Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has launched a premium pick-up truck Imperio, which comes with car-like comforts and features. The company has, meanwhile, discontinued its small commercial vehicle (SCV) Genio in the domestic market.
M&M has launched the pick-ups with a starting price of ₹6.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Thane) and in two versions (single cabin and double cabin). The vehicles are available in both BS-III and BS-IV options.
“This segment is not growing and growth from the rural segment continues to be a case of concern, but initiatives such as smart cities will help this product find a space…. Further, the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment has started posting growth, which is a lead indicator of the SCV segment,” said Pravin Shah, President and Chief Executive (Automotive).
The vehicle will be manufactured from its Chakan plant near Pune, with an initial production capacity of 20,000 vehicles. M&M has invested about ₹70 crore and has about 200 engineers working on the product for the past two years, he said.
Imperio, which is basically made for the Indian market, will be exported to Sri Lanka and South-East Asia markets if required, he added.
The vehicle comes with radial tubeless tyres, power windows, independent front suspension for a fatigue-free drive, follow-me-home lights, keyless entry and plush interiors. The vehicle has a load carrying capacity of 1,240 kg.
The vehicle is powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with common rail technology, delivers 75 horsepower, with a torque 220 Nm. The vehicle can touch a top speed of 120 kmph and a mileage of 13.55 km per litre. The vehicle also comes with a warranty of three years or one lakh km, whichever is earlier.
The single cabin version of BS-III models are priced between ₹6.25 lakh and ₹6.60 lakh (all ex-showroom, Thane) and BS-IV version will be priced between ₹6.40 lakh and ₹6.75 lakh (all ex-showroom, Mumbai).