Monday, March 12, 2012
By Manoj Kumawat
Nissan small car in a joint venture with Ashok Leyland after two years
Nissan Motors, the Japanese car maker has today stated that it is going to introduce an entry-level small car which will be manufactured in a joint venture with Indian commercial vehicle manufacturer, Ashok Leyland. This car is going to be introduced in the domestic auto-market by 2014 and the company is planning to launch in the range of Rs. 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh. Ashok Leyland Stile, an MPV, was showcased at Delhi Auto Expo 2012.
At the 82nd Geneva Motors Show, Andy Palmer, Vice President, Nissan Motor Executive stated that they are currently working on different options to introduce entry level products in the Indian auto market and at present they along with Ashok Leyland are working on the development of an entry level car at the engineering department of Ashok Leyland. He added that the company is subjecting to launch this car by 2014 in the Indian sub-continent and they will bring this car in the competitive price range of Rs. 2 -4 lakh.
| See More Nissan Micra Photos | Get Nissan Micra Price |
However, the company has not yet disclosed, the engine to be used in this small car. At present, Nissan Micra is the only small car available in the auto-maker’s portfolio which is available in the range of Rs 4.14 lakh and Rs 6.26 lakh (Ex-showroom New Delhi). The Micra is offered to the domestic small car buyers in 1198 cc petrol and 1461 cc diesel engine options.
At present, Nissan is in collaboration with Ashok Leyland to manufacture light commercial vehicles in the Indian market. However, Ashok Leyland earlier confirmed that they have no plans to enter into the passenger segment and would only be associated with Nissan for manufacturing commercial vehicles.
