What’s a motor show without its share of radical concepts? There were plenty to see at Auto Expo 2020. While some of the concept models on display could be catagorised as a bit ‘out there’, there were also many that preview things to come in the not-too-distant future. We’ve compiled our list of the seven best concepts showcased at Auto Expo 2020.
Tata Sierra EV
Tata revived the iconic Sierra name tag for an electric SUV concept at the Auto Expo. The Tata Sierra concept carries multiple design cues from the original Sierra SUV – including a modern interpretation of the iconic viewing-room-like rear windows. Sure, the single-side sliding rear door and swivel seats for the cabin seem a bit far-fetched for production, but the concept did strike a chord with showgoers familiar with the original. Tata didn’t disclose any plans for production but the fact that the Sierra e-SUV concept is built on the ALFA platform means that it isn't a theoretical impossibility. We’ve got our fingers crossed.
Tata HBX concept
We’ve seen Tata’s upcoming micro-SUV as the H2X concept before. At Auto Expo 2020, we got a closer look of what the production version will look like via the new HBX concept. Shown as a hardcore off-roader with beefy tyres, the HBX reveals a fair few production-spec details too; and the news is good. The HBX will carry the split-headlamp look of the Harrier and have large wheel arches, giving the little Tata a chunky stance. A roomy cabin is another highlight. Tata could be onto something with the plucky HBX.
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Tata HBX concept image gallery
Maruti Suzuki Futuro-e
Maruti Suzuki took the covers off the striking-looking Futuro-e concept SUV on the first day of the Expo. Far removed from the straight lines of existing Maruti SUVs like the Vitara Brezza, the model is a design study – with its fluid lines and SUV-coupé-like rear. Maruti insiders tell us the sloping roofline could be retained for production, though there was no word on when the brand plans to launch an SUV derived from the Futuro-e.
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Maruti Suzuki Futuro-e concept image gallery
Kia Sonet concept
Kia’s sub-four-metre compact SUV market challenger broke cover at Auto Expo 2020 as the Sonet concept. The SUV shares much of its underpinnings with its cousin (and chief rival), the Hyundai Venue; but visually, there’s little to link the two. In concept form, the Sonet looks bold and purposeful; but even if you tone down the bumpers and think of regular wheels and tyres, there’s promise of an attractive-looking SUV. Kia didn’t show the Sonet’s interior but a class-leading 10.25-inch touchscreen can be expected on the final product, which comes in August 2020.
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Kia Sonet compact SUV concept image gallery
Mahindra Funster
The most intriguing model at Mahindra’s stand, the Funster concept is a hard-top, convertible electric SUV. It’s even got scissor doors! Details like the headlights and grille could make it to the new production-spec XUV500. Mahindra says the Funster e-SUV concept demonstrates the fun side of EVs. Though, on a more serious note, it also previews the possibilities of MESMA – the Mahindra Electric Scalable Modular Architecture. The Funster’s 59.2kWh battery pack provides a claimed range of 520km while its dual motors (one on each axle) put out a combined 313hp. Mahindra claims a 0-100kph time of under 5sec.
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Mahindra Funster concept image gallery
Skoda Vision IN
The Skoda Vision IN concept made its debut in the run-up to Auto Expo 2020 – and it sure made an impact! It’s an exceedingly important concept, as it previews Skoda’s made-for-India SUV, which is due in 2021. There is a resemblance to the Euro-spec Skoda Kamiq SUV (the two will have a lot in common) but there’s a lot more flash value on the concept – something that Indian buyers will like. The concept’s interior is also techy and cool. As an added bonus, the interior uses recycled (and even vegan) materials. The production-spec Vision IN will be powered by a 150hp, 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine.
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Skoda Vision IN concept image gallery
Haval Concept H
The Great Wall Motor Company has announced that it will commence its India operations in 2021. Out of the host of SUVs from the carmaker’s Haval brand on display, the Concept H drew the most eyeballs – and rightfully so. Making its global debut at the 2020 Auto Expo, the Haval Concept H previews a future midsize SUV from Great Wall Motor and stands out for its extroverted styling. The screen-rich interior is big on wow factor too.
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What was your favourite concept car from Auto Expo 2020? Let us know in the comments section below.
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