Tata Harrier EV AWD: Conquering Terrains with Electric Power
The Tata Harrier EV is not just another electric SUV; it’s a game-changer in the Indian automotive scene. With its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, dubbed QWD (Quad Wheel Drive), this electric beast marks Tata Motors’ bold return to 4×4 territory after a long hiatus. I recently came across an exciting showcase of its off-road prowess, and let me tell you, it’s impressive! This blog dives into the Harrier EV’s off-road capabilities, its cutting-edge features, and why it’s a standout in the electric SUV market. Buckle up, because this ride is electrifying!
A New Era of Electric Off-Roading
Tata Motors has taken a big leap with the Harrier EV, introducing its first all-wheel-drive electric SUV built on the advanced Acti.ev Plus platform. Unlike its diesel-powered sibling, which is front-wheel-drive only, the Harrier EV’s dual-motor setup (one motor per axle) delivers power to all four wheels, making it a true 4×4 contender. This isn’t just about city cruising; the Harrier EV is designed to tackle rugged terrains, from rocky paths to sandy dunes.
The SUV was put through its paces on a curated off-road course near the Buddh International Circuit, and it handled everything thrown its way with finesse. Whether it’s climbing steep inclines or navigating slushy pits, this electric SUV proves that going green doesn’t mean compromising on adventure.
Key Off-Road Features of the Tata Harrier EV
The Harrier EV comes loaded with features that make it a capable off-roader. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Six Terrain Modes: Choose from Normal, Snow/Grass, Mud Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Custom to optimize power distribution and traction for different surfaces. The Sand mode, for instance, adjusts the power balance between the front and rear axles to glide through shallow sand pits effortlessly.
- Off-Road Assist: Think of this as an off-road cruise control. You can set a speed as low as 5 km/h, allowing the SUV to maintain momentum over tricky terrains like rocky paths while you focus on steering.
- Hill-Hold Assist: On a daunting 34-degree incline, the Harrier EV held its ground mid-climb, showcasing its ability to stay steady on steep slopes.
- All-Independent Suspension: With frequency-dependent dampers, the Harrier EV offers a smoother ride than its diesel counterpart, which uses a twist-beam rear suspension. This translates to less cabin movement, even on uneven surfaces.
- Approach and Departure Angles: With a 25.3-degree approach angle, 16.6-degree ramp breakover angle, and 26.4-degree departure angle, the Harrier EV can handle challenging obstacles like the “camel’s hump” with ease, though the battery pack did make slight contact with the ground on larger humps.
| Feature | Description |
| Terrain Modes | Normal, Snow/Grass, Mud Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, Custom |
| Off-Road Assist | Low-speed cruise control (down to 5 km/h) for steady momentum |
| Hill-Hold Assist | Prevents rollback on steep inclines, tested on a 34-degree slope |
| Suspension | All-independent with frequency-dependent dampers for enhanced ride comfort |
| Ground Clearance | Approximately 200mm (unladen, exact figure not disclosed) |
Performance That Packs a Punch
The Harrier EV QWD is powered by a 75 kWh battery pack, delivering a combined 390 bhp and 504 Nm of torque. This setup allows the SUV to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds when in Boost mode, making it not only a capable off-roader but also a zippy performer on the road. The MIDC-certified range stands at an impressive 622 km for the AWD variant, with real-world estimates between 480-505 km based on Tata’s internal C75 testing cycle.
For those who don’t need the AWD thrills, the Harrier EV also offers a 65 kWh battery pack with a single motor powering the rear wheels, producing 238 hp. The RWD 75 kWh variant boasts a slightly higher range of 627 km (MIDC-certified). Charging is a breeze, too, with a 120 kW DC fast charger capable of juicing up from 20-80% in just 25 minutes, or adding 250 km of range in 15 minutes.
Off-Road Performance Highlights
- Rocky Paths: The Off-Road Assist kept the Harrier EV moving steadily over a carpet of rocks, maintaining control without jolting the cabin.
- Steep Inclines: The SUV tackled a 34-degree incline with grace, and the hill-hold assist ensured no rollback, even mid-climb.
- Sand Pits: In Sand mode, the Harrier EV glided through shallow sand pits, with the electronics ensuring minimal slippage.
- Slush Pits: Even without Off-Road Assist, the Harrier EV maintained progress through muddy terrain, defying expectations of sliding.
Design and Tech: Modern Yet Rugged
The Harrier EV’s design stays true to its diesel sibling but adds EV-specific touches like a closed-off grille, revised bumpers, and 19-inch aero-optimized alloy wheels. Available in four colors—Nainital Nocturne, Empowered Oxide, Pure Grey, and Pristine White—plus a sleek Stealth Edition with blacked-out elements, it’s as stylish as it is tough.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the diesel Harrier’s layout but elevates the experience with a 14.5-inch Samsung Neo QLED touchscreen—a segment-first—and a 12.25-inch digital driver’s display. The TiDAL (Tata Intelligent Digital Architecture Layer) powers connected features like over-the-air updates, voice commands, and a 540-degree surround camera with a Transparent mode that shows what’s under the vehicle, a boon for off-roading.
Other creature comforts include:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- 10-speaker JBL sound system with Dolby Atmos
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) charging
- Summon mode for remote parking
Safety First
Safety is a priority, with the Harrier EV built on a BNCAP 5-star-ready body structure using 57.5% special-grade steel for 62% better torsional stiffness. It comes equipped with:
- Seven airbags (six standard)
- Level 2 ADAS with 22 features, including adaptive cruise control and lane assist
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with i-VBAC
- HD rearview mirror with dashcam functionality
Why the Harrier EV Stands Out
The Harrier EV isn’t just Tata’s first 4×4 in years; it’s a bold statement in the electric SUV segment. Its dual-motor AWD system, inspired by Land Rover’s legendary off-road tech, combined with a long range and fast-charging capabilities, makes it a versatile choice for adventure seekers and city dwellers alike. Priced starting at ₹21.49 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes with the likes of the Mahindra XEV 9e and Hyundai Creta EV, but its AWD capability gives it an edge for those craving off-road thrills.
Tata Harrier EV AWD navigating a rocky off-road trail with a scenic mountainous backdrop.
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Wrapping Up: The Future of Electric Adventure
The Tata Harrier EV is more than just an electric SUV—it’s a symbol of how far electric vehicles have come. With its all-wheel-drive system, robust off-road features, and premium tech, it’s ready to take on both urban jungles and untamed trails. Whether you’re climbing steep inclines or cruising through the city, this SUV delivers power, style, and sustainability in one sleek package. Ready to explore the unbeaten path? The Harrier EV is waiting to electrify your adventures.
What do you think about the Tata Harrier EV’s off-road capabilities? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this post with fellow EV enthusiasts! Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of electric vehicles, and let’s drive toward a greener future together!
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