Tata Motors to supply 3,192 Safari Storme SUVs to Indian Armed Forces

Tata Motors has signed a contract for supply of 3,192 units of the Tata Safari Storme 4x4 to the Indian Armed Forces, under a new category of vehicles – GS800 (General Service 800). The Safari Storme replaces the Maruti Gypsy.  

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MOD) had floated an RFP for vehicles with three basic criteria – minimum payload capacity of 800kg, hard roof and air-conditioning. The Safari Storme 4x4 has completed trials over 15 months in various terrains across the country, in the most demanding conditions with capabilities of coping with extreme on- or off-road terrains.

Commenting on the new business, Vernon Noronha, vice-president, Defence & Government Business, Tata Motors said, “We are very proud to have received this prestigious order for over 3,000 units of the Safari Storme under the newly formed GS800 category. Tata Motors has been a leading supplier of mobility solutions to the Indian Armed Forces and this order is a testimony to our partnership with the country’s security forces. This variant of the Storme has been modified from the one available for civilians with an upgraded drivetrain and significantly modified suspension. The Safari Storme was conceived and designed keeping in mind the need for a rugged, comfortable and reliable vehicle, making it popular with law enforcement agencies. We will shortly commence delivery of these vehicles for the Army and Navy in a phased manner.”

With 156 PS and 400 Nm torque, the Storme offers easy drivability, swifter response and lower NVH, with superior fuel efficiency and best-in-class ground clearance of 200mm. The 4x4 variant also features ESOF (electronic shift-on-fly) technology, enabling engagement of the 4x4 or 4x2 mode on the move.