Mitsubishi’s Compact Car heading to India:- BSM

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, the Japanese auto major is present in India for decades together now. Unfortunately they are still struggling to make their mass presence in  our market. This situation  may change in two–three years down the line. If  BSM’s report is to be believed Mitsubishi has decied to bring their Thailand built compact car to India by 2012-2013. In recent times  Indian hatchback segment is witnessing  vigorous activities. For the last few months we saw many products debuted here and most of them are doing very well. Naturally Mitsubishi too wants to test the success in this segments.

“We can no longer afford to ignore the Indian market. We cannot have a foot-hold in India if we do not have a presence in the small car segment. So, this is not just going to be a logical extension for us but a very crucial one, too. We are exploring ways to tune the ‘eco car’ we are building in Thailand for India,” said the source related to the development.

Months before we had reported about Mitsubishi eco car which being developed in Thailand in association with government agencies. Mitsubishi is building a huge facility for manufacturing small car in Thailand. The estimated capacity if this plant is 200,000 units, out of which around  70% is supposed to be exported to different countries in the region. The Mitsubishi Eco car as name suggests, is expected to return greater fuel economy with lower emission figures.

But the bad news is Mitsubishi’s compact car offering will be landing in Indian shores through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route. That means they may not be cost effective as other offerings present here. Mitsubishi products are always maintaining a clear distinction from their competition. Mitsubishi may want to do the same with their upcoming compact car too. Company is considering their Chennai factory as assembly location for their compact  car. We think Mitsubishi will start selling of their  Eco car here by bringing kits from Thailand later they consider building a new plant as volume grows.  

“The attitude (of Mitsubishi) towards India has changed ever since the financial recovery began last year. We do not wish to waste any more time. There were several issues which were unattended due to lack of participation from HM,” said a senior executive from Mitsubishi Motors.

Looks like Mitsubishi Motors has got a promising plan for India. Stay with us for more updates on Mitsubishi India’s compact car program.

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