Mercedes-Benz has started producing the C220 CDI at its world class manufacturing facility in Chakan near Pune. The localized content for this particular model has risen to 60%.
In a bid to reduce prices of the C-Class diesel variant, Mercedes-Benz has started the local production of the C220 CDI in India. This has led to a price reduction of Rs. 2-3 lakhs depending on the variant of the vehicle. The C220 CDI Style variant is priced at Rs. 37.90 lakhs while the top end Avantgarde trim is priced at Rs. 39.90 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). The reduction in prices make it slightly better value for money since it is pricier than all of its competitors as a result of being the fresher model. The reduced pricing should lead to improved sales figures of the beautiful sedan.
The highlight of the news is the achievement of 60% localisation levels for the C220 CDI. Mercedes-Benz is committed towards the ‘Make in India’ campaign and will try and increase the localisation levels for other models that it assembles at its facility in India. With 60% localised content, the Stuttgart based manufacturer has gone one step further than BMW which recently declared incorporation of 50% localised content in the cars it assembles at its plant in Chennai. However, it should be noted that all the localised content confirms to the global standards set by the company.
Along with the launch of the localised C-Class diesel, Mercedes-Benz has also introduced Corporate Star Lease programme which enables corporates to drive a Mercedes under the employee car benefit programmes offered by corporates. The lease programme not only covers the on-road cost of the vehicle but also covers the maintenance and insurance expenses which makes owning a luxury car relatively hassle-free. Lease options are available for 36 or 48 months after which the car can be retained by paying a certain sum of money or one can go for an upgrade. A bit expensive than a loan on the face of it, a lease might end up being cheaper due to tax benefits.
