Nexon revelation marks transition from Gen1 to Gen2 EVs: Tata Motors

Tata Motors

"Electrification gives you a certain freedom, it gives you a certain flexibility," citing  Kulkarni Autocar India reported. This was part of a larger conversation about how the Nexon EV has changed much since it was first introduced in the market in January 2020.

Even before this most recent makeover, the Nexon EV has improved in only three and a half years, adding selectable regeneration modes, a bigger battery option, greater power and torque, a longer range, a stronger AC charger, and a number of other features and quality-of-life enhancements. 

It also received updated battery management and cooling algorithms, V2V and V2L reverse charging, a more aerodynamic body, more incredible regen, more efficient tyres, and the previously stated new motor with this makeover.

Speaking about the motor, it is claimed that although it has similar power and torque outputs, it contributes considerably to a 7.5% improvement in total efficiency. In addition to being 20 kg lighter and more compact, the new motor spins quicker (16,000 rpm as opposed to 12,000 rpm in the old motor) and is quieter. The most major electric vehicle release will be the second generation, or Generation 2, to use Tata's terminology.

Kulkarni described the newest Nexon EV as "an evolution from Gen 1 to Gen 2." "Whether it is 1.5 or 1.7, I wouldn't put a number on it; the important thing is to keep improving to meet customer expectations." 

Tata GEn-2 EVs will have next-gen batteries 

Gen 2 cars will have significantly redesigned floor plans that enable bigger, more sophisticated batteries, new-generation motors, and even dual motors with AWD - as will be the case with the Harrier and Safari EVs - in contrast to Gen 1 models, which are ICE models with minor, inexpensive modifications to accommodate electrification.

By significantly altering the underfloor in Gen 2, Kulkarni explained, "You are able to expand the size of the battery and, more importantly, you are able to go format agnostic." This implies that you are no longer limited to using a specific type of battery. For instance, Gen 1 might work best with cylindricals, but you could also use prismatic or large-format cylindricals after that. Options become available. And that only applies to Gen 2; not even to Gen 3. 

The Gen 2 vehicles will also include gasoline-powered powertrains, despite the fact that they are usually referred to as EVs. 

Some Gen 2 vehicles, including the Punch EV, Harrier EV, and Safari EV, will be based on current ICE versions. However, as seen at the 2023 Auto Expo, two brand-new models, the Curvv and Sierra, will be Gen 2 EVs from the start and will also be available with petrol engines.

According to him, the Gen 2 may be made compatible with a wide range of alternative power propulsion systems and so serve as a platform for ICE power plants as well. Additionally, the Curvv and Sierra, two Gen 2 devices that were recently demonstrated, will be backwards compatible. 

Mutual benefit from 3-generation approach 

So in many respects, the Gen 2 vehicles, which are more of a hybrid platform than a hybrid car, will serve as the ideal link between ICE and EV versions. But is Gen 3 even necessary since Gen 2 already offers so many benefits? Yes, according to Kulkarni, a born-electric skateboard platform offers advantages of its own. 

"Aside from the battery options, when you upgrade to Gen 3, you can also make some fundamental changes to the underlying architecture, which not only gives you a lot of room for the battery but also the ability to utilise space inside the cabin for more comfort and spaciousness, and to give you, therefore, more features that you would want." 

The three-generation strategy's benefits are obvious. Tata Motors was able to move swiftly and outpace competitors with Gen 1's quick conversions, whereas Gen 2's adaptability will enable a steady transfer to newer technology while preserving ICE for the transitional period. This will then allow Tata ample time to fully develop Gen 3 in the background before releasing it after the market has advanced a little bit more.