India is set to become the world’s third largest auto market by 2020, and it’s surely attracting several new auto players from around the globe. Though there are several international players who are planning to enter the Indian market, Hyundai Group-owned Kia Motor and SAIC-owned MG Motor are two of the most anticipated players. While Kia had showcased its global lineup at the 2018 Auto Expo, MG Motor today held its first-ever press conference in Delhi to announce its business plans.
The company plans to invest Rs 2,000 crore in the Indian market, and this amount will be used to upgrade its Halol plant which was earlier owned by General Motors. And in the next 5 years time, the total investment would cross Rs 5,000 crore. The British camraker has already initiated talks with various suppliers to achieve high levels of localisation. And it has also started inviting potential dealer partners for its dealer road shows taking place in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru between March 28 to April 16.
Now coming back to the product strategy, the first MG vehicle to go on sale in India will be a SUV since that’s the fastest growing segment here. Though the company hasn’t announced the name of the product, it will most probably be a compact SUV to rival Hyundai Creta. And when we asked the company officials if it would be a global product or an entirely new product for India, they hinted at a global product that would be developed at the company’s Halol plant with high levels of localisation. And if speculations are to be believed, it’s the MG ZS that is coming to India first.
MG ZS SUV Picture Gallery
As far as the launch is concerned, it is likely to be ahead of the schedule in the second quarter of 2019. Interestingly, MG Motor India plans to introduce one new vehicle every year. As a matter of fact, SAIC-owned company is also contemplating of launching new energy vehicles in future. Read – Upcoming MG Cars in India
Rajeev Chaba, President & Managing Director, MG Motor India, said, “The MG brand seeks to embrace the incredible technology of the future while cherishing its great British heritage. We are moving forward swiftly on our India strategy and building a strong organisation to embrace the future. Our aim is to provide vehicles that will be new-age and very contemporary, with a premium image and great value.”
Latest Video – Upcoming Car Brands In India
