Same Deutz-Fahr to make Ranipet its export hub

Same Deutz-Fahr India, part of the Same Deutz-Fahr group of Italy, is planning to make Ranipet, 125 km from Chennai, its export hub.

The manufacturer of tractors, engines and agricultural machinery entered India in 2005 by setting up a manufacturing plant at Ranipet. So far, the company has invested around Rs 88 crore in the plant.

SAME Deutz-Fahr India managing director Shirpad Shidore said the company would export tractors in the range of 35-70 HP and components - engines and transmission. It is also planning to double its capacity at Ranipet with an investment of Rs 25 crore by 2011. The current production capacity is 6,300 tractors per annum.

Last year, the company exported 1,500 units to the US and Europe and has set a target to double the figure for the current calendar year. The Ranipet facility will cater to markets like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and African countries.

During 2009, the company is planning to invest another Rs 25 crore for upgrading the facility, he said.

The company on Wednesday launched Deutz Fahr Agrolux tractors, which are priced at around Rs 4.5 lakh

Vijay Raina, chief executive officer, SAME Deutz-Fahr (North America), said focus would be on 40 HP range tractors. The company would target states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh.