There’s nothing wrong with British engineers and managers after all, said the head of Tata Motors which owns Jaguar Land Rover.

A year ago Ratan Tata apparently criticised the Brits in a newspaper interview but he said at the Delhi show he was misunderstood.

“What I meant was the cultures are very different and British managers move in a different way to Indians.

“In India we tend to move from one crisis to another and so managers have to respond by working long hours and at weekends. In the UK there is not the need to operate in the same way. There was no intention to criticise the standard of engineering or management.”

Tata added there are still plans to introduce the Nano budget car to Europe and the US despite the model’s cool response in India.

Here, the Nano has been beset by industrial and quality problems which Tata said are now being ironed out.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

He added: “A Nano for Europe and the US would be different to the one we have in India. It will still be low cost but will have to have the levels of comfort and driveability that these markets expect.

“We also have to look at how we sell the vehicle in terms of logistics and establishing a dealer network.”

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Auto Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now