Tata Motors is gearing up to launch the Curvv ICE on September 2, 2024. This Indian coupe SUV will feature two petrol engines and one diesel engine. However, recent rumors suggest that Tata Motors might also be considering a CNG version of the Curvv. Despite its bold design, the Curvv is expected to perform well in terms of sales. The all-electric version has already received a positive response in India, leading to high expectations for the ICE version as well. This growing anticipation is likely why Tata is exploring the possibility of a CNG variant.
Tata Curvv iCNG: India’s First CNG-Powered SUV Coupe on the Horizon
At the Curvv EV launch event, Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors, hinted at the potential for a CNG variant. Although it’s too early to confirm its release, Chandra mentioned that the vehicle’s design has been engineered to support CNG technology.
“We’ve made sure the design can accommodate CNG, and while it’s premature to announce a launch, it is under serious consideration,” Chandra said in an interview with ACI.
The CNG variant would likely feature Tata’s 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine, similar to the one found in the Nexon. It would also include twin-cylinder technology for efficient CNG storage, as showcased in the Curvv CNG concept at the Bharat Mobility Show and the upcoming Nexon CNG set to launch in early 2025. Inspired by the success of models like the Grand Vitara CNG and Hyryder CNG, Tata Motors recognizes the demand for CNG in this segment and is eager to meet it.
Tata Motors is equally confident about the Curvv EV’s prospects. Chandra predicts that the electric variant could contribute up to 30% of the Curvv’s overall sales. He believes that mainstream buyers will be attracted to the electric option, given its competitive pricing relative to petrol-automatic models and its real-world range of over 400 kilometers. Although the company is still gauging demand and hasn’t set specific sales targets, Chandra is optimistic that the Curvv EV will gain significant traction in India.
Reports from Tata Motors dealerships across the country support this optimism, with many potential Nexon EV buyers considering an upgrade to the Curvv EV for its better value proposition, especially those interested in higher-end Nexon EV variants.
CNG Could Provide a Competitive Market Edge
The ICE versions of the Curvv are expected to be competitively priced. If Tata introduces CNG variants in the future, the Curvv would become the only model in the SUV coupe or even mid-size SUV segment to offer four fuel options: electric, petrol, diesel, and CNG. This extensive powertrain lineup could give Tata Motors a strategic advantage in the market.
With increasing acceptance of alternative fuels, the CNG variants could see strong sales volumes. Both CNG and electric powertrains have been gaining popularity, and it may not be long before the Curvv iCNG sees a surge in bookings and longer waiting periods.