Tata Motors to introduce petrol, electric cars under Racer performance brand
Tata Motors is considering a strategic expansion of its newly launched Racer performance brand to include additional models and powertrain options. Following the recent debut of the Tata Altroz Racer, the company is carefully evaluating market feedback to determine the feasibility of further developing this niche segment.
Tata Motors Managing Director Shailesh Chandra indicated that a positive consumer response could lead to the introduction of high-performance electric vehicles under the Racer brand.
Among the new models being evaluated is the Tata Altroz Racer EV. Chandra confirmed that the company is actively working on an electric variant of the Altroz, which was first shown as a concept at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.
Tata Motors is also exploring the possibility of expanding the Racer brand to include petrol-powered models. “We believe this is a niche category that we are experimenting with. If that works well, there will be a more holistic thinking on how we approach the performance brand. But electric is just part of it; we (also) have a few powertrain options going forward,” Chandra added.
This strategic shift could see Tata’s Racer brand positioned similarly to Hyundai India’s N Line performance division, which currently offers three models: the i20, Venue and Creta.
This is not Tata Motors’ first foray into the performance segment. The company previously introduced JTP-badged versions of the Tiago and Tigor in 2018, developed through a 50:50 joint venture with Jayem Automotives under JT Special Vehicles (JTSV). However, the JTP models met with limited success and were discontinued in April 2020 due to the cost implications of upgrading to BS6 emission norms. In October 2020, Tata Motors acquired full ownership of JTSV, and sources indicate that the JTP range will not be revived.
As the company continues to gauge market interest, the future of the Racer performance brand will likely depend on sustained demand for electric and combustion engine performance vehicles. Which Tata cars would you like to see under the new Racer brand? Let us know in the comments section.