Daimler promises a new variant every month

CHENNAI, February 21, 2013



Undeterred by the "worst environment the market has seen in the last 50 years", Daimler India Commercial Vehicles plans to truck on with its strategy, and launch one truck variant a month over the next 17 months from its Oragadam plant near here.



"Despite the shady and extremely challenging truck market, we have not reduced our production plan. Our next launches will include 9 -12 tonne vehicles and tractor trailers," said Marc Llistosella, Managing Director and CEO, Daimler India, a wholly-owned subsidiary of German truck-maker Daimler AG.



The company's market share, at present, ranges between 8 and 36 per cent, depending on the region.



"We are here to create a permanent institution. We expected a slow entry, and once we enter all categories, we will make our mark. Remember, we aren't selling only our products; we are selling ourselves as well. For us, repeat orders are vital," he said, while addressing reporters at the launch of three light-duty trucks in the 9 to 12 tonne range. Last year, close to 3 lakh trucks of various categories were sold in India.



This number, he said, is expected to hit nearly 5 lakh in a couple of years. "Last September, we delivered on our first promise with our heavy-duty trucks. This year, in addition to the new launches, we will also ramp up our dealer network to 80 from the present 32," he said.
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