Renault to sell India-made Duster under Dacia badge in UK

Renault, the French auto maker, is all set to launch its eagerly awaited Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) Duster in the Indian auto market in July 2012. The car maker is looking forward to deliver 25,000 India-manufactured units of its yet-to-be-launched SUV in UK within the next 12 to 18 months. The reason cited behind this decision is said to be the cost factor, which is considerably lesser at the Chennai-based manufacturing facility of the company. Along with fairly low costs, Renault’s production unit is also maintaining global standards for the vehicle in the development process.

Renault to sell India-made Duster under Dacia badge in UK

 

Besides Renault, several global car makers are following this trend in the Indian auto industry. To name a few, Indian subsidiaries of Japanese auto makers, Nissan and Toyota have already kicked off the exports of their India-manufactured mid-sized cars. The sixth largest auto maker of the world, Nissan is aiming to mark their presence at the shores of western countries with its Sunny sedan. On the other hand, its compatriot Toyota has begun delivering Etios manufactured in India to South Africa.

When Duster will arrive in UK, the badge of Renault will be replaced by that of its subsidiary Dacia's. The car will be introduced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, which is to be held from June 28 to July 01, 2012. Dacia Duster will be offered in petrol as well as diesel versions and its bookings will commence from the first week of July 2012. The petrol version will be incorporated with a same 1.5 litre engine, which is presently assimilated within {C}Nissan Micra{C}. On the other hand, an option of 1.6 litre petrol engine, which currently does duty in {C}Renault Fluence' >Renault Fluence">Renault Fluence, will also be offered to buyers.