NEW DELHI: Two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto, which plans to develop a low-cost small car in partnership with Renault-Nissan, is expected to announce the final details of the project in a “few weeks”.

The small car project, which has been widely seen as an effort to rival Tata’s Rs one lakh Nano, was earlier pursued by only Bajaj Auto Ltd (BAL) and Renault and later joined by Nissan, in which the French firm has 44.4% stake. Asked by when a final decision on the project details was expected, BAL managing director Rajiv Bajaj said: “In a few weeks”.
Continue reading →

Share This

Mumbai: Bajaj Auto is quietly finalising plans to have its concept car on display at the Delhi Auto Expo from January 10 to 17.

Top sources told DNA Money that this vehicle could see further technological developments, once the three-way joint venture between Bajaj, Renault and Nissan gets under way.

“There may not be any major changes in design and what will be shown at the Expo will be more or less the final product,” they added.

The car, with a price tag of $3000 (Rs 1.2 lakh), is scheduled to debut in 2010.

There is absolutely no indication of what the concept looks like, though speculation is rife that it has a ‘tall boy’ image on the lines of Hyundai Santro.

Of course, the biggest draw will be the Tatas’ Rs 1 lakh car, which is due to hit the market by the second half of 2008-09.

It is believed to resemble the Mercedes Smart, and sources say that, in terms of styling and design, it will be a complete winner.

The car was initially planned only with a 624cc (rear) petrol engine but an 800cc diesel has since been included.

There will be both gearless and manual transmission options and it only remains to be seen if the company can keep the price pegged at Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom).

Sources say that this is possible for the basic petrol version, which will be devoid of air-conditioning and will be a no-frills car.

Tata Motors is likely to have a mid-and top-end version for the petrol and diesel options.

Share This