India to Have Another Luxury Car - Mercedes A Class

Mercedes is contemplating its options to bring its small range model, A class, to India. Mercedes A class is currently the smallest car in company's portfolio and may cost a little more than other luxury models available in the country..

"We are evaluating the Indian market regarding price positioning and overall perception of the company as far as the A-Class range is concerned. However, we have not taken any decision so far whether and when to introduce the A-Class car in India," said Rainer Schmuckle, Mercedes Benz COO, on the sidelines of the 48th SIAM Annual Convention 2008 in New Delhi. “Although, during recent months the growth has slowed down a bit, we are hopeful that the drive will resume within the next 12-18 months,” he added.

According to Rainer, the current luxury car market segment in India is growing at a rate of 30-40 percent annually. It is also weighing options to bring complete series of new models of hybrid vehicles in the global auto market. It may also launch its S class hybrid car in the global car market in 2009. It shall bring more luxury models on the similar lines subsequently in 2010 and 2011.