In an era where EVs are primarily associated with urban sophistication and quiet commutes, Tata Motors just shattered expectations. The upcoming Tata Harrier EV has achieved something few electric SUVs dare to attempt — climbing the infamous Elephant Rock (Thangalpara) in Kerala, known for its 34° incline and brutal terrain. No CGI. No marketing gimmickry. Just torque, tech, and trust in Tata engineering.
What is Elephant Rock?
Located in Vagamon, Kerala, Elephant Rock (Thangalpara) is a notorious rocky outcrop with a height of 3,937 ft and a finale climb so steep it’s avoided even by many ICE-powered 4x4s. The Harrier EV’s conquest was split into 3 segments:
- Minefield: Jagged rock-bed terrain
- Ridge: Narrow, unstable inclines
- Beast: The brutal 34° climb to the summit
🚗 Driver: Pro off-roader and EV enthusiast, Dr. Mohammed Fahed
📹 Footage: All real. No green screens or cinematic cheats.
Performance Highlights: Harrier EV is No City Crawler
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive System | Dual-Motor AWD (Quad Wheel Drive) |
| Torque Output | Approx. 500 Nm (instant EV torque) |
| Off-Road Modes | Rock Crawl, Sand, Snow, Boost |
| Tech Support | Transparent Bonnet View, Off-Road Assist |
| Range | Up to 600 km on full charge |
| Cameras | 360° Surround + Underbody Cameras |
🔥 Exclusive Highlight: The Harrier EV used Boost Mode and Rock Crawl Mode simultaneously during the steepest climb, pushing all four wheels independently for optimized grip.
Unique Tech That Made It Possible
1. Transparent Bonnet View
An underbody + front camera combo stitched into a digital display, letting drivers “see through” the SUV while rock crawling.
2. Boost Mode
Unleashes maximum torque for short bursts — ideal for rocky outcrops and steep vertical climbs.
3. Off-Road Assist
Electronically controls throttle, braking, and traction in crawl mode, preventing slip and roll-back.
Dr. Fahed’s Experience: “This is not just an EV. This is a revolution.”
Dr. Fahed confirmed that underbody scraping did occur, but the Harrier EV’s chassis took it without flinching. The torque delivery was so linear, it allowed for smooth ascents without jerks — something ICE 4x4s often struggle with.
“Even on the ‘Beast’ section, the Harrier EV didn’t hesitate. It clawed its way up with dignity.”
Why This Matters for Indian EVs
| Traditional View | What Tata Harrier EV Proves |
|---|---|
| EVs are not off-road ready | Harrier EV climbed real boulders |
| Range anxiety | 600 km real-world estimate |
| EVs are fragile | Took on rock scrapes & climbs |
| Off-road = Diesel | EVs can match torque needs |
Game-Changer Moment: This climb isn’t just a PR stunt. It’s proof that Indian EVs can perform in extreme real-world conditions.
Conclusion: Not Just an EV. A Movement.
The Tata Harrier EV’s climb of Elephant Rock is more than a dramatic visual — it’s symbolic of the climb Indian EVs are making in performance, design, and consumer confidence. With ruggedness now added to Tata’s already-strong EV legacy, the Harrier EV might just become the defining electric SUV for the Indian masses.
