Concepts steal Delhi show
E-vehicles, hybrids and eco- friendly technology took centre stage at the inaugural day of the biennial Auto Expo, with Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, M&M, new entrant Kia Motors, Mercedes-Benz and BMW displaying their future products. Keeping in mind the government's vision of 100 per cent electric vehicles (EVs) for public mobility and 40 per cent for personal mobility by 2030, the companies committed to put investments into the new technology while also seeking support and clarity on policies.
The Expo witnessed 65 unveilings and 14 launches, including Hyundai's new Elite i20, Mercedes’ Maybach S650 priced at Rs 2.73 crore and the unveiling of Toyota's mid-sized sedan Yaris and Honda's all-new Amaze, SUV CR-V and premium sedan Civic that will make a comeback to the Indian market.
Maruti Suzuki India unveiled the concept model of its electric compact sport utility vehicle e-SURVIVOR at the 2018 Auto Expo, in the national capital. The concept electric car has autonomous driving capability, among other features. Renault India, which unveiled a slew of models from its global portfolio, said it is hopeful of meeting its medium and long-term targets wherein it plans to double volumes and market share.
Tata Motors unveiled two concept vehicles, a luxury SUV and a premium hatchback, besides showcasing six electric vehicles in the mass and personal mobility segments. Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) unveiled six new electric concept vehicles and models as it showcased its strategy to shape the 'Future of Mobility'. The company also lifted the cover on South Korean arm SsangYong's G4 Rexton SUV, which will be launched in the Indian market later this year under the Mahindra badge.
Apart from various launches and the unveiling of new products by various twowheeler makers, the first pre-open day of the Auto Expo 2018 saw the official entry of Kawasaki into the Indian market. Meanwhile, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India unveiled a total of 11 two-wheelers, including a new 160 cc motorcycle, ‘X-Blade’. The remaining launches were 2018 versions of 10 of Honda’s existing two-wheeler models. "The X-Blade prices will be announced closer to its market availability in March 2018," the company said. Hero MotoCorp unveiled a 200cc adventure motorcycle ‘Xpulse’. It also unveiled two scooters – ‘Maestro Edge 125’ and ‘Duet 125’.