It was a glum looking scene at the Paris Auto Show that started yesterday as Auto industry fights back tough economic conditions that has led to a decline in demand. Although there were sparkling models shining at the show and representatives and bosses from all major car makers around the world marked their presence, however, weakening economies, strong Euro and high gas prices was a topic of discussion as well. India made cars are the ones that are being eyed by everyone at the show. Small Cars from like Electric cars, Nissan’s Pixo, Suzuki Alto, Hyundai i20 are some of the models made in India that are being showcased at the Paris Auto Show.
Argentum Motos, an Indian company, that bought Daewoo’s manufacturing plant in India for $200 million, also showcased its electric cars at the motor show. "We feel the market for these vehicles is first in Europe before India ," said Ajay Singh, the company's chairman.
Suzuki also plans to re-enter European market with its latest model Alto which is currently being produced at Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant in India. It has been described as the “green car for European customers” and is slated to be launched in the Indian market in mid-November as Maruti A-Star.
Indian models face scepticism at large as earlier Chinese models sent to Europe had failed in their crash test. It remains to be seen, how Europe will react to these cars made in India. Several auto makers from around the world already plan to make India as their manufacturing and exports hub for their small cars. Hyundai and Maruti already lead the band wagon with their manufacturing units well established in South and North India respectively.
