Super Awesome Cars And Bikes: Tata Pixel : The Perfect City Car

Tata Pixel is a concept car for European cities. Based on the Nano platform, Pixel measures under-three meters and can accommodate four adults.

History

The Tata Pixel is based upon the Nano Europa concept which was first shown at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. For the Europa concept, Nano was upgraded to meet EU safety and emission standards, the concept had a number of improvements over the standard Nano, including an extended wheelbase, a new 3- cylinder engine, power steering, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an improved interior and exterior and it was also heavier than the standard Nano.

Zero Turn Drive

The Tata Pixel is able to maneuver and park in tight spaces due to the zero turn toroidal traction-drive, Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT) and due to its steering system design. This results in a turning circle radius of 2.6 meters. The steering and the transmission work together so that each wheel is driven independently with inputs from the steering system. By applying reverse drive on a single rear wheel and forward drive on a single front wheel, the car is able to turn almost in its own length.

Low Carbon Footprint and High Fuel Efficiency

The Tata Pixel features a start stop hybrid and regenerative braking system, with a fuel efficient and low emission diesel engine. It has CO2 emissions of 89 gm/km and combined cycle fuel economy of 3.4 litres/100 km.

Design

The Tata Pixel features a monographic roof, silver shaped window graphic and forward sweeping roof line. It also features a ‘Scissor’ door system for access and visibility.

Technical Specifications of Tata Pixel

Engine: 3 cylinder turbocharged diesel with Bosch multi-point fuel injection (single injector) all aluminium 66 horsepower (49 kW) 1,200 cc
Compression ratio: 9.5:1
Power: 66 PS (49 kW; 65 hp) @ 5250 rpm
Infinitely variable transmission toroidal traction- drive
Acceleration: 0-60 km/h (37 mph): 8 seconds
Maximum speed: 105 km/h (65 mph)
Fuel efficiency (overall): 29.6 kilometres per litre (3.4 litres per 100 kilometres
bore × stroke: 73.5 mm (2.9 in) × 73.5 mm (2.9 in)
Front brake: 180 mm drum
Rear brake: 180 mm drum
Front track: 1,325 mm (52.2 in)
Rear track: 1,315 mm (51.8 in)

Tata Motors is working on an extra functional ABS system instead of the costly Torotrak system. This will help to bring down the cost of the city car.

Tata will have road-going models with this technology ready by the end of this year.