Meet our little engine that could, the Tata Nano. This little car from India is packed with big surprises. This “green go-kart” is estimated to be only around 5,000 dollars for a brand new one. It not only makes for conveniently affordable transportation but is also fuel efficient, and has a carbon output of only 101 gm/km. What’s that mean? We’re not sure. Additionally, the engine underneath the hood is a 2-cylinder that can run at 56 miles per gallon. Environmentally speaking, the car uses compressed-air as fuel and Tata also features an electric-version called the E-Nano.
Although the vehicle was originally created with India in mind, it is now coming to America and made its great debut at the 9th annual Auto Expo on January 10, 2008, at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, India. To say the least, this mighty little machine is creating quite the stir in the auto industry.
To environmentalists on a budget this car seems too good to be true, which unfortunately, it might be. Tata motors originally intended to create the most inexpensive production car in the world. It has even been dubbed “The People’s Car” due to its affordability and general convenience. However, while this vehicle is a great alternative to any other gas guzzler, many worry that due to the Tata Nano’s low price, consumers may turn to the Tata Nano instead of other greener means of transportation such as scooters and bicycles. Along with that concern, the safety of the vehicle has been put into question as well. While it’s certainly no “tin can on wheels”, the Tata Nano certainly comes close in weight and materials. These lighter materials and smaller design does reduce cost, but at the same time, Tata Motors’ corner cutting has also put a reasonable dent in the car’s safety ratings.
Regardless of these concerns, the car is certainly coming to America with a grand entrance, and possibly a great impact on the United States’ auto industry. At only a measly 5,000 dollars for a new Tata Nano, its easy to say we’ll be seeing more than a few of these zooming by us on the freeway. All we can say is, “buckle up”.






