AWD Tata Sierra, Harrier EVs to Get Jaguar-Like Drive Mode Selector

Tata Motors recently filed a patent for a new drive mode selector likely to be offered in its upcoming all-wheel drive (AWD) electric SUVs – Harrier EV and Sierra EV. Further, the EVs will feature six different drive modes, expanding the capabilities of these SUVs beyond the current three modes – Normal, Wet and Rough – found in the Harrier diesel. Currently, Tata doesn’t offer AWD or 4x4 in any of its passenger vehicles.

Resemblance to the Jaguar F-Pace

The design of the new drive mode selector closely resembles the circular dial found in Jaguar models, such as the F-Pace SUV, which is interesting since Jaguar is owned by Tata Motors. This suggests that Tata might be borrowing Jaguar’s sophisticated Terrain Response technology, although there’s no official confirmation yet.

Drive Modes Explained

Drive Modes	Purpose
Normal	For everyday driving
Snow	For slippery, icy conditions
Sand or Desert	For loose, sandy environments
Rough or Rocky	For more extreme off-road trails
Mud and Ruts	Optimised for wet and uneven terrain
Individual/Manual	A customisable mode that can be tweaked to suit the driver’s preferences

This advanced drive mode system will help the dual-motor AWD models of these SUVs tackle more challenging terrains. As both EVs will be built on the Acti.ev platform which is also RWD compatible, Tata may offer it in the Sierra EV to give an ode to its lCE model (1991-2003). If executed, it will be the first time since the Tata Hexa that RWD will be offered, giving it a genuine off-roading edge.

Expected Powertrain, Battery and Range

Both the Tata Sierra EV and Harrier EV are expected to come with significant battery options as large as 80kWh. Buyers may have the option of choosing between a single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) version or a more powerful dual-motor AWD setup. With these configurations, the Harrier EV and Sierra EV are expected to deliver competitive driving ranges, likely stretching to 400-500 km on a full charge. 

Also, read Tata Punch, Curvv EVs to Get BaaS Option Like MG Windsor EV