Tata Motors targets 1 lakh cars a month from FY2028, with new SUVs and EVs planned

Tata Motors has begun major preparations to expand its passenger vehicle business. The company is reported to be aiming to make 1 lakh cars a month from financial year 2028. This could help raise its annual production capacity. Several models, from the new-generation Nexon to the Avinya and the Safari EV, could be part of the company's plans.

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility began production at the former Ford plant in Sanand in January 2024. Preparing the plant for future models took about 12 months and involved the necessary changes. The Ranjangaon plant near Pune is also growing in importance. Under the collaboration with Stellantis, the plant is likely to be readied for a new Jeep SUV project called J1J, to be built on an architecture based on the Tata Sierra. Petrol and electric versions are planned, and a left-hand-drive model for overseas markets is also under consideration.

Among the company's upcoming models, the next generation of the Nexon is drawing particular attention. Known internally as "Garud", the SUV may have a more boxy body, a flat roofline and a differently designed rear. Changes such as a new touchscreen, updated climate control and an electronic parking brake are also expected. However, the company has not made final details of these features public.

Tata's premium Avinya range is also under development. The Avinya X could be the first production model of this family. A 7-seater Safari EV could also strengthen the company's electric portfolio. The SUV is said to offer a choice of single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive. Work is also under way on the next-generation Harrier and Safari.

Tata Motors wants to have about 15 models in its passenger vehicle portfolio by the end of the decade. The plan is said to include 6 new nameplates and more than 20 model updates. The target is to raise the share of electric vehicles in total car sales to more than 30% by financial year 2031. Between financial years 2027 and 2031, the company is planning to invest about Rs 37,500 crore to Rs 40,000 crore, and is trying to take annual sales above 12 lakh.