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 4×2 and 4×4 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 4×2 as well as 4×4 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.