Title: Tata's Tata Aeris: A Small Car with a Big Punch, Even Under 20 Tons of Gravel
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Title: Tata's Tata Aeris: A Small Car with a Big Punch, Even Under 20 Tons of Gr
In the world of eco-friendly vehicles, Gasoline-Liquid Petroleum (GLP) and Gas Natural Comprimido (GNC) systems were once the most affordable way to own an ECO-labeled car. However, with the rise of hybrids, these technologies have fallen out of favor, although some options still remain. If you thought a GNC system wasn't reliable, what Tata Motors has done with its new Tata Aeris might change your mind.
You may not be familiar with this Indian car. The Tata Aeris is a compact three-box sedan, just 3.99 meters long with a 2.45-meter wheelbase, which has recently hit the market in its home country at a price of 529,000 rupees, roughly €5,000. Despite its small size, it boasts a 419-liter trunk. The Aeris is an update of a more veteran model, the Tigor, which has been on the market since 2017 with redesigns in 2020 and 2025. It incorporates some aesthetic changes compared to the model it replaces, new wheel designs, and more equipment.
Practicality abounds in the Tata Aeris, even with its GNC motor. Higher-end trims come with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster, wireless dual smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera integrated into the dashboard, ventilated front seats, and rear air conditioning outlets. Even the base model comes with six airbags as standard, along with features like blind-spot monitoring available on the top trim.
Built on the improved Tata XAlpha platform, the Tata Aeris is available with two 1.2-liter atmospheric engines, one gasoline and one GNC-compatible. The former produces 85 horsepower, while the latter delivers 75 horsepower. Both send power to the front wheels via a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.
To demonstrate the structural integrity of the model and the reliability of the GNC system, Tata subjected the Aeris to various strength tests. After navigating deep water and driving over gravel, a dump truck unloaded 20 tons of gravel and debris onto the car's roof, completely burying it. Once the debris was cleared, the roof was slightly dented and the windows shattered, but the interior remained intact, the doors opened, and the vehicle started and drove away under its own power. While the 20 tons of gravel fell gradually, not in one impact, the stunt effectively conveyed the message to the target audience.
The Tata Aeris is now available for order in India, with the first deliveries scheduled for October 11. Prices start at 529,000 rupees, or approximately €5,000. With its compact size, GNC option, and impressive strength test results, the Tata Aeris is a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable, eco-friendly vehicle.