Welcome to Autoxchange - Tata Nano: the tiny car that made a massive impact

		So, how did they do it? Essentially, by engineering every single part from scratch looking at every detail and then dissecting it to see just how compact, light and simple they could make it. That's not to say that they made it unsafe, just that they took a clean sheet and an open mind to every single component that went into the car. For example, the Nano has a single windshield wiper, it also has 3 lug nuts instead of the traditional 4 or 5, not to mention drum brakes all round. It has no glove box while still maintaining reasonable storage space inside the cabin. The base model has no power steering, air conditioning, power windows or radio. Even major components such as the engine management system have been completely reengineered, resulting in a less complex and lighter Bosch EMS (see our detailed overview separately).

With that said, it's the higher end models that will drive profitability for Tata. They'll be hoping that those models out sell the base version. And judging by the reaction they've received so far, it not inconceivable to imagine that being the case. Many people who could probably afford multiple Nano's have already stated their interest in buying one as a city runabout. Those higher end models will have some of the creature comforts that we've come to expect such as power windows (for the front windows), a stereo and air conditioning. Seeing that the Nano has a large greenhouse area, air conditioning will be a must, although it remains to be seen just how effective it'll actually be.



At the moment, it appears that the success of the car will be determined only by how many Tata Motors can produce, and how quickly. But one point of concern is how will people use it? Considering the emphasis on the rural market especially, will people overload it to the point that it's unsafe regardless of what the engineers are able to do. Will they add carriers to the roof, increasing the center of gravity on what is already a tall car. The Nano will be used by many first time car users – one can only hope they take the time and effort to learn how to use it safely before hand. On the whole though, it's a modern car that meets our current emissions and safety standards. As an overall package, it really is hard to believe just how minimal the compromises are under the circumstances. You can be sure that you'll have a real fight on your hands if you aim to be one of the first few people to take delivery of a Nano later this year. Besides, you may want to wait for some of the later variants, expected to come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and the option of a diesel engine as well – after all, it'll only get better with time.


	Notice the upward sloping crease that extends from the front door to the rear of the car it looks fantastic and doesn't for a minute point to stringent cost cutting. Notice also the functional intakes that feed air to the Nano's engine mounted at the rear