Tata Motors has introduced something called Ziptron. No, it is not in any way related to Revotron, which is a made-up word the company uses to categorise its petrol engines. Ziptron is a new powertrain that will find duty in next-generation of electric vehicles (EVs) from Tata Motors. As per the company, the core purpose of developing Ziptron is to make new technologies affordable for consumers in India.
If you are looking for specific numbers to play with, then you will be left disappointed. But, there are a few confirmed features that Ziptron will boast. The battery, which will adhere to IP67 standards of dust- and water-proofing, will also come with a warranty of eight years. Tata Motors also highlights features such as a high voltage system, long-range travel and fast charging capability. Propelling the wheels will be a permanent magnet AC motor which will also benefit from regenerative braking tech.
So, when can we expect the first product with Ziptron technology in the market? Well, at least four of them are in the development phase, but one will see the market launch during the last quarter of the current financial year. In all probability, it will be the all-electric version of the Altroz hatchback. Tata Motors is set to launch the conventionally-powered Altroz before the calendar reads 2020. The latter will get a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 101hp/140Nm, while a 5-speed manual will handle transmission duties. Both derivatives of the Altroz broke cover during this year’s Geneva Motor Show.
Tata Motors plans to launch all four EVs before we enter the 2021-22 financial year. Among those will be an electric version of the Nexon and a more potent iteration of the Tigor EV. The current version of the Tigor EV boasts an outdated EV powertrain and is only available for commercial use.