Tata MegaPixel unveiled at Geneva

Tata Motors have unveiled its Megapixel concept at the Geneva motor show. The Megapixel “is the result of the progress we have made on the Pixel”, according to Tata Motors’ managing director, Prakash Telang.

While a conventional three-cylinder turbodiesel engine powered the Pixel concept showcased at Geneva last year, the Megapixel is driven by four electric motors, one mounted in each wheel. They are powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery pack that helps give the Megapixel an all-electric range of 86km. The batteries can be recharged using an induction charging system. When electric power is depleted, a 30bhp 325cc single cylinder petrol motor kicks in to extend the range up to over 900km. It can reach a maximum speed of 110kph.

One of the Pixel’s most impressive features was its turning circle of just 5.2 metres. Despite the Megapixel’s more complex drivetrain, the turning circle is a still-impressive 5.6 metres. While the fundamental design of the Megapixel looks more production ready than before, some more elaborate concept car features are incorporated.

See Tata MegaPixel image gallery here

Unlike the scissor-door Pixel, the Megapixel features double sliding doors on each side to boost cabin access. The MegaPixel has also been designed to accommodate a wide range of power train options which include hybrid and full-electric sources. The absence of B-pillars results in a spacious, easily accessible four-seat cabin, which boasts even more space in the floor areas as the seats are cantilevered on the centre tunnel.

A smartphone can be mounted and full integrated into the front cabin, and a large touchscreen sits in the centre console to control the interior’s major functions. 

The next generation Nano which is expected to go on sale in Europe by 2015 could take its styling cues from the MegaPixel which was designed entirely in-house by Tata Motors's European design studios. The next-gen Nano is also likely to sport a 950cc, three-cylinder petrol motor which is under development and a state-of-the-art diesel that Tata Motors has already signed off for production.