Tata Motors’ next generation Nexon EV has been spotted for the first time, indicating progress on the testing programme for the up-and-coming electric SUV. The heavily camouflaged prototype was recently spotted on a flatbed truck after previously being spotted in action with the next generation internal combustion engine (ICE) variant of the popular Nexon. The latest glimpse gives the first sign that Tata Motors is working on the next iteration of their compact electric SUV alongside the standard petrol and diesel versions.
The new spy shots give a better look at the vehicle’s underbelly, which is interesting considering the electric powertrain underneath. Since the prototype was on a flatbed truck, multiple parts were exposed on the lower side of the vehicle. A battery enclosure and the clearly visible orange high-voltage cables are the strongest signs that the test vehicle is an electric version of the forthcoming Nexon. Although the exterior is completely hidden under the camouflage, these signs point to the fact that development of the next generation Nexon EV is already underway.
The current TATA Nexon EV is one of the cornerstones of the company’s electric passenger vehicle portfolio and has played a major part in the rise of popularity of electric SUVs in India. The next generation model will likely continue to build on this reputation with improvements to design, technology, efficiency and everyday practicality. However, Tata Motors has not released any of the specifications or technical details of the upcoming electric SUV.
The next generation Nexon family is expected to see significant updates compared to the existing model. Although the ICE prototype sights suggest that Tata Motors is preparing some changes to the overall vehicle design, the electric model may incorporate EV-specific elements along with the design changes. This includes a redesigned front fascia, updated lighting elements, redesigned body panels and changes to the cabin layout. These updates will become more apparent with more prototypes spotted conducting tests on the Indian roads.
The battery and electric powertrain will continue to be the core features of the forthcoming Nexon EV. The exposed underbody components hint at the prototype carrying a dedicated high-voltage electric system, but no details have been released about the battery capacity, motor output, driving range and charging performance. It will also be too early to know if Tata Motors will introduce a substantially revised battery pack, or focus on incremental improvements to the existing electric powertrain technology.
The cabin can also see upgrades in line with the changing expectations of electric SUV buyers. A more modern infotainment system, updated digital displays, improved connected-car features and additional convenience technologies are all likely options for the new model, but none have been confirmed. Tata Motors is likely to focus on maintaining the Nexon EV’s appeal as a practical electric SUV for urban commuting as well as longer journeys.
The electric SUV will continue to operate in an increasingly competitive Indian EV market, where drivers are paying closer attention to real-world driving range, charging times, safety equipment and ownership costs. With competitors expanding their electric vehicle portfolios, the next generation Nexon EV will need to offer significant improvements to maintain its position in the segment.
For now, the heavily camouflaged prototype gives an early glimpse at Tata Motors’ plans for their next generation electric SUV. The company has not announced an official unveiling date, launch timeline, pricing or specifications. More details are expected to be revealed as testing begins, and more prototypes are spotted conducting tests on the Indian roads.