Tata Harrier EV vs Tata Harrier ICE: What Sets Them Apart?

Tata Motors has officially unveiled the Harrier EV, the electric version of its popular SUV, as part of its expanding electrification strategy. While it shares much of its DNA with the internal combustion engine (ICE) Harrier, the electric version brings distinct design, drivetrain, and technology upgrades that set it apart as a forward-looking alternative.

Design

From a distance, the Harrier EV closely resembles the facelifted internal combustion engine (ICE) version in terms of dimensions and silhouette. However, a closer look reveals key differentiators. The front fascia is updated with a blanked-off grille, replacing the conventional open grille, lending it a cleaner and more aerodynamic appearance. The bumper gets a reprofiled skid plate in a contrasting shade, and body-coloured elements are more prominent, contributing to a smoother overall aesthetic. Tata has retained the signature connected LED lighting up front, aligning it visually with the ICE facelift.

Along the side, the EV features a new set of aero-optimised dual-tone alloy wheels, designed not just for visual appeal but also to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The rear profile remains largely unchanged, though minor tweaks in detailing and exclusive colour options help differentiate the EV.

Interior

The cabin of the Harrier EV follows the same basic layout as its ICE counterpart but comes with meaningful updates. The centrepiece is a new 14.53-inch Harman-sourced touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Samsung's advanced NEO QLED technology. This is a step up from the 12.3-inch unit in the ICE model and promises improved visuals and responsiveness.

The instrument cluster remains fully digital but now includes EV-specific UI elements such as range monitoring, energy flow visualisation, and regenerative braking data. Additionally, a lighter upholstery tone brightens up the cabin and contributes to a more airy, contemporary feel.

Platform and Drivetrain

Here's where the similarities stop between the two. Underpinning the Harrier EV is Tata's new Gen 2 acti.ev platform—a heavily re-engineered version of the Omega architecture. Crucially, this version of the platform is designed to accommodate a dual-motor setup, making the Harrier EV the first in the nameplate’s history to offer all-wheel drive.

The dual motors enable Quad Wheel Drive (QWD) capability, delivering a combined torque output of 504 Nm. According to Tata, this setup propels the Harrier EV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds when Boost Mode is engaged, offering a level of performance that far outpaces its ICE sibling.

Technology

The Harrier EV also debuts Tata's Clear View Assist Suite. Its headline feature, Transparent Mode, uses underbody cameras to project the terrain directly beneath the vehicle onto the infotainment screen. This is particularly useful in off-road conditions or while navigating urban obstacles like speed bumps and potholes.

Supporting this system is a 540-degree camera setup, combining a traditional 360-degree top-down view with underfloor imaging. Additionally, the smart HD e-IRVM (electronic rearview mirror) doubles as a digital video recorder (DVR) and offers an expanded rear field of vision for enhanced safety and awareness.