Renault to set up Independent Dealerships in India

As Mahindra-Renault joint venture of 4 years nears its end (due to the differences between the two companies on the pricing and engineering issues), Renault will be launching independent dealerships across the country. The number of cities that Renault will open its own dealerships is still under review.

Currently, MRPL (Mahindra-Renault) has 100-odd dealerships, which sell their low-cost mid-size sedan, Logan, across the country. If Renault were to go independent, MRPL dealerships would continue to sell Logan, said a couple of dealers.

Renault revealed in January plans to launch its own brands and set up an independent distribution network in India next year. The announcement confirmed talk of an imminent breakup of the JV, already under strain after the shrinking sales of Logan, which now sells just around 500 units a month from a peak of 2,200. Due to this, MRPL has been forced to cut down production at its Nashik plant, which has a capacity to make 50,000 Logans.

The Renault-Nissan combine also has alliances with two-wheeler maker Bajaj Auto for developing an ultra low-cost car, and with Ashok Leyland for light commercial vehicles.

Mahindra Renault to launch revamped Logan

Mahindra Renault, the 51:49 joint venture that makes the mid- sized sedan, Logan, is taking a relook at its current single-product portfolio due to a sharp fall in sales.

Among the options being considered is a makeover of the existing product for which the JV (Joint Venture) will also see fund infusion from both equity partners.

As part of a product revamp, Renault is learnt to be giving the Logan a facelift and adapting the product to the new emission norms coming into effect in 2010.

However, the exact date of the launch is not yet known. Stay Tuned for updates!

Mahindra Two-Wheelers’ plans for Indian Youth

Mahindra two-wheelers has chalked out an aggressive plan for the Indian two-wheeler segment for the next year.

The company has decided to roll out products that are inclined towards not only the fair sex, but youth in general.

The Flyte 125 was reintroduced sometime back and is currently selling around 3000-3500 units per month.

The next step that MTW has taken is to scrap the 165cc Blaze scooter as it feels high capacity scooters don’t have a market in India. The company also wants to axe the Italjet line-up and will focus on SYM offerings for the time being.

Mahindra is also looking at launching a completely new scooter in conjunction with SYM later this year.

Mahindra and Mahindra’s Pik-up to sell in US – Feb 2010 onwards

Automobile major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) plans to start production of its utility vehicle 'Pik-up' for the US market by the end of this year and commence its sales by February next year.

The 2009 Mahindra Pick Up

Acc to Mahindra and Mahindra President (Automotive sector) Pawan Goenka,

"We will start production of Mahindra 'Pik-up' utility vehicle by December this year for the US and by end-February next year, the vehicle will be sold there (in the US)"

M&M’s Bolero MaxiTruck launched in AP

Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) today launched the Bolero MaxiTruck in Andhra Pradesh. The vehicle is priced at Rs 3.44 lakh (ex-showroom Hyderabad) and uses the micro hybrid technology.

M&M Scorpio Pickup Truck [old]

The new Bolero Maxitruck features stylish front look of the Bolero. The distinctive front grill gives the vehicle a masculine yet aesthetic face.

The Bolero MaxiTruck is the first product in the 'Pick-Up' category to offer the revolutionary micro hybrid technology which has been pioneered by Mahindra in India.

Micro hybrid technology is based on the principle of not burning fuel when it is not required. The vehicle automatically detects moments during the journey when the vehicle is idle and stops the engine. This conserves fuel, leading to reduced running costs and reduced emissions.

Pictures of the Maxitruck coming soon ..