Geneva Motor Show regular Tata Motors unveiled its Megapixel concept, a range-extended electric vehicle with CO
2 emissions as low as 22g/km and the potential for 100kpl at the 2012 edition of the world's largest auto show which opened today. The stylish concept combines a lithium ion phosphate battery and an on-board petrol engine generator for recharging on the move. When electric power is depleted, a tiny 30bhp 325cc single-cylinder petrol generator kicks in to extend the range up to 900km. It can reach a maximum speed of 110kph.
Speaking on the occasion, Prakash M Telang, managing director - India Operations, Tata Motors, said: “The Megapixel, developed by our design centres in India, the UK and Italy, is our idea of a city car for discerning motorists in any megacity of the world. It is a result of the progress we have made on the Tata Pixel, displayed last year, and also denotes the company’s future design direction.”
The ‘Zero Turn’ drive system of the Pixel is now improved in the Megapixel. The car’s electric drive has four independent electric motors, one at each wheel. When parking, the electric hub motors drive the wheels in opposite directions, while the front wheels are turned at an acute angle, enabling an exceptional 2.8-metre turning radius. Also, the at-home charging system is an innovative induction charging system and the car has simply to be parked over the induction pad for charging to begin.
While the fundamental design of the Megapixel looks more production-ready than before, some more elaborate concept car features are incorporated. The Megapixel – which also previews Tata’s future design language – features double sliding doors on each side to boost cabin access. The absence of B-pillars results in a spacious, easily accessible four-seat cabin, which boasts even more space in the floor areas as the seats are cantilevered on the centre tunnel.
A smartphone can be mounted and full integrated into the front cabin, and a large touchscreen sits in the centre console to control the interior’s major functions.
Tata Motors’ other displays also include the new Safari Storme SUV, the Aria crossover, the Indigo Manza saloon and the Indica Vista hatchback.