Tata Motors Unveils Production Version of the Nano

Much was already known about the Nano's spec sheet, or lack thereof. Base models do without power steering, power brakes, or even door pockets. A radio, airbags, ABS and even an opening rear hatch is unavailable on any of three Nano trim levels: Base, CX, and LX.

A 624cc inline two-cylinder is the only engine offered, though plans exist for a diesel model to join the range (possibly later this year). A more powerful model — with additional safety and convenience features — is expected to be sold in Europe by 2011. The Nano could also make an appearance stateside.

"We believe that within the next three or so years, we should be able to meet U.S. requirements," Ratan Tata, chairman of the Tata Group, said when asked if the Nano could be engineered to meet American safety and emissions standards.

One of the surprises revealed during the back-to-back press conferences was news that deliveries of the Nano will not begin before mid-summer. This comes after what has already been more than six months of production delays. Escalating political protests over Tata's land acquisition methods forced the closure of the factory originally slated to build the car.

A new plant is now being built in the eastern states of Gujarat, but Tata officials acknowledge that demand for the Nano will surpass supply until the factory is fully operational by early 2010. For now, the Nano will be built at a rate of 3,000-4,000 per month at one of Tata's existing factories.

Applications to buy the Nano can be submitted from April 9-25. The first 100,000 Nano buyers will be chosen randomly by computer. Tata will then provide a "price guarantee" to avoid price gouging or greedy speculators looking to cash in on the world's cheapest car.

Inside Line says: The ultra-cheap Nano is officially on sale, almost. Indian customers still have to wait several months, and for U.S. customers, it will be years — at least. — Nick Kurczewski, Contributor