While currently not available in India, Force Gurkha pickup has potential for markets where pickups are among the preferred options
While the automotive space is generally marked by intense rivalry, some interesting collaborations have also occurred over the years. In a recent example, Tata has started selling the Force Gurkha pickup in Uganda through its own dealerships. In Uganda, Tata also sells its own Xenon double cab pickup.
Force Gurkha pickup launched
Test mules of Force Gurkha pickup have been spotted multiple times in India. These included various formats such as single cab, dual cab, and roll cage soft top versions. However, none of these have been introduced in India. The pickup segment is slowly gaining traction in India and this segment could see increased demand in the future.
Force Motors is likely to wait for the right time to introduce the Gurkha pickup in India. For now, the double cab version is available in Uganda and likely in other African markets as well. Exterior profile and equipment are largely the same as the Force Gurkha off-road focused SUV sold in India.
Since Force Motors does not have its own dealer network in Uganda, partnering with Tata provides access to a sizable market. Tata Motors is active in around 29 locations in Africa and has various local partners. In addition to the Xenon pickup, Tata sells various small trucks, light trucks, medium and heavy trucks, buses and utility vehicles in Uganda and other parts of Africa.
Tata is the official distributor of Force Motors in African countries like Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and Nigeria. While the Gurkha pickup is a new addition, Tata already offers the Force Gurkha SUV (3-door and 5-door) in African countries. Vans like Force Urbania and Traveller are also sold through Tata dealerships in Africa.
Performance, features
Powertrain for the pickup version is the same as the Gurkha SUV sold in India. Tata has posted details – a 2.6-litre diesel engine, generating 140 PS and 320 Nm of torque. The Gurkha pickup has 4-wheel drive and is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. Off-roading capabilities of the Gurkha pickup are the same as the Gurkha SUV.
These off-road features would be even more useful in Africa, where journeys often extend beyond paved roads onto dirt tracks and rough terrain. Key features of Force Gurkha include an air intake snorkel, mechanically actuated differential locks on both axles and multi-link coil suspension on all four wheels.
Force Gurkha has a ground clearance of 233 mm and uses 18-inch alloy wheels. It has best in class 37 degree departure angle and 28 degree ramp over angle. Gradeability is rated at 35 degrees. Force Gurkha has best in class water wading capability of 700 mm. If launched in India sometime in the future, Force Gurkha pickup will take on rivals such as the upcoming Scorpio N pickup.