According to the company sources, the launch of the new variants marks the company's entry into highly competitive multi-utility segment. This sector, which caters to the rural and semi-urban segment, is estimated to produce about 3,000 vehicles annually. "Our vehicles have been targeted mainly at poultry, fertiliser, seeds farmers and consumer goods distributors. Both people and public can be transported simultaneously," the company official said.

The company, under technical collaboration with Mercedes Benz of Germany, priced the 3-seater Pickup at Rs 2.99 lakh and its 6-seater Dual Cabin Pickup at Rs 3.17 lakh (both ex-showroom prices), which are cheaper by Rs 15,000 compared to competitors' price, the official said.

The technically most advanced versions compared to others have salient features like 1.25 tonne payload capacity, pressed steel body, FRP hard top for pickup, option of direct speed engine with 4-speed gearbox facility, unmatched warranty and a service package.

"With the advanced powerful engine and proven record on the rough road applications, we are a generation ahead of our competitors," the official said, and added our vehicles will conform to the Euro I, II pollution norms.

For the first time in the industry, Bajaj Tempo has introduced mobile service training van equipped with audio visual aids, special tools, cut section models, to train not only dealers but also the public, the source added.