Tata Motors to study market for electric Indica before launch
Tata Motors today said it will start a feasibility study for introducing the electric version of its compact car Indica in the domestic market.
The company is currently developing the electric Indica with a Norway-based firm for launching the car in the European market by 2011.
Tata Motors Managing Director (India Operation) Prakash M Telang said, the company would study the market demand in the country before launching the electric Indica.
"Not at the moment. We will start (the feasibility study) closer to when we have the product ready. We will do it from next year," Telang said when asked if the company has initiated the market study.
The car's introduction in India would depend on the cost factor as it is a price sensitive market.
"We have to look into the cost equation in India. We have to see the market demand as it will be an expensive vehicle...Electricity is also not easily available in the country," Telang told reporters here.
The company had showcased the electric Indica at SIAM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers) annual convention in 2008, followed by its preview at Geneva Motor show this year.
"The vehicles should be launched in the European market by first quarter of 2011...We are looking at Norway, Denmark and the UK," Telang said.
However, he declined to comment where the car would be manufactured.
"Weather we manufacture it in India or manufacture it in Europe, that is a matter that we have to look into. It has not yet been finalised," he added.
When asked about Tata Motors reported to be exploring the possibility of buying the equity stake of Actis in commercial vehicle and bus maker Swaraj Mazda, Telang neither confirmed nor denied.
