The Indian auto giant Tata Motors is on the verge of availing the technological back up from its British partner JLR. This is for enhancing the quality of the new compact cars, said its MD. The move will involve utilizing the technology for design, the reduction of noise and vibration to make the product entirely relieved of any complexities. The targeted vehicles for this proposal are Indica, Indigo and Nano. Tata feels JLR is the ideal platform to rectify the technical flaws of its vehicles, as there had been fire incidents related to Nano some months ago. A group of 20 engineers from JLR joined the experts of Tata to examine the incident of fire in Nano. But the team found nothing serious about it and reported that it had been a normal case as with any other vehicle. The team found no inferior components and certified the genuineness of the vehicle. Tata’s choice of JLR comes in the wake of the latter’s impressive performance in Q1and the result is the creation of this synergy.
In another move, JLR too needs Tata’s role in designing engines for meeting the European emission norms. There will be a JV for developing engines for both companies. As of now, JLR is getting engines from its former ally Ford. Tata is fully aware of the significance of JLR’s role in promoting passenger cars globally especially ASEAN region. Tata has already withdrew from the Thai project as it found the project was not conducive. Hence the focus is on the ASEAN region. The future market strategy is to examine each market before launching vigorously and Tata is contemplating on launching another compact car on the lines of Nano.
It may stand between Nano and Indica to counter the market potential of Alto’s annual sale of 2.5 lakhs. Also, Tata Motors is eyeing on more potential for assembling Land Rovers domestically to increase the net volume. For Tata the experience of technical back up is not new as it had already been with Daewoo / Hispano Carrocera. Under the JV with Daewoo Tata involves in delivering trucks and the JV with Hispano is also doing good. Hence the one now with JLR will make Tata more comfortable and cost efficient, said its Chairman.