The Italian car major, Fiat is all set to go places in India. It is planning a huge comeback in the Indian automobile market and plans to launch around 8 cars in the next 2 years, 2008-2009. A decade ago, its Ranjangaon plant near Pune was set up but there were hardly any productions. Now, this unit is going to be alive and rocking with activity due to the major expansion program planned by Fiat India.
Fiat is all set to launch car models from its global portfolio like the two-door Cinquecento (European best seller), the Linea, Palio Multijet and even Ferrari. It is also refurbishing its sales and service network, which was supposed to be the aspect where Fiat used to fumble earlier. Fiat India is expected to start hiring very rapidly to fasten the production, promotions and sales. At present, the Ranjangaon plant makes two versions of the Palio. In 2008, we will have a third version with the multijet engine technology.
The biggest surprise given by Fiat is that it has opted to produce CBU, i.e. Completely Built Units. This can be expected to be seen even in small evocative hatchbacks. This is the first time anyone has decided to tread this path for brand building. India will soon have a treat for all Fiat worshippers with as much many as six cars being launched this year. Given below is a small briefing on some of the anticipated cars.
Fiat Palio 1.3
The Fiat Palio 1.3 Stile hatchback is powered by the superior 1.3 Multijet engine, the same one that works in the award-winning Suzuki Swift DDiS model. It has a price tag of around Rs 4.5 lakh and is supposed to be the short-term model for Fiat in India, before the launch of all-new Palio based on the previous generation Punto floorpan around 2009.
Fiat Grande Punto
One of the leading cars of Europe, the Fiat plans to launch the Grand Punto in India as well. Not only is the car comfortable and spacious, it is powered by the multijet engine for excellent performance. Priced at Rs 5-5.5 lakhs, this car is sure to make all prospective buyers reach for their cheque books as soon as possible.
Fiat Linea
Based on the concept of the Punto, the Fiat Linea is another car which is at par with excellence. It offers a very smooth ride, decent performance and the fuel economy is worth applauding for. This car will be priced at approximately Rs 7.5 - 8 lakhs, making it quite a steal.
Fiat Alfa
This is one such car that can easily compete against BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and the Audi A4 in India. Complete with sleek exteriors and comfortable interiors, the Alfa will make automobile lovers and critics smile with pride. It will be introduced with quite a heavy price tag of around Rs. 28 lakhs and its sale will hugely depend on Indian road conditions and the company’s service back-up.
