FWD vs AWD
Put into simple words, FWD and AWD are two types of drivetrains available in cars and SUVs in which, the former transmits power to the front wheels only, while the AWD vehicles distribute power to all four wheels.
Besides that, FWD vehicles generally are more fuel-efficient and less expensive than AWD vehicles. However, FWD vehicles can be less capable in slippery or off-road conditions. On the other hand, AWD vehicles offer better traction and performance in slippery or off-road conditions.
Why Tata Motors doesn’t offer Harrier, Safari with AWD system
Low demand
Tata Motors believes that the demand for AWD and 4×4 capable SUVs in India is fairly low in the segment Harrier and Safari compete. That said, the company believes that the market is not large enough to justify the cost of development and production of AWD SUVs.
Cost
Developing and producing AWD variants of vehicles is more expensive than developing and producing FWD variants. This is because AWD systems require additional components and engineering. The added cost would likely be passed on to consumers, making the Harrier and Safari less competitive in the market.
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In addition to the above reasons, it is worth noting that both Harrier and Safari are based on the Omega Arc platform, which is derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform. However, the said platform wasn’t originally designed for AWD system, which means the company will have to make significant modifications or build a completely new platform to accommodate AWD – which is of course, a costly and time consuming process.
What’s ahead?
While the company is gearing up to launch the facelifted Safari and Harrier in India, it has no plans whatsoever to introduce an AWD/4×4 capable SUV in the near future as well. In fact, the company plans to bring the AWD system next in a grounds-up electric vehicle, likely to be Harrier EV.
