Tata Nano CNG and diesel variants confirmed for next year

09/11/2012 - 12:36 | Tata Nano | Nithyanandh K

Tata Motors are pulling all stops to get the sales of Tata Nano up and going.

Tata Nano CNG spied in PuneTata Nano CNG spied

The Nano which was launched as the world's cheapest car is not even close to the sales prediction or the internal target.

The lackluster sales of the car has made Tata Motors explore every possibility of increasing the numbers. The company has plans to export Nano to markets like ASEAN and Latin American countries.

The strategy to improve the domestic sales comprises of introducing the CNG and diesel variants. The diesel variant of the Nano was originally set for a late 2012 launch but the Tata engineers are reportedly facing technical challenges which will delay the launch by around a year but the company assured that the plans for CNG and diesel Nano are not on hold.

See images of the Tata Nano CNG Concept from the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo

Speaking to the media, Mr. Karl Sylm, Managing Director of Tata Motors told, "Plans in this regard are not on hold. The Nano CNG is within the sight of first half of next calendar year."

He also added that the diesel variant will enter the scene a little later.

Tata Motors showcased a concept version of the CNG variant at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo and ever since has been carrying out real world tests in Pune.

Mr. Ranjit Yadav, Head of passenger car business unit at Tata said, "Of course we are way behind our plans or expectations that we had. But now Nano is finding home for itself in many new segments, including urban areas."

[Image - Tata Nano CNG (the powertrain identity sticker on the rear windshield is a giveaway) caught testing by Indian Autos Blog reader Snatak Mundade in Pune]

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