The Hindu Business Line : Mahindra unveils Scorpio hybrid, 3-wheeler Alfa

The M&M President for the automotive sector, Dr Pawan Goenka, told presspersons that it would take another three to four years for the Scorpio hybrid variant to hit the roads. "The green machine is currently at a work-in-progress stage," Dr Goenka said.

The Scorpio hybrid concept vehicle will incorporate common rail technology along with fuel-saving technology of an electric motor. The vehicle gives 15-16 km per litre delivering up to 600-700 km on one tank of fuel. The vehicle is propelled by using CRDe (common rail diesel engine) and an electric transaxle supported by a traction battery. This helps the vehicle to provide better fuel economy and lower transmission, while giving the benefit of a full hybrid performance.

Dr Goenka said M&M would also launch customised vehicles of its models. Scorpio Passion is a race-inspired wide body styling, while Scorpio CEO is aimed at top executives and will have laptops with GPRS facility. The Bolero Commando concept will have four-doors with 16 inch tyres.

Plans CKD operations in Russia

M&M is planning a CKD (completely knocked down) operation of its Scorpio vehicles in Russia and will scout for an equity partner for a venture there.

Dr Goenka said that the company has sold 100 Scorpios so far in Russia as CBUs (completely built units). "Once the test-marketing is over, we will look at CKD operations there," he said. Scorpio is sold under the brand name, Mahindra Marshal, in Russia.

He said M&M might consider floating a joint venture for its operations in Russia with the Indian company holding a majority stake. M&M has so far exported 2,500 units of Scorpios.

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