Nano to give fillip to 4-wheeler market

Noida, Jan 18: ''Nano'' would give a fillip to the four-wheeler market and could also be used as a commercial vehicle by auto drivers in future, speakers at a discussion on the new vehicle from the Tata's Stable felt.

In a debate organised by Birla Institute of Management Technology-Centre for Retail here yesterday many participants felt that the car demonstrated India's entrepreneurship and technological prowess. Several views were stated in favour of the car including the fact that it would increase the affordability and aspirations of the middle class.

Many felt that the small car industry could eventually take the lead and export their success in small car manufacture to other nations, thereby generating revenue. Another interesting view was that with this car, India can export a kind of ''Gandhian engineering'' combining respect for conventional thinking with frugality.

However, those opposed to the entry of ''Nano'' called for urgent redressal of problems that would be ushered in with this car. They urged the authorities concerned to draw up plans to regulate the surge in traffic and arrange for more parking places.

They also felt that the car would deplete people's savings which otherwise could have been put to better use. A few people pointed to the increase in environmental hazards due to a rise in the existing pollution level. With this car, most families would now be putting at risk the lives of four people instead of the usual two, in case of two wheelers, they added.

Speaking on the occasion, director Dr H Chaturvedi pointed out that despite several hurdles ranging from political to financial, the Tatas had proved that working hard to realise our dreams takes precedence over dreaming big.

''Most importantly, the Tatas have demonstrated the fundamental component of any commercial venture---a promise is a promise,'' he said.

Ms Anku Sharma was declared winner and Mr Aakash Srivastava and Ms Deepa Bhatt were adjudged first and second runners-up in the event respectively.

UNI