Fiat Group Automobiles India Private Limited, the domestic subsidiary of Italian multinational car maker Fiat, has decided to augment its presence in the domestic car market. The company is looking at increasing its dealership network to 100 facilities in the country, by the end of 2013 calendar year. Experts feel that Fiat Group Automobiles India’s expansion plans are dedicated to achieve 1 per cent market share in domestic auto market, by the end of 2013-14 fiscal.
At present, the Italian auto maker has 51 exclusive retail outlets in the country and is the process of adding 16 more dealerships soon. Evidently, the company is planning to enhance its sales and dealership network by the end of ongoing financial year.
In January 2013, Enrico Atanasio, Managing Director (MD), Fiat Group Automobiles India Private Limited, was quoted as saying, “We will open 100 exclusive dealerships by the end of 2013. We have already signed agreements for top 35 cities in terms of market across India.” Atanasio had also revealed that the company would reach the target of 70 dealerships in India by March 2013. However, the Fiat Group Automobiles India is still working on adding the remaining retail outlets in the country.
As per reports, the Italian auto maker has opened the doors of its fifth exclusive retail store in Noida in January 2013. The company’s Noida based dealership is called Kashyap Fiat and is spread across 4,000 sq. ft. of area. The world class facility also boasts off a separate service outlet that provides its customers hassle free vehicle servicing and serves as a one-stop destination for auto parts and spares.
Fiat Group Automobiles India has also revealed intentions to launch several customer oriented services, such as 24/7 roadside assistance and mobile service cars. The company is also offering domestic buyers a 3 years / 1,00,000 km and 2 years / 1,50,000 extended warranties on purchase of its Grande Punto hatch and Linea mid-size sedan models.
Currently, the Italian auto maker is looking at increasing its dealership network in the Tier I Indian cities, while all stores with Tata are winding up operations and embracing either one of the brands. The jointly owned service network with Tata Motors, however, will continue to function till Fiat India sets up its own service chain by the end of 2013 calendar year.
