TATA BOLT 2014

Tata Motors kicked off the build up to the 2014 Auto Expo by unveiling the Bolt hatchback in Delhi. Based on the Indica Vista, the Bolt is completely redesigned and offers better quality interiors with more features. Tata Motors has taken its HORIZONEXT strategy further by introducing DRIVENEXT, CONNECTNEXT and DESIGNEXT. The Tata Bolt will be launched in the second half of the year and is an international model, set for launch in other parts of the world in the near future.

The Tata Bolt will be offered in two engines â€" 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine (75 BHP, 190 Nm) and 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine (85 PS, 140 Nm). Both engines are turbocharged mills using 5-speed transmissions. Under the three new NEXT initiatives, the company says the design is all new with the signature Tata grille and all new striking colours. The Tata Bolt also gets all new interiors which look modern with quality being excellent. The Tata Bolt also gets a new EPAC steering system which has an active return function and is speed sensitive. It also get a next generation ABS system with cornering stability function.

The Tata Bolt gets a new Harman Infotainment system with MapmyIndia navigation and a 5-inch touchscreen unit. The system gets a Bluetooth system with voice recognition and text to speech with phone enabled navigation. Tata Motors has roped in Narain Karthikeyan who has helped in developing the dynamics of both the Bolt and Zest. Many global cars have been benchmarked. The Tata Bolt and Tata Zest exactly the same with the only difference in the front being the sedan gets daytime running lights. The Bolt is the first in the segment to feature projector headlights and gets a floating roof spoiler which improves the appearance and also gives the car good aerodynamics.

The Tata Bolt is 3825 mm long, 1685 mm wide and 1550 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2470 mm and weighs 1080 kgs. The car runs on 15-inch tyres and has a 44-litre fuel tank. The Tata Bolt looks fresh although the Vista profile is evident but the design is quite attractive and the small touches are note worthy like the nicely shaped rear spoiler, rear bumper, C-pillar, etc. The front is unmistakably Tata but the rear reminds you of the MINI Cooper. The launch will take place post June and the Tata Bolt will be priced above the Vista Tech with which it will co-exist.