Chinese vehicle manufacturer SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Co Ltd will introduce its low-cost pick-up vans in India, which can be priced between 3,000-4,000 dollar within next two years.
The company is currently scouting for partners to set up a joint venture for exporting low-cost vehicles through completely built unit (CBU) route to India and is holding discussions with some leading market players there.
“There is a huge market for low-cost vans in India, considering the large chunk of people living in the rural areas. We are seriously considering to introduce our vehicles there as soon as possible,” SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Co Ltd (SGMW) Commercial Section Manager (Overseas Business Department) Jason Ding said at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show.
“We are hopeful that export of a CBU from our Chinese plants to India will start in two years. The price range of such vehicles are usually 3,000-4,000 dollar,” he said, adding the company would first export only a single model with right-hand steering and gasoline engine.
He said the company is currently in talks with General Motors, which is its partner in the Chinese venture, besides some other Indian manufacturers for introducing the low-cost pick-up vans there.
GM holds 34 per cent stake in SGMW, along with Shanghai Automobile Industry and Liuzhou Wuling Automobile Co Ltd, which hold 50.1 per cent and 15.9 per cent respectively.
Ding further said depending upon the demand from the customers, the company may consider setting up a manufacturing facility in India with the JV partner.
