2014 Auto Expo is coming closer as the last month of 2013 has begun and car makers are busy in their elaborate preparations for the biennial event. Said to be the largest automobile show in both India and Asia, this extravaganza has always generated tremendous levels of excitement among aficionados in the country. Not only is this show visited by the masses, many top officials from companies and media make appearances. 2012 Auto Expo, the 11th edition of this event, held at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, was a huge success and saw the participation of many top notch brands. There are a few changes from the last time in terms of location and date. The Motor Show, usually held at Pragati Maidan, is going to be organised at the India Expo Mart, which is located in Greater Noida. In addition, 2014 Auto Expo will be organised during February, a change from what happens usually.
Considering the state of the Indian automobile market, this event is going to be really important for many car makers as they would be looking to make a mark. Almost all popular brands have registered their names for this coveted event. Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Honda, Toyota, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo, Volkswagen, Ford, Audi, Chevrolet, Nissan, BMW and Mercedes-Benz are some of the companies exhibiting their vehicles at this event. Sources claim that many car makers would be looking to showcase upcoming models in order to create a platform for the future.
Recent statistics have suggested that Maruti Suzuki has registered a decline in its sales for November, 2013, something that is quite surprising. 2014 Auto Expo, considering this fact, is really essential for India's largest passenger car manufacturer. In all probability, the production model of XA Alpha is going to be showcased at the upcoming event, sources have claimed. This compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) is being touted as the next big thing in the Indian market by many experts. The rise in this segment has been immense and models like Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster are performing exceedingly well. XA Alpha SUV is likely to come in both petrol and diesel options. Also, sources claim that it will be priced under Rs. 10 lakh. Experts feel that considering the brand value of Maruti Suzuki and the rising demand in the segment, XA Alpha could perform really well.
Japanese car maker Honda is going strong in the Indian car market at present. Amaze compact sedan, one of the best-selling models of 2013, sources claim, is recording incredible sales figures. In addition, fourth generation Honda City, unveiled in late November, has already generated tremendous buzz. The Japanese car maker, reportedly, is going to showcase the Brio-based Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) at the 2014 Auto Expo. This model, called Mobilio, has already been unveiled in some Southeast Asian markets. The demand for utility vehicles is rising in the country and Honda would like to capitalise on the same.
Luxury car maker Jeep, which is owned by Chrysler LLC, is set to make its debut in India by showcasing the Wrangler SUV at 2014 Auto Expo. A highly acclaimed model throughout the globe, Wrangler, as per experts, has the potential to carve a niche for itself. Although the launch of this model is almost certain, the American brand has not confirmed anything yet.
