Tata Motors has started work on the next generation of its popular SUVs, Harrier and Safari. Both these models are being built on a completely new platform, which will support not only petrol and diesel but also electric variants. Along with this, the company can also bring back all-wheel drive (AWD) in these SUVs, which Tata will probably introduce under its branded name QWD (Quad Wheel Drive). This is the same name that was recently seen for the first time in the Harrier EV concept.
The new Harrier and Safari are being built under the codenames Taurus and Leo, respectively. The length of both vehicles can increase by about 100 to 200 mm, which will provide more space inside, especially for the three-row Safari. This time Tata has decided to completely leave behind its existing Omega architecture, which was earlier based on Land Rover’s D8 platform. This platform did not support AWD in ICE models, which was its biggest weakness.
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As per the plan, Tata will now offer three powertrain options in the new SUVs, first, an all-new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine; second, an upgraded 2.0-litre diesel engine being developed in-house under a licensing agreement with Stellantis; and third, an advanced version of the electric motor seen in the Harrier EV. This means that the new Harrier and Safari will come with all three options, petrol, diesel, and electric.
Apart from this, Tata Motors is also working with a Chinese technology company, Desay, on a new electrical and electronic (E&E) architecture, which will allow smart technology like advanced infotainment systems and autonomous driving features to be integrated in these SUVs.
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As far as the launch is concerned, the company has not yet given any official date for it, but the work is in full swing, and the launch of these vehicles is expected during 2025. The special thing is that the old fans of Safari were waiting for the return of AWD for a long time, and now this new step of Tata can further strengthen its hold in the SUV segment.
The new Harrier and Safari can prove to be a new beginning not only in terms of design and features, but also in terms of technology and performance.
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Source: Carlelo
