Jayem Neo (Tata Nano EV) available in used car market

Do you fancy owning a small, nimble electric hatchback in the Rs 3 to 5 lakh price bracket? Then here’s an option that might interest you. It has been brought to our attention that there are several pre-owned examples of the Jayem Neo EV – the all-electric Tata Nano – for sale in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Delhi, on various online used car portals.

1. Jayem Neo EV is based on the Tata Nano
2. Used examples available for Rs 3-5 lakh
3. Can be registered by private buyers too

Jayem Neo EV: what is it?

The Jayem Neo EV, or electric Tata Nano as some might know it, was jointly developed and engineered by Coimbatore-based engineering and production house Jayem, and Tata, under the close watch of Emeritus Chairman Ratan Tata. In 2018, Jayem made a batch of 400 cars to cater to an order from Ola Cabs, and these were delivered for use in Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The Neo EV was only available in a white finish and wore yellow plates, as these were used for commercial purposes only.

It came with a 17kWh battery and an electric motor that generated 27hp of power and 68Nm of torque. It boasted of a 0-40kph time of around 5.8 seconds. We recently reviewed the Jayem Neo EV, and we can confirm its real-world range is approximately 130km on a full charge. 

Buying a used Jayem Neo EV

Several examples of this electric Nano are on sale in the used car market, and even though it wore commercial plates originally, buyers have the option to register it as a private vehicle as well, as it’s on sale in the pre-owned market. 

Sellers are asking between Rs 3 lakh and 5 lakh for it, and while the price might seem relatively reasonable compared to new entry-level EVs like the MG Comet or Tata Tiago EV, prices for which start at Rs 7.98 lakh and Rs 8.69 lakh, respectively, there are a few things to keep in mind before signing on the dotted line for the Neo EV.

Our sources tell us that most Neo EVs have been out of commission and left abandoned for a few years. Some dealers, however, are refurbishing them, recalibrating their Battery Management System (BMS), and updating their passive cell balancing tech to optimise performance before putting them up for sale.

In addition to the electric powertrain, it is important to check whether all fluids (eg. brake fluids) and its 12V battery are replaced; electrical bits are working fine; and its suspension, brakes, steering and tyres are in good nick. Do keep a close eye for corrosion, as many of these cars were left unattended for unusually long periods of time. 

Along with watching out for the above, you must inspect all the ownership documents (registration certificate, insurance) as well as the availability of an NOC (no objection certificate) from the seller to the buyer, if the latter is from a different state. 

If all these points check out, consider moving ahead, but bear in mind the Jayem Neo EV isn’t backed by any warranty, nor will Tata service centres be able to provide technical support for this niche, all-electric offering.