Overview

The Tata Ultra T7 is a new entrant in the intermediate and light commercial vehicle segment and Tata has a 44% market share in this segment. These trucks are exported to Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and South Africa.

The Ultra T7 was first displayed at the Auto Expo held in 2018 and was launched a couple of months later in April 2018. The Ultra series is big step forward for Tata, and has heralded a new generation of trucks similar to the effect their Prima series had in the market when they were launched years ago.

The Tata Ultra T7 offers a warranty of 3 years or 3 lakh kilometres, whichever is earlier. This declaration is a sign of TATA’s confidence in its commercial vehicle.

Specs

Engine: 2956 cc, water-cooled common rail

Power: 82.6 hp at 2800 rpm

Torque: 250 Nm at 1400-2400 rpm

Wheelbase: 3550 mm

Gross Vehicle Weight: 7300 kg

Engine and Performance

Tata has employed the 4SP CR engine in multiple models of the Ultra range including the T7. The 2956cc engine is a water-cooled, common rail diesel unit. The maximum power arrives at a relatively high 2800 rpm, but the peak torque can be reached at as low as 1400 rpm. The torque curve is flat which improves the hauling power of the Tata Ultra T7.

The 5-speed manual gearbox has the gear lever mounted on the dash. The 1st gear provides Tata Ultra T7 with a gradeability of 26%.

Vehicle Build and Load Capacity

The T7’s HD variant is 6400 mm long, 2050 mm wide, and 2680 mm high. The CAB and CLB options are shorter, smaller, and narrower.

The loading span of this truck is 4269 mm long, 1914 mm wide, and 1646 mm high for the HD. The CLB is 16 mm longer and 41 mm wider, but 1234 mm lower.

The gross vehicle weight of the Tata Ultra T7 is 7300 kg. The kerb weight is 2990 kg and 2500 kg for the HD and CLB variants respectively. This gives it a load capacity of 4310 kg and 4800 kg.

Handling and Suspension

The handling capabilities of the T7 are very impressive, thanks to the 3550 mm wheelbase and its 192 mm ground clearance. The truck is equipped with hydraulic power steering which has both, tilt and telescopic adjustability.

A 13.9 m turning radius ensures that the T7 can be turned in reasonably tight urban spaces.The front suspension is a parabolic leaf with rubber bushes. The rear uses a semi-elliptical leaf spring setup. The shock absorbers are tuned and adjustable for the relevant GVW.

Its front axle is a forged I beam, reverse elliot type. The rear axle gets a fully floating single reduction hypoid gear type.

Braking and Safety

Braking on the Tata Ultra T7 is taken care of by drum air brakes which are dual circuit full air s-cam brakes and are powerful enough to bring the 7-ton vehicle to a sudden halt in urgent situations. It also as a spring actuated parking brake on the rear wheels.

A class safety feature is the usage of tubeless tyres which helps in reducing the chance of a sudden blowout at speed. These tyres have a low aspect ratio and rolling resistance tread, thereby increasing fuel efficiency and tyre life.

Like in most modern trucks, the T7 also has seat belts. A welcome addition in this model is the inclusion of an indicator on the instrument cluster.

Design and Comfort

A 45-degree tiltable steel cabin has been used in the T7, making it easier to service. On the outside, the most visually striking features are the clear lens headlamps and LEDs used in the tail lamp with the latter being a first in commercial vehicles.

The 4-way adjustable bucket seat for the driver is wider and more comfortable than most. This, along with the adjustable steering ensures optimal comfort for the driver. There is an integrated headrest and an armrest with a storage space below along with two passenger seats.

Ingress and egress is more comfortable with a foothold which is neatly integrated into the bodywork and a grab handle.

The instrument cluster has a modern with a mix of digital, analogue, and LEDs.