An interesting fact that might amaze experts is that Toyota is the biggest car manufacturer in the globe in terms of volume but does not make a podium finish in India. The automobile manufacturer is currently at the fifth place, when it comes to percentage of shares. Toyota has a net market share of 4.8 per cent as updated till June 2014. However, the going seems to become tough for the Japanese manufacturer as it has recorded a poor display when its performance is compared to the previous years. Experts are of the opinion that this is mainly due to the fact that the company has not got a product, which leads any segment as of now. The Etios and Liva are not frontrunners in the category of sedans and hatchbacks, respectively. When it comes to the category of SUVs, the Toyota Innova and Fortuner have been in the market for quite some time now without any additional modifications. Most other brands have out-dated these products in the SUV segment. The Corolla is one car that might have led the flagship of Toyota in the right way as it should, however, the fact that it is over expensive is a major turn down.
There have been several strategies by automobile manufacturers to improve their sales reports and annual turnovers in the past. While premium brands like Audi and Mercedes have settled down in Tier II and Tier III cities, manufacturers like Hyundai and Maruti have gone for the rural population along time back. This smart move by these brands had a major impact in improving their statistics. It seems that Toyota has got the cue and has decided to go rural to tap its immense possibilities. If it is able to get the best out of the rural aspect, there are chances that it might just make a turnaround before it is too late.
Initially, Toyota has decided to go rural with Etios and Liva models, only. Liva, the leading hatchback has been identified by the brand experts as capable of getting the best deals and has been already hit the display at popular rural locations. In an attempt to regain lost ground, Toyota will also increase the number of its dealerships in India. The expectations are pretty high from the Liva model, which sells only 1500 units per month in India, as of now.
