The Hindu Business Line : Mercedes-Benz A-Class may drive into India

NEW DELHI: Global automotive major Mercedes-Benz on Thursday said it is evaluating a possibility for introducing its small range A-Class car in India. The company would also introduce series of new models of hybrid vehicles in the global market.

“We are evaluating the Indian market regarding price positioning and overall perception of the company as far as the A-Class range is concerned. However, we have not taken any decision so far whether and when to introduce the A-Class car in India,'' Merc edes Benz COO, Mr Rainer Schmuckle told reporters on the sidelines of the 48th SIAM Annual Convention 2008 here.

He said market conditions in India are quite dynamic and the luxury-car market is growing by 30-40 per cent annually.

“Although, during recent months the growth has slowed down a bit, we are hopeful that the drive will resume within the next 12-18 months,'' Mr Schmuckle said.

Mercedes-Benz is also planning to bring out a series of new hybrid models. It is introducing new S-Class hybrid car in the global market in 2009, which would be followed by a series of more such vehicles in 2010 and 2011, he added.

He, however, refused to disclose whether the new hybrid models would be introduced in India also.

“Electrification, investment in fuel cells and improving existing internal combustion engines are big priority areas for our company's R&D and we are committed to offer our customers the most fuel-efficient vehicles, which are at the same time a luxury a nd has the aspect of beauty,'' he said. - PTI

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