While one may be inclined to believe that Fiat has been dormant in India with no exciting launches lined up for this year or decade for that matter. But the truth be told, Italian carmaker has been working extremely hard behind the stage to set up a vast dealership network ever since its distribution arrangement with Tata Motors came to an end on March 31, 2013. With just 1% market share since the split, Fiat had vowed to open 100 exclusive showrooms that were to be operational by the end of 2013. And even if a month late, seems like the company is keen on keeping its promise as it recently inaugurated its 100th exclusive dealership in India.
In just one year, the company has set up 100 independent dealerships across 22 states and 80 cities. And out of these 100 dealerships, 41 are located in Northern India, while 29, 22 and 8 outlets are distributed all over Southern, Western and Eastern regions of the country, respectively. Fiat also announced a new initiative called “Fiat Century Drive” in celebration of its 100th dealership. This initiative will include the following: a digital contest for Fiat fans, customers will receive a discount of Rs. 100 for every Rs. 1000 spent on workshop labour, and a nationwide free check-up camp for Fiat cars. The other service being offered is ‘Amico’ an effort to introduce owners to their vehicles in detail.
Other than that, the company’s plans for 2014 include a handful of new vehicles with the debut of Chrysler’s Jeep (Grand Cherokee and Wrangler) in the sub-continent being the biggest of them all. These impeccable SUVs will be showcased at the upcoming 2014 Delhi Auto Expo.
