Nitin Gadkari, Indian Minister of Road Transport, has issued a new policy to car manufacturing companies focusing on vehicle and road safety norms. R C Bhargava, a senior automotive professional, points out the dilemma faced by the customer buying a hatchback. While the customer may have upgraded his personal vehicle to ensure its safety, he will not be willing to spend extra money on the same. Bhargava is the Chairman of the largest car manufacturing company in India, making up almost half of the passenger cars sold in India.
Hindustan Motors: The first automobile manufacturer in India, Hindustan Motors was established in 1898 and is currently part of the Birla Technical Services conglomerate. It was the largest car manufacturer in India before Maruti Udyog emerged as a dominant force. The company sold the Ambassador brand to Peugeot SA in 2006, including all trademarks and the entire assembly process. The transaction involved Rs80 crore and two joint venture agreements.
Maruti Suzuki: Since 1981, this Indian automobile company has grown from small beginnings to a large car manufacturer. It was originally a joint-venture between the Suzuki motor corporation and Maruti Udyog limited, and has since become one of the biggest companies in the country. The company has been famous for its affordable prices and great mileage. It was also the first car manufacturing company to sell its products abroad, and has since gained a strong foothold in the automobile industry.
Volkswagen: The German multinational automaker Volkswagen owns half of the car manufacturing companies in the world, including Volkswagen. Volkswagen India offers luxury cars with refined aesthetics. Honda: The Japanese car manufacturer Honda made its debut in the Indian market in 1995. Honda focuses on fuel efficiency and comfort. Among the top car manufacturing companies in India, Renault is one of the most popular brands. The company produces vehicles in many different segments and is the fourth largest exporter of passenger cars globally.
Nissan Motors: Since 2001, Nissan Motors has been operating in India. The company has a manufacturing plant in Shendra, Maharashtra. In September, its domestic sales increased by 28 percent. General Motors has plans to do the same. By the end of FY 2017-18, Nissan Motors is estimated to have sold 500,000 cars. By that time, Nissan and General Motors will be exporting more cars than ever.
Mahindra: The largest automobile manufacturing company in India, Mahindra started out as a steel trading company. After independence, they entered the production of MUVs. It is now the largest tractor manufacturer in the world and the largest car manufacturer in the country. Their passenger and commercial vehicle lineup includes the Scorpio, Bolero, Verito, and XUV 500. Mahindra is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
