Tata Motors has introduced its new sub-4-metre sedan with a starting ex-showroom price of Rs 5.29 lakh, making it less expensive than the Maruti Suzuki Dzire at the entry level. Alongside its pricing, the sedan has drawn attention for its safety-focused equipment and the unusual demonstrations conducted during its launch event. The company used two separate displays to highlight the structural strength of the car, including a demonstration involving a Harrier EV weighing around 2,336 kg.
Harrier EV used in structural strength demonstration
During the event, Tata Motors placed a Harrier EV on a steel platform positioned above an Aeries iCNG. A supporting framework was installed around the sedan’s roof, with several contact points visible around the edges. The arrangement appeared designed to distribute the weight across multiple points rather than placing the entire load directly on the roof.
The compact sedan remained in its overall shape during the display, while the windscreen and rear glass appeared intact. Blocks could also be seen beneath the vehicle, although their exact function in the demonstration was not specified. The company presented the setup as a visual demonstration of the sedan’s structural strength rather than as a substitute for an independently conducted crash test.
20-tonne debris test adds another demonstration
Tata Motors also showcased a video in which approximately 20 tonnes of debris were dropped onto the sedan. The vehicle was subsequently shown being started and driven away. The demonstration was intended to underline the durability of the car’s structure and its ability to remain operational after the impact.
These displays offer an indication of the areas Tata is emphasizing with the new sedan. However, the demonstrations themselves should not be treated as an official crash-test result. An independently certified safety assessment would provide a separate measure of occupant protection and crash performance.
Six airbags offered as standard
The Aeries follows Tata’s safety-focused approach, with ultra-high-strength steel used as part of its body structure. Six airbags are standard across the range, while ABS with EBD, corner stability control, ISOFIX child-seat mounts and rear parking sensors are also included.
The company has highlighted additional safety provisions for the iCNG version. These include leak detection, thermal incident protection and rear crash protection. Electronic stability control, traction control, hill hold assist and tyre pressure monitoring are available from the Pure Plus trim onwards.
Higher variants add more technology
Equipment levels increase as buyers move up the range. The Creative trim gets a 360-degree camera with multiple 2D and 3D viewing options, while the Accomplished variant adds an integrated dashcam. A blind-view monitoring feature is also available, adding another layer of driver assistance around the vehicle.
The feature list also includes a 10.24-inch touchscreen, positioning the Aeries as a technology-focused offering in the compact sedan category. With its Rs 5.29 lakh starting price, standard six-airbag package and higher-end safety and convenience equipment, Tata is targeting buyers looking for a feature-rich sedan without moving into a higher price bracket.