And they work fast, a fill up would probably take as long as it does now. Huh, remind us again why we're supposed to be excited about alternative fuels? [NYTimes]

Blue Steel: $2500 Tata Nano May Become Slightly More Pricey

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Ratan Tata wowed the world when he revealed his company's Tata Nano, the miniscule two-cylinder, four-door runabout designed to go to market with an equally tiny $2,500 price tag. Now, due to pressures from rising commodity prices, Tata may be in jeopardy of missing that now famous 1-lakh goal. Steel prices have jumped 30% since the car's initial unveil in January, while the cost of plastics, silicon and fuel oil have risen as well. So what's next for the bottom line?

It's not only a problem for Tata; across the board, material prices are gutting once-profitable programs. Imagine drawing up designs three years ago and projecting material parts budgets (which can often be up to 70% of the part price), only to have the most expensive element of the part jump in price by 40%. That's the kind of thing which blows engineering budgets. Tata is working with its suppliers and partners to determine what the pricing adjustments will look like (when an automaker says that, they mean lower price for them to buy supplies from suppliers, which also means less profit for the supplier), but it's clear they are trying to remain as close as possible to that original $2,500 target.

Jalopnik Snap Judgement: We'll still take three, with the racing stripes, as long as matte-black paint and rear-window shotgun holders are available options. [Automotive News Submission Req.]

Ta Ta, Land Rover: British Army Replaces Defender With American Ridgback

Andrew Stoy — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EDT

In a truly majestic snub, the British Ministry of Defence has elected to replace its forward fleet of Land Rover Defenders with American-made "Ridgback" (or "Ridgeback" depending upon source) 4x4 armored trucks. The new vehicles are said to provide better protection for troops, better handling — better "manoeuverability" in the Queen's English, and, gasp, better reliability! We're not sure if the replacement plans are a tacit acknowledgement that there is no more British auto industry left to which the government should be loyal, or if British forces were simply getting tired of Lucas Electrics letting the smoke out deep down Kandahar way, where there's not only no proper service facility, but the tea is positively ghastly. [Autocar.uk, Photo Credit: Rover Nut @ Flickr]

More Evidence Points To Hummer Sale; Russians, Chinese Interested?

Andrew Stoy — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:15:00 EDT

More evidence is emerging that GM is moving quickly to solve its Hummer problem. The Detroit Free Press reports today on John Voss, a Dayton-area dealer who purchased a Hummer franchise in April, who says that GM offered to refund his money. "They have three choices and they said they want to make this decision very quickly," Voss said. "They are either going to make a smaller Hummer hybrid and change the H2, close the brand or sell it." Given the lead time needed to create a Hummer hybrid or impose radical changes to the H2 and the implications of closing the brand, a sale still seems to be the most practical option for GM.

Countries raking in huge oil profits are would be the most likely destination for Hummer. Markets in Russia and Latin America continue to demand large SUVs, while China and India are potential suitors as well. At least one analyst speculated about Hummer as a logical fit for Tata Motors. "It would be a great fit with Land Rover," said Rajesh Kothari, a partner with investment banker Seneca Partners LLC and Manchester Holdings. "Hummer is a similar product line; it has similar demographics but a different reach." While the combination of Tatas and a Hummer make perfect sense to us, a spokesperson from the Indian automaker declined to comment.
[Freep; Photo Credit: GraniteGrok.com]

Jaguar Moving To New Jersey, Employees To Adopt Comical Accents

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:20:00 EDT

We suggest you not underestimate the staggering drawing power of the Garden State, especially to English companies that are now Indian companies. Jag is joining the club and moving its HQ and approximately 50 employees from Irvine, CA to New Jersey. Why is Jersey, already home to luxury automaker BMW, so appealing to Jaguar and Tata executives? Was it the Paramus Mall? Bon Jovi? Not quite.

First, the company already has a significant infrastructure already in place in the state. Second, it's a much shorter flight to New York from Mumbai and London, reducing executive jet lag. Third, Ratan Tata loves Springsteen. In fact, at a recent concert, Tata was heard to scream "Play Darkness On The Edge Of Town" repeatedly. [Photo: Getty Images, Auto News (Subs. Req.)

Tata Looking At Buying Hummer, Jokes Write Themselves

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Okay, sooner or later Tata is going to have to stop making headlines, 'cause we're really, really trying to cut back on the innuendo. But today we get news that Tata is considering purchasing the brand GM may be trying to shed, Hummer. And even with our newfound restraint, we have to admit we had a mild aneurysm at the innuendo potential. Nobody from either the GM or Tata side is willing to make a comment on the possible sale, but word is that GM is shopping the brand around to the Indian mega-conglomerate. This makes us wonder, how does Tata greenwash itself when it builds a tiiiiiiny car, and a giant, gas-guzzling SUV? Well, we're sure they'll figure it out — Hummer tatas! [India Times]

First Video Of Tata Nano Actually Driving, The $2,500 Money Shot

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Ever since the Tata Nano set the world ablaze with the promise of the $2,500 car, we've been anxious to see one actually driving around. Alas, courtesy of a couple of dudes with a camera we now have the video of the half-pint people mover actually moving people. And unlike those fancy American cars, there's no need for serious camo on the Tata Nano when testing, as that would drive the price of the car up to $2,501. Check out the jumpy, blotchy video above. [YouTube via TopSpeed]

2010 Jaguar XF-R

Wes Siler — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:40:00 EDT

KGP, the quickest-snapping spy photographers this side of Jim Dunne (he doesn't wait to focus) just caught the best shots yet of the up-powered 2010 Jaguar XF-R as it rolled through the city streets somewhere in the UK. Check out those hood vents, that big and aggressive front air dam and the grille's new strainer-like mesh treatment. As far as the powerplant, KGP tells us

"Sources report that the XF-R will get a new supercharged 5.0-liter V8 making a minimum of 500 horsepower, so Jaguar clearly appears to have the likes of the BMW M5 and AMG E63 in its sights."

Yes, this pretty kitty positively oozes the feel of performance. Maybe it will help to overcome that rear end quarter panel that positively oozes the look of a Dodge Intrepid. Full spy report after the jump. Wait, Jim Dunne's still alive? Who knew? — Ed.

We caught our best shots yet of the Jaguar XF-R as it rolled through the city streets in the UK. Hood vents, a deeper, more aggressive front air dam, and a new mesh treatment to the grille coverings signify the hottest version of the XF. The XF's side vents are also blacked-out for a more sinister look. Large turnbine-style wheels (likely to be 20-inchers) are taped up a bit, but their aggressive design is clearly visible. Quad exhaust tips round out the visual changes. The XF-R's body mods are subtle, yet very pursposeful to set it apart from lesser XF models.
Sources report that the XF-R will get a new supercharged 5.0-liter V8 making a minimum of 500 horsepower, so Jaguar clearly appears to have the likes of the BMW M5 and AMG E63 in its sights.

Renault-Nissan And Bajaj Team Up On Tata-Upstaging $2,500 Car

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 12 May 2008 09:40:00 EDT

Ratan Tata and his eponymous company sent the automotive world buzzing with news of their $2,500 car, the lilliputian Nano. At the time, we reported that Bajaj Auto, which is partnered with Renault-Nissan, was going to announce a $3,000 car. Turns out the companies have found a way to cut $500 off the price to create a $2,500 competitor. To make this car the three companies are creating a new company with ownership split between Renault (25%), Nissan (25%) and Bajaj Auto (50%). No name on the car other than the codename "ULC" which we can only guess stands for "Uncomfortable, Little and Cheap." The car is to be sold in India in early 2011 as the primary market. Press release below the jump.

Bajaj Auto and the Renault-Nissan Alliance to build the car code- named ULC with wholesale price range starting from 2500 USD
PARIS/PUNE/TOKYO (May 12, 2008) - Mr. Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj and Mr.
Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and President and CEO of Nissan, today
announced they will form a joint-venture company to develop, produce and market the car
code-named ULC with a wholesale price range starting from 2500 USD . The new joint-venture
company will be 50% owned by Bajaj Auto, 25% by Renault and 25% by Nissan.

Targeting the growing Indian new vehicle market, this ULC will be made at an all-new plant to be
constructed in Chakan (Maharashtra state) in India. Initial planned capacity will be 400,000 units
per year. Sales will start in early 2011 in India, as a primary market, with growth potential in other
emerging markets around the world.

The feasibility has already extended into Joint Product Development and the project is on line to
meet targeted performance & cost.

[Source: Renault]

Volga Display Of Prana: Russian Automaker GAZ Seeks Partners In India

John Krewson — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EDT

Apparently this has been out there for a while, but before we discussed the news that Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod, manufacturers of the Volga line of hulking vehicular tragicomic props, was looking for partners on the Indian subcontinent, we needed to find press releases with the right sort of Moose-Und-Sqvirrel feel.

The actual hard news, of course, is that GAZ is most likely trying for a piece of the commercial vehicle market in auto-ascendant India, where Tata recently made headlines by unveiling the $2500 Nano and buying a couple venerable British marques off Ford. Unfortunately, it's unclear exactly which Indian firm would partner with Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod, as while their name may be fun to say, they'd be up against current native truckmaker Mahindra, among others. What we can tell you as an absolute press-release certainty, though, is that

"success of cars launched by all global players in India is driving force behind Russia to think over entering Indian auto market."

Or, as one GAZ senior official evidently said,

"As auto is one of the key areas of the India-Russia Forum on Trade and Investment we are looking at business partnership in future."

Industry implications aside, it's lots of fun to imagine Russian heavy vehicles operating in the nation with the world's largest population of stray cows. Probably even more fun than coming up with silly "In Soviet Russia..." jokes.

Tata Strikes a Deal. Now What?

Ray Wert — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 17:48:51 EDT

The Jaguar and Land Rover employees I’ve talked to recently — the few still on the payroll — say that Ford cut off financial life support for the brands a while back. The U.S. headquarters building in Irvine, Calif., for Ford’s crumbling Premier Automotive Group, of which Jaguar and Land Rover were key components, is eerily empty.

Tata Now Owns Jaguar, Land Rover, Rover, Daimler And Lanchester

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 16:15:00 EDT

Apparently, we were more prescient (or slow) than we thought when we asked "Who Should Tata Buy Next?" It turns out that, as part of the Ford-Tata deal, Tata ended up owning not only the Jaguar and Land Rover brands, but also Daimler, Rover and Lanchester. Someone is going to have to re-do that chart. The story of how the names have transfered is kind of hilarious and featured under the jump. It also may have played into the mysterious $300 million that evaporated from the big deal this week.

Lanchester
This one is easy. Based in Birmingham, England, the Lanchester Motor Company made cars from the late 19th century until 1930 when it merged with Daimler.

Daimler
This one is somewhat more confusing. There's Daimler and Daimler. Daimler of Germany is formerly Daimler-Benz, DaimlerChrysler and now Daimler AG. This isn't to be confused with Daimler of Britain, which made cars using Gottlieb Daimler's engines. That company traded hands to the British Small Arms Company, then to Jaguar and then to Ford through PAG. The last Daimler made was the Jag XJ-rebadged Daimler Super Eight. With the purchase of Jaguar and Land Rover, Tata inherits British Daimler.

Rover
Chinese Automaker Shanghai Auto (SAIC) merged with Nanjing Auto, which purchased the struggling Rover brand and all its assets. Well, not quite all of its assets. BMW had the Rover brand years ago and never parted with the name. Unwilling to sell it to the Chinese, who were forced to call their cars Roewe, the company sold it to Ford, a better steward and a company that didn't want Rovers out there being confused with Land Rovers. But now, with this deal, that name gets transferred to Tata.

This means that, in theory, we can have Indian built Nanos rebadged as Daimlers or Rovers while actual MG/Rover products are being built in China under the name Roewe. If we were Tata, we'd consider selling the Rover brand to SAIC.

[Auto News Europe via AutoBlog]

Commenter Of The Day: Reversal Of Fortune Edition

Matthew DeBord — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:15:00 EDT

Try this on for size: Between the wars, at its pinnacle in the 20th century, Britain exerted dominion over almost half a billion people. Yes, yes, it would all go completely to crap in less than 50 years and leave us associating the UK with the likes of the Spice Girls, Simon Cowell and Amy Winehouse. Imperialists all, in their own ways, but not exactly the same thing. Anyway, the sheer global vastness of the Pax Britannica is not something that exits collectively memory all that quickly, even as the land of King Arthur and Winston Churchill sheds assets like they were going out of style. We hinted at this development in our Question Of The Day, which focused on increasingly mighty Tata Motors and the matter of whom they should next acquire, after Jaguar and Land Rover. Which of course brings us to the realignment of power and influence that's currently afoot, and to our COTD.

We bestow the the honors on Maymar, who in reply to commenter estern, delivered this memorable quip:

They should go after Holden, too, start buying out companies from all of the UK and the colonies. The sun will never set on the Indian Empire!

Who needs former masters to become servants, when you can just buy up all their stuff?

Who Should Tata Buy Next?

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EDT

As we learned yesterday, every automaker owns every other automaker and it's just a matter of who gets the biggest piece of the pie. And now that the Tata-Land Rover-Jag-Ford deal is all-but complete, we can officially anoint Ratan Tata as the hungriest hippo in the automotive world. We'd also point out that the main Tata hinted at getting a stake in Ferrari next. With the impending Nano and a gigantic market, can he be stopped?

Eventually, but not for a while. In the meantime, he seems to be positioned to take advantage of the fact that certain other automakers aren't prospering and have extra brands for sale. Let's pretend your Tata's main business advisor and he's got an appetite for car companies. Who's next?
[Photo: AP]

Ford Officially Selling Jaguar, Land Rover To Tata For $2.3 Billion, Song And Dance

Ray Wert — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 08:31:00 EDT

While many decided yesterday to report "officially" that Ford was shaking Jaguar and Land Rover free to the Indian subcontinent for $2.6 billion we knew it was prudent to wait and report it as merely rumor because that number just didn't sound right. That's because here at Jalopnik, we "get" the US auto industry and we knew that when an 'merican automaker (German automakers too — that's right Daimler, we're looking straight at you) spends billions of dollars to bring a brand back to solvency, you expect a sale price to in no way reflect that. Ford didn't disappoint. You see, the sale's actually for $2.3 billion — $300-some-odd million less than yesterday's "whisper number." But wait, there's more. In addition to the cash transaction with Tata Motors, they'll also inject a hot $600 million capital infusion into the pension plans of the two brands. You know, because they haven't already sent enough money into the black hole that was Ford's PAG. Full press release after the jump.

FORD MOTOR COMPANY ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO SELL JAGUAR LAND ROVER TO TATA MOTORS

DEARBORN, Mich., March 26, 2008 - Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Jaguar Land Rover operations to Tata Motors.

The transaction is the culmination of Ford's decision last August to explore strategic options for the Jaguar Land Rover business, as the company accelerates its focus on its core Ford brand and "One Ford" global transformation.

The sale is expected to close by the end of the next quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.

The total amount to be paid in cash by Tata Motors for Jaguar Land Rover upon closing will be approximately US $2.3 billion. At closing, Ford will then contribute up to approximately US $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans.

"Jaguar and Land Rover are terrific brands," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company. "We are confident that they are leaving our fold with the products, plan and team to continue to thrive under Tata's stewardship. Now, it is time for Ford to concentrate on integrating the Ford brand globally, as we implement our plan to create a strong Ford Motor Company that delivers profitable growth for all."

"This is a good agreement. It provides the Jaguar Land Rover management team and employees with the assurances needed to maintain their focus on delivering the best results for the business," said Lewis Booth, executive vice president, Ford Motor Company, who has responsibility for Ford of Europe, Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover. "I am confident that, under its new owner, Jaguar Land Rover will continue to build upon the significant improvements and product successes it has achieved in recent years."

As part of the transaction, Ford will continue to supply Jaguar Land Rover for differing periods with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components, in addition to a variety of technologies, such as environmental and platform technologies. Ford also has committed to provide engineering support, including research and development, plus information technology, accounting and other services.

In addition, Ford Motor Credit Company will provide financing for Jaguar and Land Rover dealers and customers during a transitional period, which can vary by market, of up to 12 months.

The parties believe these arrangements will support Jaguar Land Rover's current product plans, while providing Jaguar Land Rover freedom to develop its own stand-alone capabilities in the future that will best serve its premium manufacturer requirements.

The parties do not anticipate any significant changes to Jaguar Land Rover employees' terms of employment on completion.

Speaking about today's agreement, Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors, commented: "We are very pleased at the prospect of Jaguar and Land Rover being a significant part of our automotive business. We have enormous respect for the two brands and will endeavor to preserve and build on their heritage and competitiveness, keeping their identities intact. We aim to support their growth, while holding true to our principles of allowing the management and employees to bring their experience and expertise to bear on the growth of the business."

Jaguar Land Rover's employees, trade unions and the UK Government have been kept informed of developments as the sale process progressed and have indicated their support for the agreement.

Speaking on behalf of Jaguar Land Rover, Geoff Polites, chief executive officer, said: "Jaguar Land Rover's management team is very pleased that Ford and Tata Motors have come to an agreement today. Our team has been consulted extensively on the deal content and feels confident that it provides for the business needs of both our brands going forward.

"We have also had the opportunity to meet senior executives from Tata Motors and the Tata group," Polites continued. "They have expressed confidence in the team that has delivered significant improvements in Jaguar Land Rover's business performance. We feel confident that we can forge a strong working relationship with our new parent company, and we look forward to a bright and successful future for Jaguar Land Rover."

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Michigan, United States, manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 230,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

Safe Harbor

Statements included herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated. We cannot be certain that any expectation, forecast or assumption made by management in preparing these forward-looking statements will prove accurate, or that any projection will be realized. More detailed information about these and other factors that could affect future results is contained in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of their initial issuance, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

CNBC Asia Reporting Tata, Ford To Close Deal For Jaguar, Land Rover Shortly

Ray Wert — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 11:51:14 EDT

The version of "America's Business Channel" spiced with a taste of Asia is reporting Tata's close to finalizing a deal with Ford for Jaguar and Land Rover we've been reporting on for what seems like forever. A Tata Group spokesman said discussions were still going on and the company had no guidance to give reporters on the deal, but a variety of sources are now claiming signatures could be put on paper as early as tomorrow on a deal we're hearing to be less than $2.65 billion. Ratan Tata, the founder and CEO of Tata Motors, is reportedly so excited, he's tried to shake a set of Jaguars. Hmm, that isn't quite as funny.

Tara Tiny Is The New Tata Nano, Priced At $2,450

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:20:00 EDT

The race to the bottom continues as Bengal Enamel's Tara International will be teaming with Chinese company Aucma to produce a sub-sub-1-lakh car called the Tara Tiny. Yes, the little-known company seeks to lakh-block the Tata Nano by building a range of electric powered two- and four-seat cars starting at a rock bottom price of 99,000 Indian Rupees, 999 Rupees less than the price media outlets originally reported. With a grand total of 35 moving parts and a range of 100 km, the Tiny should be an urban drivers dream come true — low maintenance costs, eight hour recharge time via a 250 V outlet, and no need for costly speeding tickets (it only goes about 30 mph).

The best — or worst — part of this story is the Tara Tiny is being considered for export to the US. You know, cause we need even slower cars in the fast lane clogging up the works. Judging from these images of the car which makes the jokes come both small and easy, the Tiny will corner the market for families looking to haul their tired kids around (har har har). (Hat tip to Dhiram!) [NewLaunches]

Could The Jaguar E-Type Be Making A Return?

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:30:00 EDT

Despite the ongoing shenanigans between Ford and TATA over the sale of Jaguar and Land Rover, there are whispers emerging about the possible revival of the venerable Jaguar E-Type. Australia's Courier Mail is reporting Jag honchos are considering the revival of what many consider the most beautiful production car to have ever been built. This news has us torn. While we absolutely love the E-Type, so much so that it holds a position in the Jalopnik Fantasy Garage, we think on Jags history of reviving legendary marques and wonder if this is this a good idea.

There's something magical about old Jaguars, E-Types especially, which are capable of making you completely lose your ability to process rational thought. They are beautiful without compromise, with exotic and sometimes maddening engineering. You just can't help but stare at an E-Type. With the revival of the S-type and all but tragedy of platform prostitution, and the original lackluster design of the E-Type mimicking XK8, can the designers pen really be trusted to reinterpret the old XKE? It is a tantalizing prospect, but if it comes to pass, the suspense will probably kill us.

BMW Plans To Challenge $2,500 Car In India With $49,000 Mini

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EDT

When Indian carmaker Tata made international headlines with their $2,500 Tata Nano other automakers took notice. One of those automakers is BMW, which already has a growing sales operation in India. Wanting to get a slice of the small car market, the company is considering bringing over the Mini. The projected cost? No less than Rs.2 million, or $49,444. This would make it the most expensive small car in the country at a cost equivalent to 20 Nanos.

The company currently sells nearly a full line of BMW vehicles, including M products. Last year the company sold 1,387 units, including about 743 3-series. A feasibility report has been submitted and it'll be up to the company's management to decide whether or not the Mini will actually reach India. If it does we hope they remember to delete the Union Jack roof option. [Economic Times India]

Tata Considering Buying Stake In Ferrari, All Your Premium Automakers Are Belong To India

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 09:40:00 EST

Not content to just sell the cheapest car, the Tata Nano, or to own the formerly imperial Jag and Land Rover, it's now rumored that Ratan Tata is interested in getting in bed with Ferrari (and we're not talking about a stripper from Paramus named Ferrari). Motor Authority has latched on to a quote from Italy's L'Espresso, wherein Ratan Tata says he'd always dreamed of being a jet fighter and/or owning a stake in Ferrari... like all normal children.

Though this is a rumor, no one should doubt the will of Ratan Tata to do whatever he wants and Tata already has a small stake in Fiat, Ferrari's parent company. [Motor Authority

Tata Nano Makes The World Go 'Round

Mark Arnold — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST

"Technology, the new life-force." That's what Tata Motors says. We had no idea. We kinda miss the old life-force — you know — life? Whatever. One thing this video played this morning at the Nano reveal can give you, is a feel for just how important the automaker from India sees themselves. But who can blame them, what with all the magazine cover stories and the comparisons of the Tata Nano to the Ford Model T. Of course, the Model T was a replacement for horses, while the Nano is a replacement for ~~the iPod Mini~~ ~~toy cars~~ scooters. We're not sure if we'd actually want to own one, but from a product standpoint, it's hard not to admire the little $2500 wonder.

Tata Nano, Not for Europe; Just Saying Hi To Geneva

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST

Ratan Tata, the Henry Ford of Mumbai, just revealed his dreamwork here, the Tata Nano, to a European audience here at the Geneva Auto Show that may never get to drive one. The micromini — which, in person, appears to be two scooters sheathed inside an extra-large Maytag dryer — is for now just for emerging markets where safety regulations are far less stringent. The price is 100,000 rupees, which is a mere $2,500. That's cheaper than some scooters, and you only get one! Nonetheless, Tata says he's repaying Geneva for its hospitality 11 years ago when he was a paltry millionaire and his car company was just a fledgling. Now there are four million Tatas on the road, and soon to be many millions more of this microbox.

Tata Buying Jag and Land Rover from Beleaguered Ford, Getting Even More Bodacious

Matthew DeBord — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST

It appears speculation hath ended and the courtship is nearly consummated. According to Automotive News, Ford and Tata Motors will announce that the Blue Oval is selling two of its Premium Automotive Group brands, Jaguar and Land Rover, to the Indian conglomerate. Automotive News is also reporting the official word of the sale—as well as confirmation of the $2 billion price tag that has been bandied about for several months now—will occur March 5 or 6. If that report's correct, ust like that, Ford sheds its two Anglophilic marques and dispatches them to quite possibly a more rightful home on the Subcontinent, where sleek, posh motorcars and rugged SUVs favored by royalty may encounter better ownership. Or at least a more nationalistic one.

By the by, if you're interested in the widely assorted businesses that Tata is into, this story from the IHT lays it out nicely and provides some background on the deal. Frankly, Jag and Land Rover never really seemed like a great fit with Ford. If anything, Ford dragged the brands down by failing to understand what made them tick. Tata says it won't make management changes, but a wholesale restoration of what Jag and Land Rover are all about is in order, so take that statement for what it's worth. [Automotive News]

BBC Discovers Air Car, We Chuckle At Fill Up Procedure

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST

We heard about the Tata backed and French developed Air Car back in January and are intrigued by the brilliantly simple concept. It seems the Beeb has caught wind of it too and recently ran the coverage you see above. The numbers on it are pretty exciting for something running like an air compressor with its valves reversed. A top speed of 110 km/h and a range of 200 km makes it seem almost useful. Predictions on production dates are to be taken with a grain of salt, but claims of the end of the year are bandied about. Wonder if it will be an available option on the Tata Nano?

In Russia, VAZ Make Cheap Car For YOU!

Mark Arnold — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST

With all that land mass and all those people, Russia is expected to be the largest car market in Europe within a few years. And what do the proud people of Russia want? Cheap, honest transportation; a "people's car." Well that's exactly what Russia automaker AvtoVAZ wants to give them. Since most of these consumers are not going to be shopping for the likes of an Audi R8 or a custom SUV, AvtoVAZ (known to us as the maker of Ladas) wants to bring a car to market with a price tag of about $6000. According to AvtoVAZ head Boris Aleshin,

"We need to produce a new very cheap car model costing around $US six- seven thousand but not more than $US 7.3 thousand, and probably there will be several budget models,"

While this seems downright expensive compared to the ~~named by Apple~~ built in India Tata Nano, it should be cheap enough to attract consumers who would otherwise buy a used car and/or non-Russian marque.

[via Russia Today]

Malaise Redux: Blame the Tatas

Matthew DeBord — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST

The previous malaise era had its clutch of culprits: OPEC, mismanagement at the Federal Reserve, the Vietnam hangover, the Watergate hangover, the Altamont hangover, the hangover hangover. But blame for Malaise 2.0 is being placed squarely and preemptively on the ~~third~~ developing world. Sure, sure, all was well and good when they were caught up in their quaint revolutionary ~~progroms~~ ambitions and impenetrable caste systems. Back then, our Chinese and Indian brothers on the Big Blue Marble got around using swayback scooters, rickshaws, bikes made of pig-iron, occasionally a main battle tank, and their own damn feet. All the sudden, however, they done caught the auto-MO-tive bug.

And if you believe the various pundits assembled by CNNMoney.com, in a recent report, that infection combined with their penchant for manufacturing eensy proletarian vehicles that your average call-center employee in Bangalore can afford means, yes, pain at the pump for the U.S.A. Gas that tops $5 a gallon for 87-octane has nothing to do with profiteering oil companies and our proud nation's anemic refineries—no, when that day comes and it costs $150 to fuel up a Tahoe, it will be the fault of the wee Tata and its ilk. Little bitty cars that sip gas and are driven by deeply impoverished people. There's your eulogy for relatively inexpensive fuel and the rumbling V8.

Tata Xenon Is Rugged, Diesel Equipped

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:15:00 EST

Tata recently came out with its latest light truck offering for the South African Market, the Xenon. Compact pickups in South Africa are called bakkies, a term we think is the bees knees, and this one is Tata's second bakkie for that market. The Xenon rides on a double wishbone front suspension with a solid axle and leaf spring setup in the back. Shift-on-the-fly all wheel wheel drive can be accomplished up to 65 kph by way of a knob on the dash - four wheel low has to be engaged at a stand still. The truck has only one power option, a 3 liter four cylinder turbo diesel with direct injection good for 114 hp and 220 lb.ft. of torque routed through a 5 speed manual. All that is well and good, but the tubular bumpers and roll over bars are the real winners here. When and why did that go out of style?

Tata Partners with Chrysler for Electric Truck, U.S. Nano on the Horizon?

Travis Hudson — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:30:00 EST

That $2,500 Tata Nano jobber has been all over the news as of late. There was no word if this marvel of engineering would ever make it to the good old United States. Rest assured, Tata is one step closer to getting something over here, following a recent announcement of a partnership with Chrysler.

Okay, I'll slow down a bit. The Reuters report says that the Chrysler and Tata partnership will be for an electric Ace, Tata's truck (think Tonka), and not the Nano. But I can't help but speculate what might happen if the $2,500 wondercar would ever get to America. Big money, big money, big money, no whammy, no whammy, STOP! [Reuters]

Nigerian Request for Tata Nanos

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST

For some strange reason, Belema West, apparent President of the GrassRoots Peace Ambassadors Forum, sent us a request for 300 of the budget-friendly Tata Nano mini-cars revealed mere weeks ago. You read that right, 300. That's $750,000 worth of Tatas. The substantial fleet of small cars would be used to shuttle Nigerian civil servants around the Niger Delta region doing whatever it is that peace ambassadors in that dangerous area do these days. Unfortunately, because of production restrictions, we will require some funding to start the process. A total of $75,000, or only 10 percent, will be needed to help transfer material to the production line. If this is done, we will provide a substantial discount and expedite the order. A copy of the email has been provided below as record.

From: Belema West Date: Jan 23, 2008 10:17 PM Subject: Biz package (300 of ur cars for senior civil servent in the NigerDelta area in Nigeria. To: tips@jalopnik.com
good day sir,
my names are belema west sorry to distourb you. sir, for
a start, 300 of ur cars (tatanano)for senior civil servent in the
NigerDelta area in Nigeria.i want to be the mediator betwin ur company
and government.in de NigerDelta area, if ur company is interested u
have to come down to nigeria lets meet face2face and talk
biz.................. e26nbsp;

thanks

Belema West.
President:GrassRoot Peace Ambassadors Forum

Fast Lane Daily Talks Nano, GT-R, Viper and M6 Race Car

Ben Wojdyla — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:15:00 EST

In today's Fast lane Daily, Derek D recaps the unveil of the Tata Nano, Nissan's new GT-R GT500, and dishes some gossip about Cerberus possibly forcing the demise of the Dodge Viper. Then we switch over to some nice video footage from Garage419.com showing off the baddest M6 we've ever seen. A full tube frame, all carbon fiber body, and a Daytona series E39 M5 engine combine to form ~~Voltron~~ a really kick ass track star. We apologize for the woeful lack of cowbell.

Build Your Own Tata Nano

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST

As Jalopnik's Tata Nano day draws to a close, it's worth noting the lag on the Nano mini-site has dropped and you can go right to the corporate site to check out the content there. Even though the site is as lean and mean as the car it's promoting, it has a fair amount of interesting content (US, German, Japanese Automakers take note). The site has everything; a ~~pimp~~ build your own Nano feature, a blog, notes about the development, wallpapers, forums... heck, it's very possible that Tata understands the whims of the web far better than the global automakers do. We've taken the liberty of prepimping some Nano's for you, and the snazzy wallpapers are down in the gallery. [Tatapeoplescar.com]

First Video of Tata Nano - 2008: A Nano Odyssey

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST

If the 2008 Tata Nano is as dramatic as its unveil would have you believe, it will soon be learning how to use tools and build space stations. We covered the unveiling of the Tata Nano earlier, but this shaky video is the first we've seen of the little car that could as it bowed at the 2008 Delhi Auto Show. We're loving the soundtrack if you couldn't tell. Such grandeur, so much power and yet, so delicate. After that it's Mr. Ratan Tata himself doing some talking and then the audio breaks up a bit. An appropriately epic start to an epic shift in the industry.

The $3,000 Car From Bajaj Is $500 Classier Than the $2,500 Tata Nano

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:30:00 EST

It should be obvious to most that a $2,500 car is destined to fail. But a $3,000 car... GENIUS! Not wanting to be upstaged (though, upstaged anyways), Bajaj has launched a prototype of what it calls the $3,000 people's car for the people that can afford another 0.25 lakh. The car is being designed through a partnership with Renault/Nissan and we'll therefore see a cheap version of this car from those automakers.

The only drawback is that this particular prototype might need another two years of development before it hits the street while its rival the Tata Nano will be clogging the streets of Delhi before the end of the year. [AutoInCar]

Huffing and Puffing: Tata Electric Car To Run on Compressed Air?

Travis Hudson — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:15:00 EST

After 14 years worth of research, design and testing, former Formula 1 driver Guy Negre has done what I did back in 7th grade — make an air-powered car. Okay, my air car was a little less complex than this design, but it got third place in the shop class race off and had flames on its tiny, 8-inch long chassis. Now, Indian manufacturer, Tata Motors, yes, the same company that just brought you the cheap-ass Nano a few hours ago, is backing a car powered by compressed air.

The car — which we'll keep calling it as it currently lacks a name — is capable of traveling upwards of 125 miles on three dollars worth of compressed air thanks to mostly air- and fuel-driven motor and brake power recovery system. Prices are very reasonable as well with the first fleet being estimated at only $7,000 each. The very conceptual-looking design pictured here is nothing to drop your trousers about, though. [a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/01/air_car_is_here.php">Treehugger]

The $2500 Tata Nano, Unveiled in India

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:41:15 EST

After months of rumors and tantalizing leaks — and as we first told you earlier this week — Indian automaker Tata Motors has finally unveiled the Tata Nano — its already legendary $2,500 (1-lakh)car. As expected, the car that Tata claims will change the face of not only the Indian car market, but the global auto industry will be a four door, five seat hatch, powered by a 30 HP Bosch 624 cc four stroke engine mounted out back and mated to a CVT. That makes the Nano the first time a 2-cylinder gasoline engine will be used in a car with a single balancer shaft. The Nano's also expected to get 54 US miles per gallon. Yes, but will it blend? Full press release after the jump with all the details. By the way — are we the only ones happy to see a Tata Nano sporting what looks like a bra above? Also — how long do we think it'll take before Apple files a lawsuit over the name? Update: We've got video of the unveil posted HERE

Tata Motors unveils the People's Car
A comfortable, safe, all-weather car, high on fuel efficiency & low on emissions

Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of the Tata Group and Tata Motors, today unveiled the Tata 'NANO', the People's Car from Tata Motors that India and the world have been looking forward to. A development, which signifies a first for the global automobile industry, the People's Car brings the comfort and safety of a car within the reach of thousands of families. The People's Car will be launched in India later in 2008.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony at the 9th Auto Expo in New Delhi, Mr. Ratan N. Tata said, "I observed families riding on two-wheelers - the father driving the scooter, his young kid standing in front of him, his wife seated behind him holding a little baby. It led me to wonder whether one could conceive of a safe, affordable, all-weather form of transport for such a family. Tata Motors' engineers and designers gave their all for about four years to realise this goal. Today, we indeed have a People's Car, which is affordable and yet built to meet safety requirements and emission norms, to be fuel efficient and low on emissions. We are happy to present the People's Car to India and we hope it brings the joy, pride and utility of owning a car to many families who need personal mobility."

Stylish, comfortable
The People's Car, designed with a family in mind, has a roomy passenger compartment with generous leg space and head room. It can comfortably seat four persons. Four doors with high seating position make ingress and egress easy.

Yet with a length of 3.1 metres, width of 1.5 metres and height of 1.6 metres, with adequate ground clearance, it can effortlessly manoeuvre on busy roads in cities as well as in rural areas. Its mono-volume design, with wheels at the corners and the powertrain at the rear, enables it to uniquely combine both space and manoeuvrability, which will set a new benchmark among small cars.

When launched, the car will be available in both standard and deluxe versions. Both versions will offer a wide range of body colours, and other accessories so that the car can be customised to an individual's preferences.

Fuel-efficient engine
The People's Car has a rear-wheel drive, all-aluminium, two-cylinder, 623 cc, 33 PS, multi point fuel injection petrol engine. This is the first time that a two-cylinder gasoline engine is being used in a car with single balancer shaft. The lean design strategy has helped minimise weight, which helps maximise performance per unit of energy consumed and delivers high fuel efficiency. Performance is controlled by a specially designed electronic engine management system.

Meets all safety requirements
The People's Car's safety performance exceeds current regulatory requirements. With an all sheet-metal body, it has a strong passenger compartment, with safety features such as crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, seat belts, strong seats and anchorages, and the rear tailgate glass bonded to the body. Tubeless tyres further enhance safety.

Environment-friendly
The People's Car's tailpipe emission performance exceeds regulatory requirements. In terms of overall pollutants, it has a lower pollution level than two-wheelers being manufactured in India today. The high fuel efficiency also ensures that the car has low carbon dioxide emissions, thereby providing the twin benefits of an affordable transportation solution with a low carbon footprint.
(For more information: www.tatapeoplescar.com )

About Tata Motors
Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company, with revenues of US $ 7.2 billion in 2006-2007. With over 4 million Tata vehicles plying in India, it is the leader in commercial vehicles and the second largest in passenger vehicles. It is also the world's fifth largest medium and heavy truck manufacturer and the second largest heavy bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia and South America. Tata Motors and Fiat Auto have formed an industrial joint venture in India to manufacture passenger cars, engines and transmissions for the Indian and overseas markets; Tata Motors also has an agreement with Fiat Auto to build a pick-up vehicle at Córdoba, Argentina. The company already distributes Fiat branded cars in India. Tata Motors' international footprint includes Tata Daewoo Commercial Vehicle Co. Ltd. in South Korea; Hispano Carrocera, a bus and coach manufacturer of Spain in which the company has a 21% stake; a joint venture with Marcopolo, the Brazil-based body-builder of buses and coaches; and a joint venture with Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Company of Thailand to manufacture and market pick-up vehicles in Thailand. Tata Motors has research centres in India, the U.K., and in its subsidiary and associate companies in South Korea and Spain.

(For free broadcast-standard and streaming quality video content about Tata Motors, please log onto www.thenewsmarket.com/tatamotors. You can preview and request broadcast-standard video which will be delivered digitally or by tape. Registration and video is free to the media.)

- Ends -

Photo Credit: Getty Images

The Tata Sumo Grande Is Big In Japan, Spain... But For India

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:15:00 EST

The automotive industry loves foreign/loaner words, and Indian auto companies are no exception to this. Enter the Tata Sumo Grande, which we're sad to say is not the $2,500 people's car that we're all desperately waiting to see. Nope, this is just a big old three row SUV set to debut at the Indian Auto Expo

The new SUV, which looks part Borrego and part Land Cruiser, will be powered by a new generation of Tata's turbocharged 2.2 liter direct injection common rail engine (DICOR). No word on price, though we do know that it will go on sale this month. [Tata via World Car Fans]

$2500 Tatas To Be Shown Thursday

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 14:45:00 EST

Tata Motors will finally be showing off the long awaited $2500 automobile on Thursday. We've been throwing digital column space at it since August and now we'll get to see the new people's car. So what can we expect from a car that would make Henry Ford proud? Well, to borrow a phrase, everything you need, nothing you don't. The ass-engined Indian slot car is rumored to be a four door hatch with seating for five and a rounded jellybean shape. Expect power nothing and maybe a Bosch supplied 600-ish cc motor attached to a CVT. Also to be expected - YouTube videos of Indians doing choreographed auto fighting with them as soon as they hit the market.[Internation Herald Tribune]