Tata Safari.EV Seen Testing On Public Roads

The latest sighting, shared online by content creator Kochimachan, captures a heavily camouflaged Safari.EV test mule undergoing road tests in Bengaluru. Although much of the vehicle remains concealed beneath camouflage, the footage reveals several design details that distinguish the electric version from its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart.

At the front, the Safari.EV is expected to feature a redesigned fascia with a new grille section, likely incorporating a closed-off design typical of modern electric vehicles. The SUV will also receive a revised bumper and updated headlamp housings. LED daytime running lights (DRLs) are visible in the test vehicle, though a full-width connected light bar was not evident in this particular prototype.

Aerodynamic Wheels And EV-Specific Styling

The side profile remains largely similar to the standard Safari, retaining its upright stance, long roofline, and familiar window design. However, the electric SUV is expected to receive aerodynamically optimized alloy wheels designed to improve efficiency. These wheels were partially visible beneath the camouflage during testing.

Interestingly, the test vehicle also appeared to feature integrated side steps, a design element not currently available on the ICE-powered Safari. This could be one of the unique styling additions reserved for the EV variant.

Previous sightings suggest that the rear design will undergo only minor revisions. Expected changes include updated tail lamp graphics, subtle bumper modifications, and the addition of multiple ".EV" badges across the vehicle to emphasize its electric identity.

Familiar Design With Modern Electric Character

While Tata Motors is expected to introduce several EV-specific visual enhancements, the Safari.EV will retain the muscular proportions and commanding road presence that have made the Safari a popular choice among SUV buyers.

The extensive sharing of body panels and components with the standard Safari will help Tata Motors achieve better manufacturing efficiencies and economies of scale. The company is also likely to introduce exclusive exterior colour options that further differentiate the electric model from its ICE sibling.

Internally known by the codename "Tayrona," the Safari.EV is expected to make its official debut during the festive season later this year. Once launched, it will mark an important milestone for Tata Motors, as every major model in its portfolio will then be available in both internal combustion and electric forms.

Interior And Feature Expectations

Positioned above the Harrier.EV in Tata's electric vehicle lineup, the Safari.EV is expected to become the brand's flagship electric SUV.

Inside, buyers can expect a premium cabin packed with advanced technology and comfort features. Many of these features are likely to be shared with the recently launched Harrier.EV and the updated Safari. The SUV is expected to offer a large touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrumentation, connected car technology, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), premium upholstery, and multiple convenience features designed for family-oriented buyers.

Platform And Technology

The Safari.EV will be built on Tata Motors' advanced Acti.EV+ platform, the same architecture underpinning the Harrier.EV. This platform incorporates a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension setup with frequency-dependent dampers, aimed at delivering improved ride comfort and handling characteristics.

A major highlight of the platform is Tata's TiDAL (Tata Intelligent Digital Architecture Layer) electrical and electronic architecture. This enables the integration of advanced connected-car technologies, over-the-air software updates, enhanced ADAS functionality, and intelligent vehicle management systems.

Features such as a 540-degree surround-view camera system, low-speed cruise control, and a wide range of connected technologies are also expected to be available on the Safari.EV.

Battery Pack And Powertrain

Tata Motors has not yet disclosed official battery specifications for the Safari.EV. However, industry reports suggest that the SUV could borrow battery options from the Harrier.EV while potentially offering a larger 80 kWh battery pack for extended driving range.

The Safari.EV is expected to be offered in both Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations. Multiple terrain modes are also likely to be included, enhancing the SUV's capability across different driving conditions.

Expected Launch Timeline

With testing activity intensifying, the Tata Safari.EV appears to be moving closer to production readiness. Industry expectations point towards a festive-season launch later this year, positioning it as Tata Motors' most premium and technologically advanced electric SUV to date.

As competition in India's electric SUV segment continues to grow, the Safari.EV could play a significant role in strengthening Tata Motors' leadership in the country's EV market.