Quick Highlights:QWD variants contribute around 30% to Harrier EV sales, surpassing Tata’s expectations.Tata plans to introduce QWD in lower trims, possibly starting from Fearless+.Current QWD models priced from ₹28.99 lakh, available only with 75 kWh battery.Expanded QWD lineup expected to boost sales and improve variant flexibility.Tata Motors is preparing to widen the appeal of the Harrier EV by introducing its Quad Wheel Drive (QWD) system in lower variants, following the unexpectedly strong response to the current top-spec QWD trims. Launched in June earlier this year, the Harrier EV has quickly become one of Tata’s top-selling electric SUVs. What stands out is the demand for the QWD-equipped models, which account for almost 30% of the SUV’s sales — well above the company’s initial estimate of 20%.The QWD system, also referred to as AWD (All Wheel Drive), is a segment-first feature in the electric SUV space. Despite a higher starting price of ₹28.99 lakh (ex-showroom), customers have shown a clear preference for the dual-motor performance configuration. These variants are currently available only in the top-tier Empowered trim level, making them significantly more expensive than the rear-wheel-drive alternatives.According to Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer at Tata Motors, the enthusiasm around the QWD has prompted the company to rethink its variant strategy. Speaking with Autocar India, he confirmed that Tata will soon be offering the QWD drivetrain in additional variants to broaden its customer base. With nearly one-third of Harrier EV buyers opting for the premium dual-motor setup, the automaker sees a viable opportunity to expand this feature downward in the lineup.At present, the difference between the top-spec non-QWD variants and the QWD variants lies mainly in the drivetrains. The Empowered 75 and Empowered 75 ACFC are priced at ₹27.49 lakh and ₹27.98 lakh, respectively, making the QWD variant a notable step up. However, buyers seem willing to pay for the added capability and performance. The dual-motor layout of the QWD trims includes a 238 PS rear motor paired with an additional 158 PS motor at the front. Together, they produce a combined torque output of 504 Nm and offer features like Boost Mode, Offroad Assist, and six terrain settings: Normal, Snow/Grass, Mud-Ruts, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Custom.The current variant lineup of the Harrier EV consists of Adventure, Adventure S, Fearless+, and Empowered trims. Industry expectations suggest that the Fearless+ trim could be the next in line to receive the QWD treatment. This variant already comes with both the 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery options, increasing the likelihood that Tata may begin its QWD expansion here. However, it remains uncertain whether the feature will eventually trickle down to the Adventure S or base Adventure trims.Expanding the QWD offering could also mirror strategies seen in competitors like Mahindra, which packages larger battery options across mid-level trims to widen customer choice. Currently, lower and mid variants of the Harrier EV offer 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs paired with a single rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 238 PS and 315 Nm of torque. These variants support Eco, City, and Sport drive modes.The 65 kWh variants deliver a certified range of 538 km (MIDC Part 1 + Part 2), while real-world numbers under Tata’s C75 testing standard fall between 420 and 445 km. The 75 kWh variants extend this to a certified 627 km and offer an estimated real-world range of 480 to 505 km. In comparison, the Harrier EV QWD variants have a slightly lower certified range of 622 km due to the dual-motor setup, with real-world results expected between 460 and 490 km.Beyond performance, the Harrier EV has been well-received for its comprehensive tech and convenience package. Every trim gets premium features like a 540-degree camera system, a 14.5-inch touchscreen display, Level 2 ADAS capabilities, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, and a fully digital instrument cluster. These offerings help the SUV maintain a strong presence in the premium EV space.Introducing QWD in lower variants could significantly boost the competitiveness of the Harrier EV, making advanced performance capabilities accessible to a broader customer base. As pricing is one of the key factors limiting wider adoption of the QWD variants, a more affordable entry point could accelerate overall sales and strengthen Tata’s dominance in the electric SUV market.With customer demand shaping Tata’s product decisions, the Harrier EV lineup is set for meaningful expansion. A more diverse variant selection combining range flexibility, drivetrain options, and competitive pricing could help the model maintain its momentum in India’s fast-growing EV segment.