Mercedes-Benz India is set to roll out four more models this year.
The German luxury automotive company had announced its plan to launch 12 new models during 2016, and thus far, introduced eight models.
Roland S Folger, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The first nine months this year have been exciting and the volumes continue to be strong in spite of the uncertainty created by the regulatory environment, particularly with regard to diesel vehicles in the Capital Delhi region.”
“We have sold more than 9,927 vehicles during the first nine months in spite of the problems we have had to face with regard to diesel cars in Delhi. Last year (2015 January-December), we sold 13,502 cars, registering a growth of over 32 per cent over previous year. If the current numbers are any indication, while we do not forecast numbers, we may end up at about the same numbers we achieved in 2015,” he said.
GST impact Referring to the impact of Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is to be implemented from April 2017, he said: “We are still not clear as to the impact of the GST implementation on the automotive sector, that is whether the prices will be lower or higher. Secondly, the GST implementation will also impact the suppliers. Therefore, we need to wait and watch as to its impact and accordingly, we will have to plan for the future.”
“To some extent, the diesel ban has been offset by increase in petrol car volumes. The numbers could have been much more but for the diesel engine-related issues. As a part of our plan, we have created a strong portfolio of petrol cars in the same segment, where diesel cars were available, thereby, providing an option for the buyers,” he said.
New dealership Speaking after the launch of a new dealership, Silver Star in Hyderabad, he said on Day One, the dealership will deliver about 30 Mercs, a record in itself.
Amith Reddy, Managing Director, Silver Star, said they invested about ₹37 crore in the new dealership spread over 70,000 sq ft and draw from experience of managing other dealerships.
Merc had announced plans to add 10 new dealers during the year, and thus far, commissioned seven, with three more to be added soon. Merc in India has a network of about 87 outlets.
Referring to the Bharat Stage VI norms, Folger said they were ready to roll out their entire range of diesel and petrol cars by 2018 itself, ahead of the scheduled plan.
Folger said they have rolled out nine models made in India, with localisation of over 60 per cent.
“Our manufacturing plant near Chakan set up with ₹1000 crore is future ready with a capacity to generate 20,000 units per annum. If need be this can be further enhanced.”
The luxury car market in the country had overall sales of 38,00 units in 2015, up 28 per cent over 2014.