Pune-based Force Motors has signed a licence agreement with Daimler AG, under which the latter will supply technology for the development of a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) by the home-grown automaker.
Due for launch by end-2012, the MPV will be the second product in the new passenger vehicle range being planned by Force Motors — the first model being Force One SUV due next month.
“Daimler has licensed the technology to Force for an MPV. This comprehensive supply of product technology will facilitate the entry of Force into the segment of passenger and goods vehicles, which is adjacent to its current product line of the ‘Traveller' light commercial vehicles,” a company statement said.
Germany-based Daimler, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, has already licensed technology for a 2.2-litre diesel engine to Force Motors and has assisted the company in product development. Force is also a contract manufacturer of engines and axles for Mercedes-Benz India.
Force Motors is in dialogue with the Madhya Pradesh Government for setting up a plant in Pithampur to make the MPV. The production is expected to start with approximately 24,000 vehicles a year.