The End For The World's Cheapest Car

The End For The World's Cheapest Car

The end is in sight for the Tata Nano, the world's most affordable car. Until earlier this year, you could have purchased a Nano from the Indian motor company Tata for just under $3,400. Only one Nano rolled off the assembly line last month, sounding the death knell for a car produced for ten years. 

While they were never very popular, the Nano found its niche with those who couldn't afford more in a country of extreme wealth and crushing poverty. They were small enough to slip through the crowded streets of major cities and got amazing gas mileage. About 55 MPG on a 2-cylinder engine could get you pretty far on some of the worst roads in the world. Still, it was a little too Spartan even for economy-conscious consumers. The base model didn't even have air conditioning and its crash test rating was terrible. 

Tata Motors isn't in any danger of going under, though. While this model is on its way out, several of their other lines are wildly popular.

The growth Tata has experienced has catapulted them into a very comfortable position; one of a company poised to nearly increase its sales by 40% versus last year if recent months trends hold for the remainder of the year.

If you do happen to come across one in the US, though, swing by here at Uptown Body & Fender in Oakland, CA. We'd love to see it!

Written By: Todd Hendrickson
Source: cnet.com, Tata Motors