Tata Motors is gearing up to expand its electric vehicle portfolio with the launch of the Tata Safari EV during the festive season of 2026. Positioned as the brand’s flagship electric SUV, the upcoming model will also mark Tata’s first-ever three-row electric SUV in India.
Once launched, the Safari EV will sit above the Harrier EV and complete Tata’s strategy of offering both ICE and EV options across its SUV lineup.
Platform & Powertrain: Borrowing from Harrier EV
The Safari EV will be based on Tata’s acti.ev+ architecture, the same platform that underpins the Harrier EV. However, like the Harrier, it is not a ground-up EV, but rather an electrified version of an existing ICE model.
Internally codenamed “Tayrona”, the Safari EV will share most of its core components with the Harrier EV, enabling a faster development cycle.
Expected Battery & Motor Options:
- 65kWh battery (RWD)
- 75kWh battery (RWD & AWD)
- Dual-motor AWD option likely on higher variants
Expected Range (ARAI-claimed estimates):
- ~600km (75kWh RWD)
- ~590km (75kWh AWD)
- ~520km (65kWh RWD)
Since the Safari is larger and heavier than the Harrier, the final range figures are expected to be slightly lower.
Charging & Hardware:
- Up to 100kW DC fast charging support
- Multi-link rear suspension
- Frequency-dependent dampers for improved comfort
Design Changes: Subtle EV Identity
- Closed-off front grille
- Revised bumpers
- Aero-optimised alloy wheels
- EV-specific badging
Dimensions are expected to remain unchanged, ensuring the same road presence and spacious cabin.
Interior & Features: Tech Upgrade with TiDAL
Key Expected Features:
- OTA (over-the-air) updates
- 540-degree surround view camera
- Advanced Level 2 ADAS
- Auto park assist
- Off-road assist (low-speed cruise control)
- DrivePay (UPI-based in-car payments)
- Summon mode for tight parking situations
These additions will make the Safari EV one of the most tech-loaded SUVs in its segment.
Launch Timeline, Price & Rivals
Tata Motors is expected to begin production by August 2026, with the official launch scheduled around the festive season (likely October–November).
Expected Price:
- ₹22.5 lakh to ₹30 lakh (ex-showroom)
Key Rival:
- Mahindra XEV 9S
The Safari EV will directly compete with upcoming premium electric SUVs, offering a unique proposition with its three-row seating and long-range capability.
Final Thoughts
The Tata Safari EV represents a major step forward for Tata Motors in India’s EV space. By combining the practicality of a 7-seater SUV with modern EV technology, Tata is targeting families looking to transition to electric mobility without compromising on space or features.
With strong underpinnings, impressive range expectations, and a feature-rich package, the Safari EV could become a game-changer in India’s premium electric SUV segment once it arrives later this year.
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