GM will also be launching a LPG version of the Spark and CNG version of the Aveo in April and June 2009, respectively. GM is also test running six of its different vehicles on bio-diesel. GM has been selling a CNG-version of the Optra in select cities.
“The tests will be over by the beginning of next year after which we will take a call on it. Fuel economy is the most urgent requirement today and we are looking at launching a range of cars with alternate fuel options.” Mr Slym refused to give out pricing details of the alternate fuel variants of Spark and Aveo.
He also reiterated the company’s intention to make India its power-train manufacturing hub for the Asia-Pacific region. In keeping with this, the company will be hiring an additional 300 engineers next year at its power-train plant.
In August this year, GM India had announced setting up a new power-train facility at Talegaon with an investment of over $200 million. This is in addition to more than $310 million already invested in the vehicle manufacturing facility, which has a capacity of 3 lakh units.
