Tata Safari EV Spotted Testing Before Diwali 2026 Launch

A fresh spy video of the Tata Safari EV test mule has surfaced, shared by content creator Kochimachan on Instagram, showing the SUV testing on the road in Bengaluru. The Safari EV — the brand's first 7 seater EV is expected to launch around Diwali 2026, which falls on November 8. It will directly compete with the Mahindra XEV 9S, BYD eMax 7, Kia Carens Clavis EV and the VinFast MPV 7

What the Test Mule Reveals

The front end shows a closed-off grille treatment, a new bumper and restyled headlamp housings, with LED DRLs clearly visible. This closed grille design follows the same EV-specific language Tata has already introduced on the Next Gen Tiago EV and is expected to carry on the upcoming Sierra EV — a consistent design thread across Tata's electric line-up rather than something unique to the Safari EV.

On the side, the test mule shows an integrated side step which will probably be provided as an additional accessory. The wheels appear aero-focused, though exact design details remain hidden. The roofline and window line carry over unchanged from the ICE version.

At the rear, changes are expected to be minimal — possibly a mildly revised tail lamp cluster and bumper, along with ".EV" badging at various points on the body. The overall stance and proportions remain identical to the ICE Safari, suggesting significant parts sharing between the two for cost efficiency. A revised, more premium colour palette is also expected for the EV.

Platform and Engineering

The Safari EV will be built on Tata's Acti.EV+ platform, the same architecture that underpins the other Tata EVs like the Harrier EV. Like the Harrier it is expected to use a multi-link rear suspension with frequency-dependent dampers and Tata's TiDAL electrical and electronic architecture, which supports connected car features, over-the-air updates and ADAS. This architecture also enables a 540-degree camera system and low-speed cruise control — both already available on the Harrier.

Tata has not officially confirmed battery specifications for the Safari EV. It is expected to share battery options with the Harrier EV, though some reports have speculated on a larger 80 kWh or even 90 kWh pack. None of this has been confirmed.

The Safari EV is expected to be offered with both RWD and AWD configurations, along with selectable terrain modes.

What We Do Not Know Yet

Pricing, exact specifications and an official launch date remain unconfirmed. The Safari EV will be positioned as Tata's new EV flagship, sitting above the Harrier EV in the line-up.

Spy video credit: Kochimachan, Instagram