Tata Says Tiny Nano Nearly Ready for U.S. Launch

India's Tata Motors Ltd. says European homologation of its low-cost Nano subcompact car already is done, paving the way for potential sales in the U.S.

The Nano Europa, launching in Europe in 2011, has several changes from Tata's $2,500 Indian model, says Tony Jones, associate vice president-Global Automotive Practice for Tata Technologies Ltd.

Tata Technologies, one of numerous Tata group companies, has an office in Novi, MI, just outside Detroit, where Jones is based. The supplier recently showcased an Indian-spec Nano at the Detroit Science Center for the media.

The European version is 8 ins. (20 cm) longer, 3 ins. (8 cm) wider, and its wheelbase is stretched 2 ins. (5 cm).

Should Tata bring the Nano to the U.S., more work likely would be needed to strengthen the roof to meet new government safety regulations in 2012.

Despite the relatively small size of the Nano's 12-in. wheels, Jones says they meet U.S. standards, and the only change that may be needed would be adding a fourth lug nut to each.

Chairman Ratan Tata recently told Reuters he is considering launching the Nano in the U.S. in three years. The Nano offers three trim grades in India, but most units sold are the legendary $2,500 base model. The European Nano, with additional content, will be priced at about E8,000 ($11,500).