The platform was originally showcased at Auto Expo 2020, before the pandemic delayed its launch
Force Motors has finally taken veils off its next-gen shared mobility platform- T1N, calling its production form ‘Urbania’. The same was earlier showcased at Auto Expo 2020, before its debut got delayed by the pandemic. The manufacturer has started Urbania’s production at its new state-of-the-art facility, and recently showcased it at a dealer meet in Indore. Dealer dispatches are expected to commence in the coming weeks. Here’s more to know about it:
Force Urbania: It Is Safer!
T1N is a platform that’s been developed to meet global standards. It is India’s first indigenously developed new-gen modular monocoque panel van platform, realised with a net investment of over 1000 crores. As a matter of fact, the T1N is the manufacturer’s first new platform in 30 years! It will have short, regular and long wheelbase forms. Massive attention has been put into enhancing the safety, and the likes of hill hold assist, ESP, ABS, EBD, ETDC, and dual airbags are offered. The vehicle is expected to comply with crash, rollover and pedestrian safety regulations that could roll out in the time ahead.
Force Urbania: Exterior Design
Force Urbania gets world-class styling. A quick look at it would remind you of a number of global van nameplates. It looks sleek and modern. Key exterior highlights include sealed panoramic windows, LED tail lamps with light guides, and good-looking headlamp design with projectors and integrated DRLs. The Urbania gets a 2-box design, that isolates its occupants completely from the engine and its immediate ecosystem.
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Force Urbania: Cabin And Passenger Comfort
Courtesy of its two-box construction, the Force Urbania offers a very comfortable cabin experience. NVH is well-contained and there are multiple creature comforts inside the cabin. The short wheelbase variant can seat 10 while the regular (medium) wheelbase can accommodate 13 people. The long wheelbase version, however, can seat 17 people, excluding the driver. The vehicle would offer best-in-class cabin room and attractive creature comforts like advanced triple AC system with individual vents, reclining seats, 6/8 speaker audio system, individual reading lamps and USB ports. It also comes with an independent front suspension with transverse springs and dual acting telescopic shocks for top-notch ride quality. The cabin height and width are so set to provide ample room for someone to stand up and move around comfortably.
| Variant | Seating Capacity |
| Short Wheelbase | 10 + D |
| Medium Wheelbase | 13 + D |
| Long wheelbase | 17 + D |
Enough attention has also been given to the driver comfort. Urbania has a driver oriented design for its cockpit. The driver gets ample reach and visibility at all times. Key attractions include tilt-telescopic adjustments for the steering wheel, handy design for the dashboard-mounted gear shifter, 17.8 cm LCD touchscreen that supports Apple Carplay, Android Auto and phone mirroring, central locking, front power windows, camera and ultrasonic sensor based reverse park assist, and a start-stop feature for added fuel economy.
Force Motors Urbania Engine Specifications
2022 Urbania gets a Mercedes-sourced common rail diesel engine as its powertrain. The FM 2.6 CR ED TCIC engine produces 115 hp and 350 Nm. The monocoque construction further adds to the overall vehicle safety and road manners.
Force Motors Business Plans With The Urbania Van
Force Motors seems to have big plans with the Urbania. It hopes to take the platform to global markets like the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, and South America. The overall character and safety levels on offer, would fairly facilitate this and Urbania could deliver great value proposition when compared to many of its rivals from USA, Europe and Far East.
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Force Urbania Price And Indian Launch
Force Motors has launched the Urbania van in India at attractive prices. The medium wheelbase variant is priced at Rs 28.99 lakh, ex-showroom. The short wheelbase version bears a sticker price of Rs 29.50 lakh, while the long wheelbase would ask for Rs 31.25 lakh, ex-sh. The van will be sold through select Force dealerships across the country.
| Variant | Price |
| Short Wheelbase | 29.50 lakh |
| Medium Wheelbase | 28.99 lakh |
| Long wheelbase | 31.25 lakh |
The Urbania is definitely more expensive than a Force Traveller. But think of this as a safer, more premium, and evidently advanced alternative and the price premium would seem fair!
