Italian automotive major Fiat is upbeat on India as it lines up more models and brands and taps new segments. Fiat Group Automobiles India Pvt Ltd, the fully-owned subsidiary of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, has launched its new Linea sedan, Punto Evo hatch and Avventura so far in 2014 and plans to add Abarth 500 to its portfolio by December.

The four new models are just the beginning of a slew of other launches as the carmaker enters untapped segments with new models and brands from its global portfolio.

Nagesh Basavanahalli, President and MD, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, India operations, said: “Fiat is optimistic about its business prospects in India with the launch of new models and is now in the process of consolidating the brand and business.”

Launching Avventura, which Fiat describes as a Contemporary Urban Vehicle (CUV) in Hyderabad, he said the company plans to replicate the success it has had in the Europe, North and South America.

He told Business Line : “Fiat has embarked on a three-pillar strategy as a part of the company’s effort to go solo in India after it parted ways with Tata Motors. This includes exclusive showrooms and service centres, a big brand-building exercise, launch of new products and enhancement of customer service. In a short while, we have set up 125 dealerships across 24 States.”

“Fiat has enhanced the ownership experience and we have made access to spare parts easier and more affordable in the B and C Class segments,” he explained.

“We have a five-year strategy plan and are committed to the Indian market. Fiat has drawn a perspective plan for growth in the Asia Pacific region and we are now on course towards achieving the short-term and long-term objectives,” he said.

The company has capacity to produce 1,60,000 units in the Ranjangaon plant in Maharashtra for Fiat and Tata products. Currently, 40 per cent of the capacity is being utilised. Further capacity utilisation will hinge on market conditions and orders received from dealers.

“With our back-end for growth in place, a 360-degree advertising campaign and the introduction of new products, we are optimistic of the future and hope to end with better numbers,” he said.

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