Key highlights
- Tata Motors is actively studying CNG and hybrid tech for the Harrier and Safari.
- The move aligns with Tata’s multi-fuel strategy, already seen in petrol, diesel, EVs, and CNG models.
- If approved, the CNG and hybrid variants could offer lower running costs and cleaner emissions without sacrificing size or presence.
Tata Motors is now looking beyond diesel and EVs for its flagship SUVs. The company has confirmed that it is evaluating both CNG and hybrid powertrains for the Harrier and Safari, marking a major shift in how big SUVs might evolve in India.
Until now, the Harrier and Safari have relied exclusively on a 2.0-litre diesel engine. While powerful and proven, diesel alone won’t carry Tata into India’s fast-changing emissions and fuel economy landscape. That’s where CNG and hybrid tech come in.
Why CNG for big SUVs?
CNG may feel like an odd companion for a 5-seater and 7-seater SUV, but the logic is simple: running cost matters, even in premium segments. CNG fuel costs far less per km than petrol or diesel, and Tata already has strong traction in the CNG space with the Altroz, Punch, and Tiago iCNG models.
The real challenge lies in packaging. Harrier and Safari have large boots that customers value, and CNG cylinders are space-hungry. Tata will need a smart, possibly dual-cylinder layout to retain practicality.
If they pull it off, this could be India’s first large, factory-CNG SUV which will be a segment-first move that hits both cost-conscious and eco-aware buyers.
Strong Hybrid in the pipeline
Alongside CNG, Tata is also seriously considering a strong hybrid setup. This will likely be based on its new-gen petrol engine family that’s already in development. A hybrid Harrier or Safari could offer improved low-end torque, better city fuel efficiency, and smoother power delivery without going full-EV.
This would help Tata compete head-on with upcoming hybrid SUVs from Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra.
The bigger strategy
Tata has been clear: it doesn’t believe in a single-fuel future. From diesel to turbo-petrol, from factory CNG to EVs, and now hybrids, the brand wants to be ready for every kind of buyer in the 2025–2030 window.
With EVs like the Harrier EV already confirmed for launch next year, adding hybrids and CNG only strengthens Tata’s position.
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