By R. Natarajan, Managing Editor & Publisher
SML Isuzu Ltd., the Japanese giant with its clear focus on technology, is planning to expand its product portfolio with new truck and bus models to meet the growing competition.
The plan envisages introduction of a new bus model fitted with Isuzu engine in September as well as the company foray into the heavy commercial vehicle segment in which competition is hotting up. The company’s 13T GVW truck, sales of which commenced recently, has evoked fairly good response.
Disclosing this to in an exclusive interview to MOTORINDIA, Mr. K.B. Prasad, Sr. Vice President – Marketing, said that the company is determined to tackle the ever-rising competition in the Indian commercial vehicle segment by expanding the product range.
With a view to enlarging its market share as well as production, the company is gearing up to utilise the full capacity of 18,000 units by 2013, and more and more vehicles will roll out with Isuzu technology. During 2011-12, the company sold 13,646 vehicles compared to 12,870 units in 2010-11. Short supply of some vital components hindered the original plan of selling more vehicles last year.
Further, he said Isuzu is expanding its Indian operations, as well reflected in the rise in its equity participation from 4.2 per cent to 16 per cent.
Having been closely associated with SML since inception, Mr. Prasad has proved a pillar of strength and steered its growth all through.