Indian auto industry is flooded with small cars, which caters to the variegated demands of typical Indian buyers. The small car segment of Indian industry is currently dominated by Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), which is titled as largest car manufacturer in India. Fiscal 2012 was a remarkable year for the Indian auto industry as it witnessed many ups and downs. The industry came into limelight with brilliant launches like Mahindra XUV 500, the value for money car and Hyundai’s entry level car Eon, amidst stiff competition.
In addition to these launches, the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo enthralled audience with its magnificent unveilings. The show presented Chevrolet Enjoy, Nissan Evalia and Maruti Ertiga, which was launched on 12th April 2012. Along with these delightful offerings, the industry also faced not so good times. Just a mere labour strike at MSIL’s production plant impacted figures of the entire auto industry. Thereafter, hike in fuel prices and interest rates catalyzed the whole scenario.
As per the reports by Sunil Kakkar, General Manager (Supply Chain), MSIL, the auto industry of India is counted among the top ten, across the world. The two-wheeler segment is placed at second position, whereas the small car industry has grabbed third stand. The Utility Vehicle (UV) segment recently welcomed the launch of Maruti Ertiga, which was a much-awaited car by the Indian buyers. It has been competitively tagged with a price of Rs. 5.8 lacs (base variant), which has been happily accepted by the Indian buyers, and thus the company received advance bookings of 11,000 vehicles in just five days.
Eyeing to deliver a tough competition, Ford will soon come-up with its EcoSport. The production version of EcoSport was showcased at Beijing Auto Show, whose glimpse was seen at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. The car will hold decent features and an efficient engine, which will together take its price ranging from Rs. 6 lacs to Rs. 10 lacs.
Taking account of demands for luxuries and advanced features, the industry offers Toyota Fortuner, which remains parallel with high-end standards. Since its launch in 2009, Toyota has reported its cumulative sales of 30,000 units. Another most successful model of Toyota in UV segment of Indian industry is Innova, whose sales figures are also quite lucrative for the company. Since its launch in 2005, the overall sales figures of Innova stood at 328,000 units, which were fairly impressive. Both of these cars helped the company expand its presence and business in the Indian market.
As far as small cars are concerned, the market is ruled by MSIL with brands like Alto, which is counted among the best sellers in Indian market. In addition, Ritz is considered as a best entry level diesel engine car, which has decent emissions and appealing comforts that are demanded by typical Indian buyers. Away from Alto, another best option which comes in concern is Hyundai i10, which is reviewed as ‘more comfortable in city rather than highway’. Efficiently competing with i10, Chevrolet Beat has also carved a special niche in the hearts of auto aficionados. Fascinating design, powerful 1.2L engine and appealing features are some USPs of Beat.
In addition to i10, Hyundai has also offered iconic Santro Xing, which has pulled a large number of masses. Features like economical pricing, charming designing and accepted features have made this car to emerge amid best-sellers of Indian industry. However, the company has also launched a small car, Eon, which remains parallel with the requirements of low income family group. The car boasts numerous standard features at a fairly low cost. Owing to this, it has emerged as a strong competitor of Maruti Alto.
