Mercedes Benz sales jump 40% in Jan-Aug

Mercedes Benz India grew by 40% during the first eight months of 2011.

"Our sales grew by 40% during the January to August period to 4,890 units in 2011 against 3,495 units during the corresponding period last year," Mercedes-Benz India Director (Sales & Marketing) Debashis Mitra said here today.

After it was dethroned by rival BMW in the numbers game, Mercedes has decided to foray into retail leasing from September for a larger share of the pie of the luxury car market.

"Individual or self leasing will open another channel of marketing for us. So far corporate leasing generates 70% of corporate sales," Mitra said on the sidelines of new C class launch.

The company will begin with C and E class models from Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai. Its group company, Mercedes Benz Financial will carry out the leasing activity, Mitra said.

Speaking about Mercedes' association with Formula 1 grand Prix in India from October 28-30, Mitra said the company would offer an opportunity for its car buyers during this and next month to experience the track known as the Buddha International Circuit.