Tata just added another facet to its passenger car business by unveiling its sub-brand called TAMO. You can read all about it here. But that’s not it. Tata also announced an interesting bit of information where it said that it is all set to reduce the number of platforms from six to two. Now from how that reads it should mean Tata has decided to just stick to two models in the future, but that does not make too much sense does it?
What does make sense is making a flexible platform that can be moulded to form cars of different shapes and segments. Not only does this reduce costs for Tata but also increases the turn-around time for new projects which means newer models coming sooner.
AMP or Advanced Modular Platform
The first to make an entry will be the AMP or the Advanced Modular Platform. Now this is what Tata claims to be the next generation future ready platform. The modular underpinnings means you can add or replace any component without affecting the rest of the system. With as many as 15 different modules, it contributes to as much as seventy per cent of the vehicle cost. Also, with almost 80-90 per cent commonality of parts across products, it leads to economies of scale.
The scalable design means one can play around with the width, length and height. Which means the AMP platform can spawn a hatchback, sedan, SUV/Compact SUV, MPV or a Crossover. It’s also lighter by almost 170kg which means better performance and fuel efficiency. The platform will incorporate Tata’s current and future engine and has also been engineered for Hybridisation and Electrification. Expect the first car with the AMP platform to hit showroom floors as early as 2018.
Ladder on frame
The second platform will be concentrated on bigger SUV’s. Cars like the Safari and the recently launched Hexa demand a rugged frame. For the future SUV’s there will be a modular ladder on frame platform that can accommodate four-wheel drive, advanced suspension setups and then some. This platform could be the one underpinning the upcoming Q501 and the new Safari.
With global manufacturers already resorting to modular architecture, Tata Motors is all set to be the Indian flag bearer when it comes to modular platforms. The first product born out of this, will not only answer a lot of questions but also pave the way for Tata Motors future.
