Indian automaker Tata proudly showed off its oddly-named Cliffrider concept, a "multi-utility lifestyle vehicle" that saw its world premiere in Geneva. Based on a modified version of the company's Crossover Concept (previously unveiled at the last GIAS), the Cliffrider works hard to incorporate just about every contemporary 'crossover' design convention into a single vehicle, with mixed results.
Dominated by odd-looking slash-cut headlamps and a large grille, the front clip betrays shades of Lexus' RX SUV from certain angles. What looks like a longish wheelbase reveals a the Cliffrider to be a four-door SUV with a pickup bed in the back, complete with large roll hoops and a high box height. Front doors are conventionally hinged, while back seat passengers gain access via ever-popular suicide doors.
Designed to be produced with a gasoline V6 and 'next generation Common Rail diesel power trains,' the Tata Cliffrider will likely see production within the next three years in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.
(More pictures and information as they become available. Hit the jump for the full press release!)
[Source: Tata Motors]
Tata Motors unveils the Tata Cliffrider Concept
Tata Motors, India 's largest automobile company, unveiled the Tata Cliffrider, a “Multi-Utility Lifestyle Vehicle” Concept, at the 76 th Geneva Auto Show.
The Tata Cliffrider is derived from the Tata “Crossover” C oncept, which was originally unveiled at the last Geneva Auto Show. Sporting a silhouette like a high-slung sedan, the Tata Cliffrider is a dynamic package that combines lifestyle and sporty usage with the practical functionality of a pick-up truck. The Concept showcases Tata Motors' idea of how a utility product could evolve in future for the discerning customer through a truly multi-purpose, multi-terrain usage of a car.
The exterior styling cues carry forward the visual theme of the Tata Crossover. The door trims show a continuity of form due to the disguised central pillar, with the front door hinged at its leading edge and the rear door at its trailing edge, allowing better access to the rear seats. The interior emphasises space and elegance with an innovative ventilation system and driver-oriented instrumentation stylishly packaged in the steering column. Long beam lights mounted on the roll bar and a load-body suited to carry mountain bikes, skis or snowboards reinforce the “fun and adventure” image. It can also carry goods in the load tray which can be hidden from view as well as protected from weather conditions by a sliding cover.
Configured to be fitted with a range of Euro IV engines, including a V6 Petrol and next generation Common Rail diesel power trains, it would offer multiple airbags, ABS, Traction Control, Navigation Control and a host of other contemporary features. The Tata Cliffrider would be available in 4x2 as well as 4x4 versions.
Also on display is the Tata Crossover, further updated from the Concept that Tata Motors unveiled last year. The Indica Hatchback, Indigo Sedan, Indigo Station Wagon and the Safari DiCOR Sports Utility Vehicle are also being showcased at the ongoing exposition.
Mr. Ravi Kant, Managing Director, Tata Motors, said, “ The Tata Cliffrider Concept vehicle further demonstrates Tata Motors' commitment to innovate and address new product categories.”
About Tata Motors
Tata Motors, the flagship company of the Tata Group, is India 's largest automobile company, with revenues of US$ 4.7 billion in 2004-05. With over 3 million Tata vehicles plying in India , it is the leader by far in commercial vehicles and the second largest in passenger cars. It is also the world's fifth largest medium and heavy truck manufacturer and the second largest medium and heavy bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are already being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and South East Asia and in Australia . The company acquired the Daewoo Commercial Vehicles Company, Korea 's second largest truck maker, in 2004. In 2005, it acquired a 21% stake in Hispano Carrocera, the reputed Spanish bus and coach manufacturer.
The Tata Group is one of India 's largest and most respected business conglomerates, with a leadership position in Engineering, Materials, Energy, Consumer Products, Services and Communication, Hotels and Information Systems with revenues in 2004-05 of $17.8 billion.
More shots of the Tata Cliffrider available here, thanks to GlobalAutoIndex.com.
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