The Tata Marcopolo Paradiso G7 rear engined multi-axle luxury coach has been spotted testing in Lucknow – where the company has a facility.
First showcased at the Auto Expo 2012, the Paradiso G7 is based on Tata’s LPO 2138 rear engine platform and is jointly developed by Tata Motors and its Indo-Brazilian JV entity Tata Marcopolo.
It is understood that the Inter-city luxury coach is currently undergoing rigorous endurance tests which involves covering around 1,000 km everyday.
The Paradiso G7 offers deluxe and luxury seating arrangements. Maximum seating capacity (with reclining seats) is said to be 51 while optional sleeper configuration will also be available.
The coach can be specified with HVAC with demister, individual AC vents, LED cabin lighting, onboard refrigerator, individual entertainment package with headphones (4 LCD screens come as standard fitment), etc.
The multi-axle coach is expected to be powered by a Cummins diesel engine with an output of around 380 PS which should make for an effortless performance.
Tata Marcopolo has already initiated customer clinics for the product which takes aim at the incumbent Volvo 9400 XL (widely known as the B9R) and the potent Scania Metrolink multi-axle coach.
If things progress as planned, the Tata Marcopolo Paradiso G7 would be launched sometime in 2015. With a high percentage of local content compared to its Swedish rivals (Scania Metrolink will soon enter local production), Tata’s flagship coach is expected to cost significantly lower.
Source: Indian Autos Blog
