Mahindra readying a premium MPV on the Maxximo platform

17/04/2012 - 06:49 | ,   | Kaustubh Shinde

The MPV segment seems to be metamorphosing itself in a very short period of time. Dominated by Toyota’s Innova, the MPV segment saw an entry of a very strong contender – Maruti Suzuki Ertiga last week.

Mahindra Maxximo Mini Van sideMahindra Maxximo

That’s not all. General Motors is testing its MPV on Indian roads since many months now. Also, Nissan is all set to enter in with the Evalia. So many contenders to challenge the Innova; well add one more MPV to that list.

DNA reports that Mahindra&Mahindra is working on an MPV based on the Maxximo platform. The vehicle is currently being tested at the Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai. Although, the company has not given any timeline for the launch of this mystery MPV, M&M has the habit of testing its cars for more than a year. So don’t expect it to launch anytime soon.

The Maxximo platform currently supports a van (Maxximo minivan) and a pickup (pictured). Considering it was a platform developed for utility vehicles, a lot of changes need to be done to the platform to make sure it supports a passenger application.

We expect the Maxximo to be a rival to the Tata Venture with amenities like air conditioning, leather seats, etc. Currently Mahindra is only able to compete with the Force Trump Trip and Tata Ace Magic with the Maxximo Minivan. With a more luxurious model, it maybe able to explore new sections in the MPV segment.

MPVs are increasingly being accepted in the Indian automotive market. They are a darling of large families and fleet operators. MPVs earlier contributed just 2% to overall passenger car sales are now expected to drive around 11-12% of the topline.

With new players coming into the market, expect better products and competitive pricing in the MPV segment in the future.

[Source: dnaindia.com]

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