The Hindu Business Line : HM projects 50 pc growth in Lancer sales with Invex

LAUNCHING 1.8 litre Lancer Invex with an intelligent Man-o-Matic technology, Hindustan Motors on Wednesday announced that the company expects to increase its sales by about 50 per cent riding on this car and its recently launched other models including the economy 1.5 litre versions.

The Chief General Manager of Hindustan Motors, Mr K. Chandran, said that the company sold about 3,000 Lancers last year and expects to market about 4,500 cars this year backed by its new offerings Invex and the economy range of models.

Apart from this, the company expects to garner sales of 150 Pajeros, its high-end sports utility vehicle (SUV).

Mr Chandran said that the launch of Lancer Invex forms part of the growth strategy for Indian market. This topline model enables HM to significantly expand its base in the market.

The company is in parleys with some neighbouring countries including Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka to explore export opportunities.

Announcing a new dealership in Hyderabad — Surekha Auto — the CGM said that Andhra Pradesh was a key market for HM and this would pave way for growth of business in the region.

About 80 per cent of Lancers sold are of diesel versions.

Highlighting the Man-O-Matic engine features, Mr Chandran said this comes with Invecs or intelligent and innovative electronic control system technology that adapts itself to the driving style of the person behind the wheels. Backed with a feature that combines the advantages of manual and automatic transmission, which the company claimed was first such in the country, this enables the driver to select between sports mode for an active driving experience and an autopilot mode for a relaxed driving mode. The 1834 cc gasoline engine powered car is priced at Rs 8.95-lakh ex-showroom.