After making a big impact on the autorickshaw segment in India with the petrol, LPG and CNG-powered Apé City, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. (PVPL) has recently unveiled a diesel engined variant, Apé Xtra DLX model. PVPL’s diesel autorickshaw will join the long list of diesel-powered three-wheeler passenger vehicles that are now sold in India.
The company currently controls 32-33 per cent market share in the three-wheeler segment in India. “The all-new Apé Xtra DLX model will help Piaggio in consolidating its leadership position in the three-wheeler market”, stressed Mr. Stefano Pelle, CEO of Piaggio India Pvt. Ltd.
According to PVPL, the vehicle has been revamped completely for better ride quality and increased performance. The Xtra DLX model comes with wider passenger cabins, additional luggage space, toughened chassis, better paint treatment, appealing interiors and sturdy reinforced exteriors.
If a customer is not convinced with all the above said feature, he surely will we be with 38 kmpl mileage that this vehicle is expected to deliver.
During the launch event, Mr. Hardip Singh Goindi, Executive Vice-President, CV Business, PVPL, said major growth driver for this newly launched diesel variant is expected to be from semi-urban and rural areas of India where they serve as vital cogs for last mile connectivity.
“New looks, styling features, rocking mileage, all this and much more comes with a price tag of Rs. 1,75,000 (ex-showroom),” said Mr. Goindi.
The advantages of diesel-powered autorickshaws include the high fuel economy that they deliver, bettering the likes of CNG, LPG and petrol-powered models. Also, the sackful of low end torque generated by naturally aspirated diesel engines makes for better load lugging ability.
The main motivator for these manufactures is the goods transport segment, where the compact size of the three-wheeler has made it a preferred choice on crowded Indian streets.