Nano is here Finally the $2000/ 100,000 Rupees car is here. As everybody did I also thought that Nano will probably feel like a bike or a rickshaw on 4 wheels. Initial reviews from test drives suggest otherwise. Looks like Tata Motors managed to make it feel and perform like a real car.

The makers of the car managed to bring down the price by skimping on the parts and the features that are there for convenience. (basic upholstery, No radio!, no A/C! ) But they also added quality to the parts that matter most on Indian roads like good suspension system for the tough Indian roads, good turning radius, strong outer body and quick acceleration in the first 2 gears. (most needed to get ahead of the traffic once the lights turn green). The positioning is bang on target for their market segment in India; The 2-wheeler owners who seek to own a car for safety and for comfort in the rough weather. The car is built exactly to do that. No wonder they were swamped with bookings.

I have posted another blog item recently which talks about the business models of the developed world dont necessarily apply for the emerging markets. Nano will take its place in the list of innovative business models from India; Arvind Eye, Jaipur foot and dabbawalahs.

I should reserve another blog item to ponder how the clogged Indian roads can accommodate any more cars.