In the Indian electric vehicle market, Tata Motors holds a leading position due to the number of models and sales volume. However, there is a gap in the brand's product portfolio that Mahindra actively exploits. This concerns an electric seven-seater vehicle that Tata lacks but which is in high demand from Mahindra.
Following the Tata Punch, the Mahindra XUV9S became the second best-selling electric vehicle in September, and the difference in sales between these two cars is minimal. Consequently, Tata has begun work on the Safari EV to potentially change this situation and reach the top spot.
Some recent observations about this vehicle suggest an imminent launch. According to reports, the Tata Safari EV may appear early next year, possibly as early as January. Its competitors will be the Mahindra XUV9S and the recently released MG Hector Tomahawk.
Official information about the car is currently unavailable. It is speculated that this could become Tata's most powerful electric vehicle. This flagship EV will be built on Tata's Acti.ev+ platform. A battery similar to the one installed in the Tata Harrier EV may also be used in this model. Battery capacity options of 65 kWh and 75 kWh are anticipated, and some reports claim that the top configuration might offer an 80 kWh battery. This will be the company's first seven-seater SUV. With a 75 kWh battery, the rear-wheel-drive version can achieve a range of 622 kilometers.
The Tata Safari is expected to come in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions. The exterior of the car will resemble the internal combustion engine (ICE) version, with only additions characteristic of electric vehicles. The interior is likely to feature a three-screen layout, and most functions will align with those found in the Tata Harrier EV. Features expected include ventilated front seats, a panoramic roof, a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and an automatic rear door. The Safari EV will also receive a 540-degree view camera, Level 2 ADAS package, wireless smartphone charging, connected car technology, and various driving modes.
Tata Motors may launch the Safari EV with a starting price of around 20 million rupees, with top variants potentially reaching 30–32 million rupees. Regarding competition, the Mahindra XUV9S is currently available from 20.65 million rupees, while the MG Hector Tomahawk EV starts from 19.49 million rupees.
