The Hyderabad District Consumer Commission has directed Tata Select Motors to refund the price of a Tata Harrier EV and take back the vehicle from the consumer after the SUV allegedly faced repeated technical snags. The commission also awarded ₹50,000 compensation and ₹15,000 towards litigation cost to the buyers.
The commission, headed by President B Uma Venkata Subba Lakshmi along with members C Lakshmi Prasanna and B Raji Reddy, passed its order on September 7.
M/s Refrigeration Equipment and Solutions, a Hyderabad-based partnership firm, had purchased the premium electric SUV for nearly ₹28 lakh from Tata Select Motors on August 1, 2025. The vehicle was partially financed through a loan.
The consumer alleged that the car repeatedly faced problems such as starting failures, smart-key and central locking problems days after the vehicle was delivered. The smart key sometimes went beyond its range, and the vehicle failed to detect it.
The central locking system malfunctioned repeatedly, with the complainant claiming it occurred four times within a month of purchasing. The vehicle reportedly broke down multiple times while being driven and stopped while in traffic.
Media reports indicate that the dealer initially said the starting problem was just a “software glitch” and assured the consumer that the vehicle was otherwise fine. The complainant alleged that the problems continued despite multiple repairs, eventually leading to them seeking a replacement of the SUV.
The complainant sought a refund of ₹29,29,395 along with ₹10 lakh as compensation for mental agony caused and alleged harassment from the dealer.
The authorised dealer dismissed the complaint, arguing there was no deficiency in service, citing an expert’s report. They highlighted that the initial issue was solved promptly and that the central lock system was replaced under warranty. The dealer also said it was a middleman and noted that the actual manufacturer was not included in the case.
After examining the evidence produced by both sides, the commission noted that the dealer had acknowledged the issues reported by the consumer in the early days of the problem. The service history also showed repeated complaints.
However, the court said that compensation of ₹10 lakh is not fair and settled for ₹50,000. The refunded amount and compensation are to be paid within 45 days. If it crosses the date, a 9 per cent annual interest rate from the date of the order will be added until payment.
