Tata Motors and Jayem Auto confirm Neo EV production

The much-rumoured Tata electric Nano is to be launched on November 28 but as the Jayem Neo, says Autocar India which broke the news a couple of days ago. 

Contrary to previous reports, Tata Motors will not launch an electric version of its Nano hatchback but will instead supply complete Nano body shells without the engine and transmission to Coimbatore-based Jayem Automotives which will manufacture and market the EV.

The Jayem Neo will be launched by Indian prime minister Narendra Modi.

Jayem Automotives has a longstanding association with Tata Motors and recently entered into joint-venture (JT Special Vehicles) with the automaker to develop sporty versions of select Tata models. Jayem will source the electric powertrain from Electra EV, a specialist firm in the business of design, development and supply of electric powertrains, battery packs as well as charging infrastructure. Electra EV is a one-stop shop for providing solutions in the electrified vehicle space.

The Neo will be powered by a 48 Volt system and 17kW (23hp) which is a modest output for a car weighing around 800kg (the conventional 623cc petrol Nano weighs 636kg). However, this specification of the Neo will only be available for the fleet market and not for personal use; according to sources, it is ‘powerful enough to serve the purpose as a city taxi’. Sources claim an ARAI cycle range of 200km on a full charge, which drops to around 140km with four persons and air-conditioning.

The Neo will be a Jayem-branded car carrying no Tata badge; however, the sides will bear a ‘powered by Electra EV’ moniker.

Jayem will supply the first batch of 400 Neos to taxi aggregator Ola Cabs at launch.  The Neo will not remain a fleet-only option. There are plans to launch a more powerful version of the Neo for private buyers too. 

Tata Motors and Jayem Auto confirm Neo EV production
In an official statement, both Tata Motors and Jayem Automotives have confirmed the news. Jayem Auto says it will assemble and market the 48-volt Neo, produced in strategic association with Tata Motors and employing the electric drive system developed and supplied to Jayem by Electra EV. The first batch of cars will be supplied shortly.

Tata Motors, which is to begin supplies of the e-Tigor to EESL soon, said: “Tata Motors has plans to be a significant player in the electric vehicle market and plans to develop a series of products in passenger cars and commercial vehicles in the EV space. The electric drive systems for this prestigious order have been developed and supplied by Electra EV – a company established to develop and supply electric drive systems for the automotive sector. Specific to the Neo order, Tata Motors has supported Jayem Auto with body shells and associated components."