Random Thoughts - How can Tata sell EVs?

Tata's Indica Vista EV (Electric Vehicle) will be available to customers in India in 2011, reports Rediff.  Brands like GM and REVA have plans to boost production and market EVs aggressively.

The Indica Vista EV will also be exported to European countries where there is adequate facilities for charging. India's yet to install a proper facility and we have heard many times in the past that companies are working with the government to make it happen.

India's not yet seen a proper electric car. The REVA can only seat two adults comfortably and is cramped for tall people. It doesn't have decent luggage space or features found on petroleum powered automobiles. The Tata Indica Vista or Chevrolet Spark EV with electric powertrain can offer the comfort and convenience that they otherwise offer, and still cost less to run.

The Indica Vista EV was showcased at the Delhi Auto expo last month and will be available at dealer showrooms in 2011. The  Tata Indica Vista Electric could cost between Rs 600,000-700,000 bracket, not bad for a large hatchback that costs a fraction to run, is silent but comes with extra torque.

Tata could try handing out a hundred EVs to its Indica Vista diesel/petrol customers on a trial basis. Their feedback could be very valuable as they can point out where exactly the cars lags behind in real world conditions. The company can use this information to make changes to the product or understand where the improvements can be carried out. This is a better process than selling them, receiving feedback, and then making changes.