Mercedes Benz intends to take over BMW in the Indian auto market. It lost its numero uno position to BME this year and has drawn fresh plans to accomplish its goal. The company said: “Last year we led India’s luxury car segment with a 46 percent market share. This year Mercedes is somewhat behind BMW, but we are hopeful of gaining momentum in the coming days.”

Mercedes is ready to bring CNG variant of its E-class model for its customers in India. “We have a CNG variant and will import it based on demand,” said Dr Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Director, Mercedes Benz, India. CNG models of new Mercedes E class is expected to be pricier due to high import duty as it will be imported as completely built unit. The petrol variant currently costs Rs. 45.89 lakh. Mercedes may also consider assembling the model in India if there is adequate sale. Currently, CNG is retailed only in Mumbai and Delhi which means that sales of the new CNG E class will be confined to these two cities only.

Mercedes is also expanding its network in commercial vehicle business. New three axle truck models are slated for a launch in the Indian market soon. "We’ve just launched two-axle trucks in India. Trial tests for three-axle trucks are already on and we hope to launch it in the next six months to a year," Aulbur stated.