The legendary, five decade old Ambassador is getting ready for an extended life. The oldest surviving car in production will now get a Bharat Stage IV emission norm compliant diesel engine, which can now be registered across India. The Ambassador sales suffered due to the lack of a BS4 compliant diesel engine, which means that the car couldn’t be sold in 13 cities including the metros. It is a popular vehicle among politicians and in the taxi segment and Hindustan Motors have managed to sell 500 units last month.
Hindustan Motors believe that the success for their future depends on marketing measures, which include expansion of reach into remote areas, enhancement of dealership network and better financing options. According to Uttam Bose, MD and CEO, Hindustan Motors, the inability to select the right technology partner delayed the development of a BS4 compliant diesel engine. Currently the Ambassador runs on BS4 compliant petrol motor with an optional CNG kit and a BS3 compliant diesel motor.
The HM Ambassador featuring BS4 compliant diesel engine is likely to rollout from June this year and the company expects to sell 5000-5500 units in 2013-14. Apart from the BS4 diesel engine introduction, Hindustan Motors will also come up with a sub 4-metre Ambassador early next year. It will be priced aggressively over the full length Ambassador, enjoying lower excise duties. Hindustan Motors is expecting a bright future with these two introductions lined up. Meanwhile, take a look at our cool rendering of the sub 4-metre Amby.
Source – HindustanTimes
