General Motors India (GMI) has set the date July 25, 2011 for launching the diesel variant of Chevrolet Beat in the Indian market. Taking into account the fluctuations in fuel prices in India, the car, with its engine capacity and fuel economy, will significantly affect the small car segment in India, says Mr. Karl Slym, President and Managing Director, General Motors India.
The company has been doubling its growth rate in India and is expected to sell about 1,40,000 cars in 2011 across all variants in comparison to 1,10,000 cars sold in 2010, a jump of nearly 30% and much higher than the industry growth average. Mr. Slym said that the company has just inaugurated the 250th dealership and considering the demand for its cars in the rural area, it plans to increase sales and service locations to 300 by the end of year 2011.
The Halol unit in Gujarat currently produces 1,00,000 cars annually and has a capacity to produce another 1,40,000 cars. Also, the Talegaon unit in Maharashtra in the first phase has a capacity to produce 1,40,000 units annually. After the completion of the second phase in about 18 months, the total production capacity of the Talegaon unit would reach 3,00,000 units per annum.
As of now, the company has made an investment of approximately Rs. 6,670 crore in India and another Rs. 1,112 crore each would be invested in both its manufacturing plants by the end of year 2013, says Mr. Slym.
