Auto explosion
A dizzy array of some 60 new cars, bikes and commercial vehicles are likely to be launched next week at Delhi’s Auto Expo. Despite fuel price uncertainties, high interest rates and a shortage of diesel models India’s auto demand remains very strong. During the first eight months of the year, according to SIAM data, commercial vehicles grew by 20 per cent, two-wheelers by 16 per cent and passenger vehicles should have been the same if it had not been for petrol prices putting brakes on car demand. All the global brands are now in India as they know it is the world’s second largest bike market, the fourth largest commercial vehicle market and is headed to being among the top six car markets.
Maruti- Suzuki will have the largest pavilion where the stars might be a range of Suzuki bikes, a new Ertiga multi purpose vehicle, a compact SUV, an upgraded Swift and a new small car to replace the ageing Maruti 800. The second largest display will be from Tata Motors with their huge range of trucks and buses as well as the Jaguar and Land Rover brands plus a new Tata saloon, a face lifted Safari and possibly a diesel powered Nano. To compete with the latter Bajaj might venture into the four-wheel segment with their long awaited low cost car. Mahindra & Mahindra will certainly flaunt their very successful XUV 500 plus a four seater Reva electric car and a mini Xylo. Hyundai will also showcase a compact SUV, a crossover UV the Velostar and possibly new models of the Elantra and Sonata saloons.
The Toyota range will feature a face lifted Fortuner SUV with automatic gears while
Volkswagen may display a new Toureg SUV. The star at Ford will be the new version of the EcoSport compact SUV that had done so well in Mexico with possibly a Fiesta hatchback. Chevrolet are likely to showcase their Sail small saloon that may replace the Aveo. Nissan will have their NV 200 utility vehicle. Renault will certainly display their large hatchback, the Pulse, as well as the medium sized Duster SUV. Their French rival Peugeot with Citroen will also display their wares for the first time. There will be several exciting entries in the luxury segment. BMW will definitely display the iconic Mini while Mercedes-Benz will show a brilliant looking A Classe small saloon and Audi will introduce an aggressive A3 model.
The writer is an automotive expert and the former editor of a national magazine
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