With a strong focus on the burgeoning electric vehicle market in India, Mercedes-Benz, the luxury car manufacturer is expected to expand its EV lineup in the country. According to the latest report, Mercedes-Benz’s existing and upcoming electric vehicle portfolio will contribute to 25 percent of its overall car sales within the next three years. This marks a substantial increase from the current figures of three to four percent. In a recent development, Mercedes-Benz introduced its latest petrol/diesel SUV, the GLC, in Hyderabad.
Mercedes-Benz EV Expansion In India: What To Expect
Santosh Iyer, the Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India revealed that the company has strategic plans to introduce three to four electric vehicles (EVs) in the Indian market over the next 12 to 18 months.
“For India as well we feel that there would be a rapid adoption as and when new cars launch, and at this stage we are looking at three to four new EVs in the next 12 to 18 months time. So, slowly but surely we should increase penetration. And in the next three years we feel that 25 percent of our sales would be EVs in India as well,” PTI quoted Iyer.
He explained that the transition to electric vehicles for Mercedes-Benz car owners is likely to be seamless due to the existing presence of charging facilities at their residences or workplaces. This convenience could potentially reduce their reliance on public charging infrastructure.
“Our current investments are close to Rs 2,700 crore in the plant. With GLC (car model launched recently) we have invested an additional Rs 100 crore. This capacity to make 20,000 cars in India (can) go up to 40,000… The first phase of 20,000, we should be seeing very soon. In the next two to three years, we should be reaching those numbers,” he added further.
He expressed optimism that certain states, currently imposing road tax on electric vehicles, would consider granting exemptions for this segment.
Additionally, he elaborated that the German automaker’s manufacturing facility, situated across 100 acres in Pune, possesses the capability to manufacture 20,000 units per year, with the potential to scale up production to 40,000 units.
