Putting an end to all the speculations, Fiat India today announced its plan for launching the Jeep® brand to India. Along with the announcement of bringing Jeep to India, Fiat has also talked about launching an all new compact SUV, updated Punto hatchback & Linea sedan and the very popular Abarth high performance Fiat cars.
All this means that Fiat India will launch as many as 9 new/refreshed models in the next few years. The very popular Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Grand Cherokee will be imported and sold in the country towards the end of 2013.
As we all have been hoping, Fiat owned Jeep brand will sell its vehicles via an exclusive Jeep dealer network.
Fiat has also talked about improving its dealer network and after sales service quality.
“Our vision for India will revolve around a three-pronged strategy,” said Mike Manley, Chief Operating Officer for Asia and President and CEO – Jeep Brand. “First, introduction of new vehicles that will soon include the legendary Jeep brand. Second, the expansion of our independent dealer network and, finally, strong marketing initiatives that will continue to improve our awareness and brand perception in the market.”
Mike Manley visited Mumbai to meet with dealers and announce details of the new product and production plans for the market, which includes the expansion of the dealer network from the current shared TATA FIAT dealers to approximately 120 independent dealers by 2013.
Part of the dealer experience will include opening up of more Fiat Caffe outlets, which will offer customers the opportunity to learn about FIAT’s heritage and also showcase technological innovations from the Fiat Group portfolio across the world.
“Initial interest from the investors has proved to be strong. Therefore, we will be able to establish 120 independent dealers by 2013,” said Enrico Atanasio, Managing Director of Fiat Group Automobiles India Private Limited. “We are optimistic about our prospect for growth in the Indian car market, which grew 12 percent in 2011 and is rapidly becoming one of the major markets in the world. With the launch of the Jeep brand, new Fiat products, an expanding dealer network and upcoming marketing initiatives, we will be in a strong position to capitalize on this growth.”
The Jeep, Linea and Punto refresh and Abarth performance cars. The Italian giant is finally getting serious for its Indian innings.
Good times ahead for motoring aficionados.