The Tata Nano Twist F-Tronic with the automated manual transmission (AMT) was snapped testing recently in Chiplun, Maharashtra. The prototype is seen with testing equipment on its rear wheels.
The Twist F-Tronic was shown at the Auto Expo earlier this year and Tata officials have told Indian Autos Blog that the variant will enter production "soon". In a bid to highlight the Nano as a city friendly car, rather than a cheap one, Tata are focussing on variants like the F-Tronic and Active which have increased functionality over the standard Nano.
Powering the F-Tronic would be the same twin-cylinder 624 cc engine seen in the Nano Twist. However, where the Nano Twist gets a 4-speed manual transmission, the F-Tronic will see a 5-speed AMT, supplied by Magneti Marelli. The AMT module uses an electro-hydraulic mechanism which uses an electronic control unit to supervise clutch usage. Compared to a regular automatic transmission which uses a torque converter, the AMT would achieve 15-20 percent better fuel efficiency according to Tata.
Other changes expected in the car include redesigned front and rear bumpers, a new 3-spoke steering wheel (not seen in this image), smoked headlights and better trim and dashboard plastics.
Tata Nano Twist F-Tronic - Spy Image Gallery
[Spy images from Motorbeam]
