Tata Motors reveals new ATLAS platform for future cars, SUVs

Tata Motors has debuted an all-new vehicle architecture called ATLAS (Adaptive Tech Forward Lifestyle Architecture) with the Curvv coupe-SUV. Capable of supporting multiple body styles and powertrain options, this new platform will form the basis of Tata's future ICE vehicles. 

1. ATLAS becomes fifth platform for Tata Motors
2. Will underpin future ICE models
3. Allows for multiple body styles of varying dimensions 

The new ATLAS platform can cater to vehicles measuring between 3.9 meters and 4.6 meters in length with varying wheelbase and width. It supports multiple body styles, including coupe-SUVs such as the Curvv, along with SUVs, sedans and hatchbacks. 

Tata Motors is betting big on the safety and crashworthiness of this new platform. The ATLAS uses a continuous framework, rigid bulkhead-based structures and more robust mounting points for the suspension components and engine, all of which eliminate any abrupt changes in the load path. In the event of a crash, impact loads are distributed through multiple paths to enable a uniform and symmetric performance, claims Tata Motors. 

The ATLAS platform also gets an advanced electrical architecture and cloud platform. The Curvv includes an integrated cockpit domain controller to support multiple displays, a centralised body controller and over 24 PCUs.

As for powertrain options, it can support petrol and diesel engines with manual and automatic transmissions. What’s really interesting is that Tata claims genuine ‘SUV capability’ with this platform, allowing for 450mm of water wading capacity, 208mm of ground clearance and class-leading approach, departure and breakover angles. “It’s easily comparable to SUVs from two segments above,” said Mohan Savarkar, vice president and chief product officer of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited. 

Future Tata models like the next-gen Nexon compact SUV may move to this platform in the future. Prices for the Curvv petrol and diesel will be announced on Sepember 2.