Is New Tata Nano the World’s Most Fuel Efficient Petrol Car?

Struggling Indian car company Tata Motors has announced the commercial launch of the Tata Nano, the most fuel-efficient petrol-driven car in India, and quite possibly the world.

The Tata Nano, keenly anticipated across India since its unveiling early last year, is capable of an incredible 23.6km/litre (55.5 mpg) and ultra-low carbon emissions of 101 g/km, one of the lowest in India. Oh, and with prices starting at about 100,000 rupees ($2,050), it’s also the cheapest car in the world.

Speaking at the launch, Chairman Ratan N. Tata said, “The Nano represents the spirit of breaking conventional barriers. It is to the credit of the team at Tata Motors that a car once thought impossible by the world is now a reality. I hope it will provide safe, affordable, four-wheel transportation to families who till now have not been able to own a car.

The four-seater Nano is powered by a 2-cylinder engine capable of delivering a top speed of 105 km/h (65 mph), more than enough for many of India’s congested cities.

The cars, on display across India from April 1st, are currently being manufactured at the company’s Pantnagar plant in Uttarakhand in limited numbers. A new dedicated plant, at Sanand in Gujarat, will be ready in 2010 with an annualised capacity of 350,000 cars.

Writer’s Note - Tata are claiming that the Tata Nano will become the most fuel efficient car in India. I’d be really interested to hear your comments on whether or not it will also be the most efficient in the world, or whether you’re aware of any more frugal cars in the US or elsewhere?