Tata Motors air compressed car Airpod may be launched in 2015
Published On Feb 05, 2015 11:11 AM By Firdaus
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A few years ago Tata Motors entered an alliance with French firm – Motor Development International (MDI) to develop a car that would run on compressed air. Since much wasn’t spoken about this car, we assumed that Tata has scrapped this project, but lately after a report published in Business Standard, it is revealed that this car also called the Airpod is in its final production stages and the Indian manufacturer may launch it in the second half of 2015.
The agreement between Tata and MDI has covered two phases of the activity the first being enclosing technology transfer along with proof of technical concept; while the second involved completing the compressed engine into a vehicle and for stationary applications. Commenting on this progress Mr. Timothy Leverton, President and Head, Advanced and Product Engineering, Tata Motors said: “This is a long-term project and a tricky and challenging one. But these are areas we need to invest in to make sure that we can innovate and manufacture disruptive products in the future”.
The air compressed car isn’t a new idea, but it has been considered vain because of several issues including low engine temperatures. In spite of these hurdles Tata Motors has been determined to build an engine that works on compressed air and throws out air from the exhaust pipes.
The Airpod will have a joystick instead of a steering wheel for maneuvering and will be able to accommodate three adults and one child. It will offer a range of 200 kilometers with a top speed of 80kmph and the car’s tank can be filled at any compressed air station.
The report mentions that it is likely the Airpod will be launched in the second half of 2015 thought Tata Motors’ US franchisee – Zero Pollution Motors however it arrival in India is uncertain.
Source: Business Standard
