The Tata Safari EV has been spotted on Indian roads, providing the strongest indication that Tata’s three-row electric SUV is moving towards production. The test mule was spotted without a tailpipe and with a rear suspension system reminiscent of the Harrier EV which are both good signs of its electric nature.
The Safari EV will be built on the same acti.ev+ platform and powertrain as the Harrier EV with the same code name, Tayrona. This is not a new electric design, but rather an ICE-to-EV conversion of the existing Safari body. It will be the brand’s first three-row EV in India and once launched it will be the brand’s new flagship electric vehicle above Tata’s Harrier EV.
The Timeline and Price
The Safari EV is expected to go into production around August 2026 with the company planning to launch it around the festive season, probably near Diwali. These dates are expected, not confirmed by Tata Motors yet.
As far as pricing is concerned, industry estimates indicate the Safari EV to be priced in the range of Rs 22.5 lakh to Rs 30 lakh ex-showroom. The Safari EV is expected to be priced at a premium as the current Harrier EV is priced from Rs 21.49 lakh to Rs 28.99 lakh, and the EV is getting an extra seating row.
Powertrain Expectations
The lower variants will probably be rear-wheel-drive while the higher trims will be equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system for improved off-road and towing performance. Details about the battery size, range, and charging have not been disclosed.
Why This Matters
Tata will be able to provide all the existing models of its SUVs with both petrol/diesel and fully electric variants with the Safari EV. The company also anticipates that the Safari EV will contribute about 1,000 to 1,500 units to its monthly sales after it is introduced. The closest competitor will be the Mahindra XEV 9S which is still to be launched and Tata may have a head start in the three-row electric SUV segment in India.
