Diesel car segment sees rampant growth

The diesel car segment is growing fast in India on the back of innovations inautomotive technology related to the cheaper fuel oil.

“At present, the diesel car space accounts for over 20 per cent of the market and it will continue to expand very fast,” General Motors India director (sales) Vikas Jain told Business Standard .

He said since 70 per cent of the Indian car market is dominated by small cars, all the manufacturers were trying to develop their diesel versions.

Earlier, diesel automotives were associated with high emission, engine noise and slow pickup. “Modern technology has effectively dealt with these shortcomings, while there is also favourable differential between petrol and diesel prices.”

 

However, Jain claimed that even if diesel subsidy was removed, the diesel car segment would grow due to superior engine performance. “Not only in India, but the segment has been growing in the European markets as well,” he added.

Jain was in town to launch Chevrolet Beat Diesel, which is touted as India’s most fuel-efficient car in its segment.

Its three-cylinder engine features advanced Common Rail Fuel Injection technology for better emission performance and fuel economy, while electrically controlled throttle body reduces carbon emission.

The prices of three variants range from Rs 4.37 lakh to Rs 5.55 lakh in Lucknow and it comes with three-year/100,000 km engine and vehicle warranty.