The Tata Nexon (facelift 2020) EV 30.2 kWh (129 Hp) represents a significant step for Tata Motors into the burgeoning electric vehicle market. Introduced in January 2020 and produced through September 2023, this compact SUV was primarily aimed at the Indian domestic market, where Tata Motors holds a substantial share. The Nexon EV was designed to offer an affordable and practical electric vehicle option, addressing the growing demand for sustainable transportation in a price-sensitive market. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and features provides insight into the global shift towards electric mobility and the strategies employed by manufacturers in emerging markets. It occupies the subcompact SUV segment, competing with similarly sized gasoline and, increasingly, electric vehicles.
Tata Nexon EV: An Overview
The Nexon EV is based on Tata Motors’ Impact Design 2.0 philosophy, incorporating styling cues from the conventionally powered Nexon. However, it distinguishes itself with unique EV-specific design elements, such as a closed-off front grille and blue accents. The facelifted 2020 model brought updated styling and, crucially, a more efficient electric powertrain. The vehicle’s primary goal was to provide a viable alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, offering a combination of range, performance, and affordability. The Nexon EV played a key role in establishing Tata Motors as a leader in the Indian EV space, paving the way for further electric vehicle development and adoption.
Engine & Performance
The Tata Nexon EV is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor delivering 129 horsepower. This motor is coupled with a 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing a gross energy capacity sufficient for a claimed all-electric range of 300 kilometers (186.41 miles). The battery is located under the floor of the vehicle, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The electric motor produces 245 Nm (180.7 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing brisk acceleration. The Nexon EV achieves 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and 0-60 mph in a calculated 9.4 seconds. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.7 kg/Nm. The powertrain architecture is a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), with a single-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. The battery operates at 320V.
Design & Features
The Tata Nexon EV is a five-door, five-seater SUV. Its body style is typical of the subcompact SUV segment, offering a balance between interior space and maneuverability. The exterior design features a distinctive front fascia with a prominent grille (though closed off for aerodynamic efficiency) and sleek headlights. Inside, the Nexon EV offers a relatively spacious cabin with a focus on practicality. Key features include a touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and various safety features. The interior materials are geared towards durability and cost-effectiveness, reflecting the vehicle’s target market. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electric power steering. The vehicle’s ride height (ground clearance) is 205 mm (8.07 in), suitable for navigating varied road conditions. Trunk space is rated at 350 liters (12.36 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tata |
| Model | Nexon |
| Generation | Nexon (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | EV 30.2 kWh (129 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2020 |
| End of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 92.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 175 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 30.2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 320 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 300 km / 186.41 mi |
| Electric motor power | 129 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 245 Nm / 180.7 lb.-ft. |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| System power | 129 Hp |
| System torque | 245 Nm / 180.7 lb.-ft. |
| Kerb Weight | 1400 kg / 3086.47 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l / 12.36 cu. ft. |
| Length | 3994 mm / 157.24 in. |
| Width | 1811 mm / 71.3 in. |
| Height | 1607 mm / 63.27 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2498 mm / 98.35 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm / 8.07 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m / 33.46 ft. |
| Climb angle | 18.78° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Tata Nexon EV (facelift 2020) represents a crucial step in the electrification of the Indian automotive market. While not directly available to US consumers, its development and specifications highlight the global trends in EV technology and the strategies employed by manufacturers to cater to diverse market needs. The vehicle’s success in India demonstrates the growing viability of affordable electric vehicles and the potential for wider adoption in emerging economies.
