Tata Motors has taken a bold step forward with the Nexon EV 45, a new variant equipped with a 45kWh battery pack that promises a longer range and better features compared to its 40.5kWh predecessor.
While the ARAI-certified range of 489km has generated plenty of buzz, the real-world performance of this electric SUV paints a more practical picture for everyday users.
This in-depth test explores how the Nexon EV 45 fares under typical driving conditions, focusing on its efficiency, practicality, and features.
Testing Methodology: How We Conducted the Range Test?
To ensure accuracy, the vehicle was tested on a predefined mixed route comprising both city and highway driving. We followed the below parameters:
Default Drive Mode: City
Air Conditioning: Set to 23–24°C with fan speed at 2-3 or auto
Tyre Pressure: Maintained as per Tata Motors’ recommendation
Battery Regeneration Setting: Level 1
Weather Conditions: External temperatures ranged from 32°C to 37°C
The goal was to mimic real-world driving behavior without attempting to maximize efficiency artificially. We recorded the battery consumption and range under these typical conditions.
Claimed vs. Actual Range: The Numbers Unveiled
Tata Motors officially claims that the Nexon EV 45 can achieve:
489km on the modified ARAI cycle
350–370km in real-world conditions (C75 range estimate)
Here’s how it performed during our test:
Starting Charge: 100%
The displayed range was 284km, which was slightly disappointing.
Ending Mileage: 329.7km
The car achieved 94-89% of the C75 claim.
Despite the initial estimate, the vehicle comfortably covered over 320km in real-world conditions, with battery consumption averaging 146Wh/km. This places the Nexon EV 45 among the top contenders in the eSUV segment for reliable range performance.
Driving Observations: Efficiency & Practical Features
The Nexon EV 45 showcased a mix of efficiency, safety, and innovative features during the test:
Energy Consumption & Efficiency: The car’s energy consumption ranged from 155Wh/km on city roads to 140Wh/km on highways, with an overall average of 146Wh/km.
The efficiency highlights its ability to balance performance and energy usage effectively.
Battery Management: Limp Mode Activation: At 10% battery, the power delivery was reduced, capping the speed to 50–60km/h.
AC Cut-Off: The air conditioning stopped working at around 7% battery, conserving energy for driving.
At 0% Charge: Even when the battery reached zero, systems like the infotainment screen and instrument cluster remained active, allowing for easy towing.
External Temperature Impact: Despite temperatures peaking at 37°C during the day, the range performance remained consistent.
Charging Performance: Time & Convenience
After the range test, the Nexon EV 45 was charged using a 7.2kW office charger, taking approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes for a full charge. This is consistent with Tata Motors' claims for its onboard charging system, making overnight charging a practical option for most users.
Notable Features of the Nexon EV 45
Beyond its range, the Nexon EV 45 is packed with features designed to enhance convenience and safety:
Remote Parking Assistance: Operate the vehicle using just the key fob to park in tight spots.
Regenerative Braking: Level 1 settings ensure smooth battery recovery during deceleration.
Driving Modes: City mode prioritizes efficiency without compromising performance.
Infotainment & Connectivity: The advanced system provides seamless navigation and entertainment.
A Real-World Performer
The Tata Nexon EV 45 lives up to its promise of a practical, efficient, and stylish electric SUV. While the real-world range of 329.7km falls short of the ARAI-certified 489km, it aligns closely with Tata’s C75 estimate of 350–370km.
With a combination of reliability, advanced features, and energy efficiency, the Nexon EV 45 is a strong contender for anyone looking to switch to electric mobility. Its performance under realistic conditions highlights why it’s a worthy investment in India’s evolving EV landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates and tests as Tata Motors continues to redefine electric mobility in the country.
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