The Tata Safari has long stood as a symbol of rugged versatility on Indian roads. From mountainous terrains to urban streets, its imposing stance and spacious interiors have made it a family favorite. Now, Tata Motors is gearing up to take the legacy into a sustainable future with the all-electric Safari EV. This new avatar blends the traditional SUV character with cutting-edge electric technology, offering a zero-emission driving experience without compromising on performance or presence.
Building on the foundations laid by the Harrier EV, the Safari EV will serve as a flagship SUV in Tata’s expanding electric portfolio. Designed for families, off-road adventurers, and environmentally conscious drivers alike, this three-row electric SUV signals the brand’s serious push into premium EV territory.
Expected Launch and Pricing
Initial industry estimates suggested the Safari EV would launch in August 2025, but more recent updates place the likely launch date between April and May 2026. This extended timeline allows Tata to refine its design, technology, and infrastructure around the vehicle, ensuring it enters the market with a polished finish.
In terms of pricing, the Safari EV is expected to start at around ₹26 lakh (ex-showroom) and could go up to ₹35 lakh for top-end variants. These price points will position the SUV as a mid- to high-tier offering within the electric vehicle segment—ideal for families seeking a capable electric SUV without entering the luxury price bracket.
Design and Exterior Enhancements
Visually, the Safari EV will retain the muscular profile and bold stance that the nameplate is known for. Expect familiar design cues such as the sculpted bonnet, high ground clearance, roof rails, and pronounced shoulder lines. However, it will also introduce subtle EV-specific updates.
These changes may include a closed-off grille to enhance aerodynamics, redesigned LED headlamps and DRLs, and unique alloy wheel designs optimized for better airflow. Special trims like a “Stealth Edition” may feature all-black badging and matte finishes for a sportier look. Colors such as white, red, black, and a matte grey variant are expected to be offered.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Safari EV aims to deliver a premium and futuristic cabin experience. Following the layout of the Harrier EV and the latest ICE Safari, it will include a twin-cockpit design with soft-touch materials, brushed aluminum accents, and customizable ambient lighting.
The SUV will offer both 6- and 7-seat layouts, catering to joint families or travelers who require ample passenger space. Features like leatherette upholstery, ventilated front and second-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control will enhance passenger comfort.
A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system will take center stage on the dashboard, paired with a 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display. Connectivity features will include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, voice assistance, wireless charging, and OTA (Over-the-Air) updates.
Battery, Range, and Powertrain
Though official specs are yet to be confirmed, expectations are based on the architecture of the Harrier EV. The Safari EV will likely come with two battery options: a 60 kWh and a 75 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) pack. These are expected to deliver a range between 500 to 627 kilometers (MIDC cycle), making it one of the longest-range EVs in its category.
The powertrain may be offered in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. A dual-motor setup producing up to 390 bhp and 504 Nm of torque is anticipated in the AWD variant, enabling both brisk performance and rough terrain handling.
Charging Capabilities
Charging convenience will be a significant focus for the Safari EV. It will likely support:
- DC Fast Charging: Up to 120 kW capability, allowing a 20–80% top-up in just around 25 minutes.
- Home AC Charging: Options for a 3.3 kW charger as standard or a faster 7.2 kW AC wall box charger.
These charging solutions will make the Safari EV a practical choice for daily use as well as long-distance travel.
Technology and Safety Features
The Safari EV will be loaded with advanced safety and technology features. Tata is expected to include its Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), offering:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Traffic sign recognition
Other safety enhancements will include up to seven airbags, 360-degree surround-view cameras, electronic stability control, tyre pressure monitoring, hill start assist, and electronic parking brake.
Given Tata’s recent focus on safety ratings, the Safari EV is expected to score highly in GNCAP or Bharat NCAP crash tests, although official ratings will only be revealed post-launch.
Market Positioning and Competitors
With the Safari EV, Tata is stepping into a growing segment of three-row electric SUVs. It will find itself competing against:
- Mahindra XUV.e9 and XUV.e8 (expected in the same price bracket)
- Hyundai Creta EV (though this may be a 5-seater alternative)
- BYD eMAX 7 (a larger Chinese rival)
- MG ZS EV and the upcoming MG Cloud EV
- Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 7 (internationally spec’d but potentially arriving later)
Within its own lineup, the Safari EV will sit above the Punch EV, Nexon EV, and Curvv EV—offering flagship-level performance, space, and tech.
Why Safari EV is a Game-Changer
The electric Safari is not just a model upgrade—it’s a strategic move by Tata to electrify its most iconic SUV while retaining its practicality and off-road-ready DNA. Here’s why it matters:
- Sustainability: With zero tailpipe emissions, the Safari EV contributes to cleaner urban air and lower CO₂ footprints.
- Utility: With seating for seven and a range of over 500 km, it addresses real-world family and travel needs.
- Affordability: Positioned well below most international EV rivals, it offers high value without compromising on features.
- Legacy Electrified: Safari has an emotional connect in Indian households, and its EV version promises to carry that forward into a greener future.
Variants and Trim Structure
Although not officially disclosed, Tata is likely to introduce the Safari EV in multiple trims, following its recent EV strategy:
- Base Variant: Rear-wheel drive, 60 kWh battery, essential features.
- Mid Variant: Larger battery (75 kWh), AWD option, added tech and sunroof.
- Top-End (Stealth Edition): Matte finishes, exclusive badging, complete ADAS suite, luxury features.
Naming conventions may move away from the traditional “XM/XZ” tags and instead use more expressive names like “Fearless,” “Empowered,” or “Creative”—a trend seen in Tata’s latest EV launches.
FAQs – Quick Glance
- When will the Safari EV launch? Expected in April–May 2026.
- What is the price range? Estimated ₹26–35 lakh (ex-showroom).
- What is the expected driving range? Between 500 and 627 km, depending on the variant.
- Will there be AWD? Yes, higher trims are likely to feature a dual-motor AWD setup.
- How fast can it charge? Fast charging up to 120 kW can take it from 20% to 80% in around 25 minutes.
Conclusion – The Future, Electrified
The Tata Safari EV is shaping up to be a landmark launch for both Tata Motors and the Indian EV ecosystem. It combines the core strengths of the Safari legacy—space, power, comfort, and presence—with the modern needs of electric mobility. Positioned at the intersection of affordability and innovation, it may just become the go-to choice for families ready to embrace electric without giving up the SUV lifestyle.
As the launch nears, all eyes will be on Tata Motors to see how the Safari EV performs in real-world scenarios. If the company can deliver on its promises, the electric Safari could truly redefine what Indian families expect from a modern SUV.
