Yesterday Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) launched its millionth car of the year. This is the first for the firm since its formation. At the same time, it also declared its intentions to manufacture K-Series engines within a year. The car launched was a new shiny red Swift at its factory in Manesar near Delhi.
This momentous event follows soon after the company beat its parent Suzuki in sales.
Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corp Osamu Suzuki said, “In 1982, we came and collaborated with the government led by Indira Gandhi;. it has been a long journey since then. Cumulatively, we have produced over 8.8 million cars in India.”
Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen, Ford, Honda, Renault, Hyundai, Suzuki and Nissan are others who have produced a million units or more per year.
Also on this occasion, the company announced more investments. These new investments would be meant to double the company’s production capacity at the Gurgaon factory to manufacture 500,000 K series engines every year.
Talking about the event, MSI chairman R C Bhargava said, “When we started our operations in Gurgaon, the area was surrounded by monkeys and weeds. Sceptics were proved wrong because of the vision and determination of Indira Gandhi. It was Osamu Suzuki’s leadership, far-sightedness and ability to see the potential in India.”
Presently MSI holds about 54% market share of India’s passenger cars. With better quality engines and low rates on car loans, it is sure to increase its market share.