The Tata Curvv.ev marks a significant step for Tata Motors as they delve deeper into the electric vehicle market. This stylish coupe SUV is not just another EV; it’s a pioneer in a segment poised to explode. With the Curvv, Tata has successfully transitioned a concept into a production-ready model, showcasing their design prowess once again.
The monsoon season, traditionally a peak period for SUV sales, is set to witness a surge in interest in electric vehicles. This EV has style and sustainability, is well-positioned to capitalise on this trend. As the year progresses, we can expect a flurry of electric and petrol-powered coupe-SUV offerings. However, for now, the Curvv.ev holds the distinction of being the first electric entrant in this burgeoning segment.
This EV also marks a strategic move by Tata Motors to expand its electric vehicle portfolio beyond the compact SUV segment. By venturing into this new budding coupe-SUV space, the company aims to attract a wider audience seeking a more stylish and dynamic driving experience.
The backdrop for our drive of the Tata Curvv.ev was nothing short of idyllic. The Aravalli Hills, cloaked in a thick blanket of monsoon clouds, cast a serene ambience over the lakeside setting. It was a far cry from the typical media drive, where lengthy presentations precede the driving experience. Instead, Tata Motors opted for a refreshing approach, providing a brief overview before handing over the keys. This unexpected simplicity was a welcome change of pace.
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Tata Motors has introduced its new key fob, a departure from the familiar design. The modern, weighty key unlocks a captivating light show as the car comes to life. The sequential illumination of the LED light bar adds a touch of dynamism, setting a premium tone.
The design is a testament to Tata’s evolving aesthetic. Its striking front fascia, featuring sleek LED headlamps and a bold grille, exudes a modern and confident character. The coupe-like silhouette adds a touch of sportiness, while the thoughtfully designed alloy wheels complete the stylish package. The rear LED taillights stretch across the width of the car, further enhancing its visual appeal. While there’s a resemblance to the Nexon EV at first glance, the Curvv.ev’s distinct proportions and design elements set it apart. Its called the Curvv but you don’t find too many curves on it other than the sloping coupe roof line.
Entering this EV one can’t help but notice the surprising absence of a cup holder—a detail that feels like an oversight in an otherwise meticulously designed cabin. While the minimalist design of the interior exudes a refined charm, the lack of a cup holder seems to take minimalism a step too far. It’s a bit of a disappointment to be left holding a hot cup of coffee with no convenient place to set it down, especially in a vehicle that otherwise prioritises comfort and user experience. The large 12-inch, centrally positioned touchscreen is the focal point, offering modern connectivity options. Complementing this is a clear digital instrument cluster. The inclusion of an ambient external sound alert is a commendable safety feature, particularly relevant in the Indian context.
The interior gets a range of amenities, including a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The focus on comfort is evident with features like an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and wireless charging. Safety is paramount, with six airbags, electronic stability control, and other essential safety features as standard.
The car also gets ambient lighting and an array of comfort features. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, but the ventilated seat control is frustratingly hidden. A dedicated touchscreen button, like many other manufacturers, would be more intuitive. Similarly, while the touchscreen handles several functions, a row of physical buttons below the AC vents controls charging, locking, and other climate settings. Although the physical blower and climate control switches are convenient, haptic touch buttons for the remaining controls would offer better visibility and feedback.
Its quite impresses with its practicality. The boot space is massive, offering 500 litres of cargo capacity. Fold down the rear seats, and that space expands to an impressive 973 litres, providing more than enough room for all your luggage, outdoor gear, or anything else you need to haul. Despite the minor inconvenience of the missing cup holder, the Curvv.ev’s interior design, premium feel, and exceptional practicality make it a standout in its class.
Tata Motors offers two battery pack options for the Curvv.ev: a 45kWh unit with a claimed range of 502 km and a 55kWh option with a range of 585 km. Both configurations provide ample power, with the 55kWh variant generating 165 bhp and 215 Nm of torque. While the urge to explore the car’s sporty side is tempting, range anxiety often prevails, making the Eco mode a preferred choice. Impressively, the range didn’t deplete rapidly, a positive departure from the typical behaviour of EVs in this price segment.
The driving experience is marked by refinement and a comfortable ride. The well-damped suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, and while the car’s weight is noticeable when pushed hard, it remains composed. The electric powertrain delivers smooth and linear acceleration, devoid of the jerky jolts often associated with electric vehicles.
The driving modes – City, Normal, and Sport – offer varying levels of responsiveness. The paddle shifters provide an intuitive way to adjust regenerative braking. The driving dynamics are a significant improvement over previous Tata EVs, showcasing the brand’s progress in this domain. Driving this EV through the Aravali hills was a thrill, thanks to the instant torque that transformed twisty roads into exhilarating rally stages.
A brief off-road excursion revealed the cars surprising capabilities. Its generous ground clearance and substantial 18-inch tires allowed it to confidently tackle a muddy incline. The electric powertrain’s instant torque proved invaluable in overcoming the challenging terrain. While the front-wheel-drive configuration was adequate for this light off-roading, the potential of an all-wheel-drive Harrier EV is undoubtedly enticing.
Returning to the tarmac, this EV demonstrated impressive high-speed stability. The car felt planted and composed even when pushed to higher speeds, effortlessly overtaking slower vehicles. The suspension effectively absorbed the impact of highway rumble strips, ensuring a comfortable and refined ride.
The Curvv.ev offers a lot of in-car entertainment options. The integration of popular streaming apps like Hotstar, Amazon Prime, and gaming platforms creates a compelling ecosystem for those waiting for their car to charge. Tata’s claim of charging the battery from 0 to 80 per cent in just 45 minutes is impressive and a significant improvement over current offerings in the Tata portfolio.
Experiencing a streaming service with the car’s JBL surround sound system was a unique and enjoyable experience. We indulged in a classic episode of The Simpsons, creating a surreal atmosphere. While we didn’t quite unravel any predictions that the Simpsons have gotten right over the ages, the overall experience highlighted the potential for in-car entertainment to evolve into a more immersive and engaging aspect of automotive ownership
The Tata Curvv.ev offers a compelling package with its stylish design, comfortable interiors, and advanced features, some ergonomic oversights, like the ventilated seat control placement, mar the overall experience. Priced competitively at Rs. 17.49 lakh onwards, Currently stands alone in its segment, offering buyers a unique and electrified choice. However, its success will hinge on factors beyond just pricing and features, including long-term reliability, charging infrastructure, and after-sales service. The Curvv.ev is a promising blueprint, but its execution will determine if it becomes a landmark in the electric vehicle landscape.
tay tuned as we gear up to drive the ICE version of the Curvv in a few weeks. We’re eager to see how the petrol-powered model compares to its electric sibling.
