The Tata Magic Express bi-fuel comes across as compact, efficient, and built for last-mile MASS mobility requirements, writes Ashish Bhatia.

Since its launch in 2007, the Tata Magic platform has made a significant mark in India’s commercial vehicle sector. Positioned as a reliable, cost-effective solution for mass passenger transport, the Tata Magic Express holds on to the legacy with its latest iteration, incorporating modern technology and a dual-fuel system to meet the needs of urban and rural operators alike. The company recently hit the Magical milestone of four lakh customers coinciding with the launch of the first in- segment of bi-fuel.

Anand S, Vice President & Head – Passenger Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles opines that the milestone of four lakh journeys resonates with customer trust, efficiency and comfort. “The new variant is engineered to address the evolving transportation needs and further improve the profitability and convenience for our customers. We are thankful for the support and loyalty of our customers and we remain dedicated to continue providing superior mobility solutions.”

A refined legacy

The Magic platform was introduced alongside the Tata Winger in the mid-2000s, offering seating for up to eight passengers based on the Tata Ace mini truck chassis. With consistent demand for reliable last-mile mobility solutions, Tata Motors has built on this strong foundation. We drove the new Arctic white, monocoque with a 1.935-tonne GVW Magic Express is designed for a range of applications— school transport, staff shuttles, and public transportation—especially for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Abilities like a direct CNG start, and faster refuelling through the NZS receptacle bring it up to speed with modern-day requirements.

CNG-Petrol dual fuel system

The highlight of the Tata Magic Express is its advanced bi-fuel capability, seamlessly switching between CNG and petrol courtesy of an advanced ECU, leading to optimal air-fuel ratio for high performance and fuel efficiency. Equipped with 60-litre twin-cylinder CNG tanks and a five-litre petrol tank, the vehicle offers an impressive range of approximately 300 km per fill and 27.2 km per kilogram mileage, certified by ARAI. With a 150 mm ground clearance, on petrol, the Magic has a 29.4 per cent grade ability and 26 per cent grade ability on CNG. This was validated in our drive across gradients. This feature positions it as an ideal choice for fleet operators seeking a balance of operational efficiency and lower fuel costs, enhancing profitability with reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

Compact and ergonomic design

Inside, the Tata Magic Express delivers a practical yet comfortable driving and passenger experience. The cabin is spacious with seating for 10 passengers, arranged in a D+1, 3-2- 3 layout. Despite its compact size, the vehicle is designed to ensure ease of ingress and egress, with solid grab handles and well-positioned steps for passenger comfort. The driver’s cabin offers functional elements such as an Eco switch, gearshift advisor and enhanced driver ergonomics, all aimed at reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). The Magic is positioned as perfectly suited for student and staff transportation, and last-mile mobility. Powered by a 694cc Tata 275 MPFIO4 engine that, is mated to a five-speed manual synchromesh GBS 65 transmission (sliding mesh on the reverse gear), it develops a peak rated power of 25hp and torque of 49 Nm in the 2000-3000 rpm range. It is a productive companion in the laden state.

The Magic driver cabin boasts of a digital instrument cluster, a lockable glove box, USB connectivity, and a first-aid kit. These features reflect Tata Motors’ commitment to ergonomic design while ensuring all essential controls and displays are within easy reach.

Focus on safety and compliance

Safety remains paramount, especially in the commercial passenger segment. The Tata Magic Express is equipped with three emergency SOS buttons, conveniently located grab handles, and sliding windows for ventilation. Three-point ELR seat belts in the front row lock automatically during sudden stops, enhancing passenger safety. Additional safety measures include fire extinguishers and a variety of safety instruction stickers placed strategically throughout the vehicle. One notable compliance feature is the CNG refuelling system. The vehicle is fitted with a CNG receptacle that ensures safe and quick refuelling.

Leave the fuel cap open and the vehicle refuses to start. In addition, the vehicle’s ECU automatically switches between petrol and CNG as needed, offering seamless transitions between the two fuels. It boats of Rear Parking Assist System (RPAS) and Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) for enhanced stability. There are three panic buttons for passengers with easy access. The twin-cylinders are located beneath the rear seat for a larger boot space.

Performance and serviceability

With a wheelbase of 2,100 mm and a turning radius of 4.3m, the Tata Magic Express navigates urban environments efficiently, though drivers may find its non-electric power steering slightly heavier when making tight turns. The vehicle rode on 13-inch JK tyres, supported by a semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension system. Braking duties are performed by a disc brake on the front and drum brake on the rear. The Magic Express benefits from Tata Motors’ commitment to reducing operating costs. It comes with an industryleading service interval of 10,000 km for the minivan segment, along with a 24-month or 72,000 km warranty, further extending to 36 months or 100,000 km for the high-pressure CNG regulator.

Practical design and fleet viability

Aesthetically, the Magic Express maintains a clean and functional design. While there is a noticeable shift toward body-coloured tones in Tata’s more premium vehicles, this model focuses on practicality with fibre body panels aimed at keeping overall costs low for fleet operators. The rear section houses the CNG cylinders, safely mounted and bolted to the body frame, ensuring compliance with safety standards while optimising space.

Conclusion

Priced from Rs.7.40 lakh (exshowroom) with options for an air-conditioned variant, the Magic Express is set to appeal to operators seeking a robust, fuel-efficient, and affordable vehicle for a variety of transport needs. The company also offers the Magic Mantra CNG which is lighter at GVW 1.875-tonne. In the highly competitive commercial vehicle space, the Tata Magic Express stands out with its versatile fuel options, safety features, and low operational costs. With applications ranging from urban passenger transport to rural mobility solutions, it is an ideal choice for fleet operators looking for a vehicle that combines the best of both afford ability and modern functionality. At the back end, the deal is sweetened by the assurance of better fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, high vehicle uptime, real-time tracking and analytic through Tata Motors Fleet Edge. The Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative is claimed to provide unmatched vehicle life cycle management services, including fleet management solutions, annual maintenance contracts and roadside assistance amongst others. Operators have access to a wide service network of 2500 plus touch points, staffed by trained specialists and backed by Tata Genuine Parts.