One of the smallest cars in the world has been very aptly called the Nano. Which is not to say that the Nano makes contortionists out of its passengers. With proven good interior space, this car can be compared to the prestigious Mini Cooper that is said to have been able to seat even six-footers inside. The Nano’s interiors are an amazing packaging feat; this sounds better when you realise this car was entirely conceived, designed and produced indigenously. This brilliant little car has spawned some interesting ideas as well.
Recently even the Delhi Chief Minister, Sheila Dikshit, received a letter stating why the Nano should replace autorickshaws there. It would provide covered, world-class public transport for Delhi’s commuters and secondly, it would improve road manners, since the Nano makes for far more elegant means of transport for the driver.
And why not? Aren’t we all sick of the clatter of the rattle-traps we use so frequently to get from A to B in our manic cities, and worse still, getting stuck in one when the rains lash down? The Nano would really work to sort this problem with its fully-enclosed design.
But importantly, driving behaviour would almost certainly improve since the disgruntled autorickshaw driver would now be a proud owner of a car. Also, importantly, the Nano hardly takes up a couple more square feet of area than an autorickshaw does, so our roads won’t get more congested.
Also, isn’t it time the familiar sight of an entire family, complete with two kids and a toddler, squeezing together on a motorcycle, works its way onto a Polaroid and into a museum? True, there was no choice in the matter until now. The Nano, now past its teething issues, makes for a cute and charming little car that will, more importantly, be a safer addition on our asphalt.
The writer is an automobile enthusiast based in Kodaikanal.