India has been a witness to the meteoric rise of Tata Motors, and the success story is not ready to plateau anytime soon. Since 2020, Tata Motors has revved up its engines, racing to the ‘Top 3′ manufacturers’ list in the Indian market. Much of this success can be attributed to its state-of-the-art SUV lineup. With the recent launch of Jet variants of the Nexon, Nexon EV Max, Harrier, and Safari, Tata has further solidified its stronghold. But there’s a whisper in the automotive circles – could Tata resurrect the iconic Tata Sumo?
Let’s take a deeper dive into this possibility.
Why Might Tata Resurrect the Sumo?
When we talk about modern Tata Motors, the discourse is filled with innovation and surprises. Yet, there’s a noticeable gap in Tata’s extensive lineup: an affordable 7-seater SUV. And that’s precisely where Sumo comes into the picture.
Historically, Tata had two heavyweight contenders in the 7-seater SUV segment – the Tata Sumo and the Tata Safari. While the Sumo was the more budget-friendly option, the Safari catered to a more upscale audience. With the recent launch of the new Safari, it seems only half the jigsaw is complete. Could the Sumo be the missing piece?
The idea isn’t entirely without merit. The mere mention of “Tata Sumo” invokes a rush of nostalgia for many Indian consumers. Bringing back the Sumo, if done right, could be a masterstroke. Especially if it’s designed to go head-to-head with competitors like the Maruti Ertiga.
The Roadblocks to a 2022 Tata Sumo
But, every innovation comes with its set of challenges. Before Tata embarks on this journey, there are potential hurdles to be addressed.
Currently, Tata relies heavily on two main platforms: the Alfa Architecture and the OMEGA-Arc platform. The Alfa Architecture, though revolutionary, has reached its stretch limit, making it a tough choice for a spacious 7-seater. On the other hand, the OMEGA-Arc platform, with its roots in the premium Land Rover D8 architecture, poses a different challenge. Building the Sumo on this platform could significantly inflate its cost, making competitive pricing a significant concern.
So, what’s the solution? As per industry insiders, Tata is already working on innovative skateboard platforms for its upcoming EVs. Could this be the foundation for Sumo’s resurgence? Bringing back the Sumo as an EV on this new platform would not only address the platform issue but also place Tata at the forefront of the electric revolution in the 7-seater segment.
Another potential route could be crafting a 7-seater based on Nexon’s platform and christening it the Sumo. But that’s a tricky path. The essence of the Sumo and the Nexon are worlds apart, and merging them could be like mixing oil and water.
The Electric Future: Sumo EV?
Given the push towards electrification, it’s evident that the future is electric. An EV version of the Sumo would not only be a nod to its glorious past but also a step towards a sustainable future. But this isn’t just about sustainability. With the Indian government providing incentives for EVs and a growing network of charging infrastructure, the time might be ripe for an electric Sumo. Such a move could tap into a new segment of environmentally conscious yet budget-sensitive consumers.
Our Take
The automotive industry is ever-evolving, and staying ahead of the curve is essential for survival. For Tata Motors, bringing back the Sumo might not just be a tribute to its legacy but also a strategic move to capture a segment that’s craving for innovation.
In conclusion, the meteoric rise of Tata Motors while the challenges are evident, the rewards are potentially monumental. Whether or not the Tata Sumo makes a comeback, and in what avatar, remains to be seen. But if there’s one brand that can turn this challenge into an opportunity, it’s Tata Motors. The ball, as they say, is in Tata’s court.
