New Suzuki Models To Widen Maruti Range

Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) is all set to launch its range of new car models, including small cars, in the Japanese market in October this year.

The launch will provide Maruti Udyog Ltd (MUL) a wider range the selection set for to choose its next model to be launched in the Indian market roughly eighteen months after its launch in Japan sometimes in the first quarter of 2000. The new models are expected to replace the existing models in the Maruti staple which include the Maruti 800, Zen and the Esteem and has put to rest speculation that the Japanese giant is not prepared for take on the new players in the market. The engineering team from MUL, which has already visited Japan to identify the new model from the Suzuki stable to be launched in India, is preparing its report on the choice of models. A senior team comprising MUL managing director RSSLN Bhaskarudu will visit Japan to take the final decision. The Japanese government has issued orders under which cars with certain specifications and dimensions in the small car segment will enjoy tax concessions. Sources say that Suzuki is coming out with its new models in October to take advantage of these specifications.

 

To take on the base model in the Zen category from Hyundai and Daewoo, MUL may launch a non-airconditioned model of the Zen. Says a senior MUL executives: "If the market requires so, we will have a non-airconditioned Zen model."

The company is also test modelling 1500 cc Puegeot engine on the Zen which is expected to be launched in the market soon. Also on the anvil is a higher end Zen model with power windows, automatic gear system and other facilities. This model will be priced above the existing upgraded Zen. The Peugeot engine is expected to be tried on other Maruti car models including the Esteem. MUL which is expanding its capacity by 1 lakh cars per annum will have the facility ready by February 1999. According to sources, the unit will be used to manufacture the old cars with old dies in the initial stages. But the dies will be changed in preparation for the new car launches.