Project Bravo: Tata's bid to enter the quadricycle market?

The term quadricycle has gained a strong amount of popularity since the reveal of the Bajaj RE 60 in 2013. While the vehicle has been awaiting its launch for a prolonged period of time, it looks like more players are looking to enter the segment. According to a media report, Tata Motors will be looking to enter the quadricycle segment with their model - codenamed "Project Bravo".

Quadricycles are essentially vehicles that can be seen as upgrades from three wheelers. Tata Motors earlier opposed the idea, citing the lower safety standards that these vehicles will be held to (in comparison to cars). According to the source, Project Bravo will be based on the Tata Iris LCV platform, with a launch expected around 2018.

Bajaj is currently the forerunner for the segment, but the RE 60's launch has been stalled after objections by multiple high courts across the country. Many individuals and autorickshaw associations have reportedly filed petitions against the formation of the new vehicle category as well. Bajaj has made an investment of Rs 550 Crore for the RE 60 and set up a production capacity of 60,000 units annually at its plant in Aurangabad. Bajaj's RE website also showcases the quadricycle as an eco-friendly transportation option.

According to government regulations, a quadricycle can weigh up to 450 kgs for passenger vehicle versions and 550 kgs for commercial vehicles. The vehicles will be restricted to in-city usage and cannot exceed a top speed of 70 km/h.

Source: Business Standard

Note: Vehicle in image is the Tata Magic Iris. Project Bravo could be based on the LCV.