Hyundai N Line series grows with Creta, Verna N Line not in immediate plans
Hyundai Motor India has expanded its N Line series with the recent launch of the Creta N Line, marking the fourth addition to the performance-oriented lineup. Priced from Rs. 16.82 lakhs (ex-showroom), the Creta N Line aims to rival models like the Kia Seltos GT Line and X Line variants.
Since 2021, Hyundai has been introducing N Line models annually, starting with the i20 N Line, followed by the Venue N Line in 2022 and the facelifted i20 N Line in 2023. However, despite speculation, there are currently no plans for a Verna N Line, as confirmed by Tarun Garg, COO of Hyundai Motor India.
Garg emphasised that market dynamics play a crucial role in decision-making, pointing out that the market share for sedans has dwindled to 8 percent. Citing January 2024 sales figures, the Verna continues to lead the midsize sedan segment with 2172 units, followed by the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia with 1879 and 1242 units, respectively.
The debate between investing in hybrids or embracing electric vehicles is ongoing. Hyundai, a global player in hybrid technology, currently focuses on all-electric vehicles in the Indian market due to the favourable FAME II subsidies. Garg stated that company strategies align with government policies and for now, the emphasis remains on BEVs.
While Hyundai offers a range of hybrids globally, Garg highlighted that the Indian strategy aligns with the market trend, where both Mahindra and Tata are heavily investing in battery electric vehicles. He mentioned, “We have no plans to bring hybrids because the India strategy is more focused on BEVs. For the global market, Hyundai has hybrid technology and vehicles, but BEVs are the way forward here.” Garg also mentioned plans to localise battery packs, aiming to reduce costs and facilitate the introduction of more BEVs in the future.
