Automobile enthusiasts always loved Delhi in winter, when marvels on wheels from around the world lined up in Greater Noida for the Auto Expo. Some of them were a bit disappointed to learn that leading brands such as Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, Skoda and Audi were not eager for the latest edition of the premier auto show in India.
Hardcore fans are adamant in their loyalty though. They cite examples from previous years when automakers stayed away from the expo for the simple reason that they did not have an upcoming model worth advertising for. No company worth its salt would spend about Rs 20 crore when it did not have to.
Meanwhile, the Auto Expo 2018 is on its way along with 24 new models and almost twice as many concept models. The lineup includes several much-awaited models from leading brands.
The expo is expected to be a barometer of the country’s automobile sector. Two Indian brands, Tata and Mahindra, are getting ready to unveil their latest models that promise to be international stars. The two companies are putting to good use lessons learned from their international forays.
While Mahindra is ready to introduce an SUV which shares the same platform as SsangYong Rexton, Tata’s new offering is inspired by Jaguar Land Rover, at less than half the price.
Hyundai has its own lineup but the star attraction is likely to be Kia Motor Corp, the other South Korean company getting ready for its Indian debut. Kia’s entry into the Indian market coincides with the exit of Chevrolet. Kia is no stranger to visitors to Europe or West Asia. Someone even suggested that Kia possesses the best of Rolls Royce and Lamborghini.
SAIC Motors from China is conspicuous with its absence in the expo. The company that bought MG Motor and produced the legendary British cars from China has disappointed many of the car watchers. After all the company has started operations in India.
Maruti Swift, Toyota Yaris, Rush and Honda Amaze are some of the brands to be unveiled in the expo along with two dozens new entrants.
