Come what may, the German automobile leaders do not wish to compromise on even the smallest of things that contribute towards staging them on the highest podium i.e. the first spot, in India. With new plans and strategies being chalked out by every company, Audi is one such giant that has entered the battleground in full swing. The leading luxury car maker does not want to leave any stone unturned when it comes to sidelining the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Audi India Head, Michael Perschke said that the Indian market is quite preferable and favorable for Audi. He was quoted as saying, “Having recorded 95 per cent growth during the January-August period here, India is well ahead of other growth markets for us globally and we are confident that we are on track with our vision of being the No. 1 luxury car maker in India by 2015." He added that "We will be hiring at least 600 more people and raising our dealerships to 25 by the end of 2012. We will also enhance our portfolio with the launch of the Q3 (model) next year.”
In August, Audi registered an astounding ascent of 100 percent in sales by selling 510 units, as against 250 units that were recorded in the month of July. Moreover, during the January to August period, its sales hiked to a total of 95 percent to take the figure to 3,655 units as compared to 1,876 units that were sold during the same time period last year.
Backed by the staggering performance, Audi has been boosted with immense confidence of late and thus, has set a target for sales of 5,000 units this year. At present Audi is placed at the third position in the luxury car market, in terms of number of sales.
To ensure that the goal is attained at any cost, the Volkswagen Group company is increasing the number of its establishments that offer dealerships in a bid to expand its dealership network. The giant car maker also plans to take-in more personnel for strengthening its workforce.
At present, BMW enjoys the first position as a luxury car maker, a spot that was achieved after unsettling the rival Mercedes-Benz for the first time ever in 2009. The figures show that Mercedes sold 4,890 units from January to August this fiscal, a growth of 40 percent compared to 3,495 units that were sold last year during the same time period. However, BMW had sold 5,364 units till July.
Recently Mercedes reiterated on its current position and said that it desires to bring back its leadership era in India by 2015 and for which it is expected to launch 10 new models over the next three years.
Audi has a great opportunity for laying its hands over the first position, as it continues to be the market leader in the luxury SUV segment with its Q5 and Q7 and in the super sports car segment with its R8. Moreover, in recent times the luxury car makers have experienced a negative trend in their sales performances, unlike Audi, which is definitely an icing on the cake.
