New T1N platform designed and developed for both IC engines and full-electric drive.
05 Feb 2020 | 16567 Views | By Autocar Pro News Desk
Pune-based automotive major Force Motors has showcased three grounds-up new vehicle platforms at the Auto Expo. The standout feature is the next-generation shared mobility platform unveiled a fortnight ago in Pune.
This is an Autocar Pro Plus article. Subscribe to continue reading.
Pune-based automotive major Force Motors has showcased three grounds-up new vehicle platforms at the Auto Expo. The standout feature is the next-generation shared mobility platform unveiled a fortnight ago in Pune.
Codenamed T1N, this new platform has been simultaneously designed and developed for both Internal Combustion Engines and 100 percent electric drive. Both the diesel and the 100 percent electric variant of the Traveller van are on display. The T1N is the first vehicle in this category in the country offering crash compliance with air bags for driver and co-driver.
The T1N platform has been developed with global aspirations, it is design protected for plying in select markets of Middle East, Africa, ASEAN and South America where the T1N is expected to be an excellent value proposition vis a vis high premium products from Europe, Far East and USA.
Also, on display are two buses built on the next generation modular monocoque bus platform which has been fully developed in house by the R&D team at Force Motors. On account of its monocoque construction, these buses are the lightest and yet structurally stronger than comparable buses offering superior fuel economy. On account of the monocoque construction and C.E.D full body immersion process for primer application these buses offer best in class durability. A 51-seater (first of its kind) and the school bus variant of the 33-seater Traveller Monobus range are on display.
New Gurkha drives in
The Force Trax has received a compete makeover. Three variants on this grounds-up next generation modular utility vehicle platform were unveiled – a people-mover variant (Cruiser), a cargo variant (Kargoking), and an off-road/ recreational variant (Gurkha). All three are modular with multiple wheel base options and body configurations. This new platform comes with an all-new chassis, suspension, body and interiors.
BEST's Citibus on show too
Also, on display is the Traveller Smart Citibus operated by B.E.S.T. that is bringing about a paradigm shift in the way commuters in Mumbai cover the last mile. These air-conditioned buses with comfortable seating for 21 persons are being preferred by the commuters over the shared autos, shared taxis and traditional large buses to move from their residence to the metro station and place of work.
Force Motors’ R&D team has also developed in-house a 100% electric variant of the flagship brand Traveller bus which is specially designed for last-mile, inner city connectivity with overnight charging.
According to Prasan Firodia, managing director, Force Motors, “Customer expectations and aspirations are rapidly changing. We have tried to develop in-house, grounds-up, next-generation platforms in all the segments that we operate in. We are confident that both domestic and international customers will welcome our new offerings.”