According to recent reports, Mahindra & Mahindra is working on new platforms for SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) and LCVs (Light Commercial Vehicles). The main aim is to launch new models based on these platforms for increasing market share in the Indian automobile market. Mahindra & Mahindra is one of the leading names in the country when it comes to utility vehicles. As per available information, the auto company is currently developing new platforms that will be used in its future LCVs. It is also looking forward to finalise new platforms for its next generation models of Scorpio, Bolero and Xylo.
Earlier, there was news about the company's R&D wing, Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), working on four new platforms for both, small & light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and sport utility vehicles. The research department is likely to reap the reward of hard work by 2015 and likely so, one can expect the auto company to start rolling out new models in 2016. The same has already been confirmed by the Executive Director (Automotive & Farm Equipment), Mahindra & Mahindra, Pawan Goenka as well. He reportedly said, “We have already started working on these platforms. We are the leaders in the UV segment and these new platforms will enable us to maintain our leadership position going forward. We want to ensure that we have good products in the sub-segment of our existing line ups, of course, entirely in new platforms.” Goenka also stated that the auto company is looking ahead to develop a LCV by 2016 in order to target products of Tata Motors. He mentioned, “Every time we launched a new product, we learnt that we need to have more products no matter what sub-segments they would fall in.”
Interestingly, Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) in Chennai, that has been mentioned here, was inaugurated by Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam in April 2012. This R&D wing of Mahindra & Mahindra is also credited for the design and development of vehicles like XUV500, Verito and Quanto. Imperative to say, it will play a crucial role in the future too for the company through high-end research works. Currently, this R&D wing is developing new platforms to be used in future launches. One must note that all models in sub-3.5 tonne range are being developed at Mahindra Research Valley facility. However, those above 3.5 tonnes get into the company’s R&D facility in Pune.
The auto company wants to get a strong foot hold on the sports utility vehicle segment. It is planning to launch a compact utility vehicle in the Indian auto market in order to challenge the reign of segment leading vehicles like Ford EcoSport. One can also expect to see a facelift version of Mahindra Scorpio being introduced in the market with improved interiors by the end of 2014. However, any confirmation about the date is yet to come from the company's side.
