Maruti roadmap ready with LPG-fitted models in other segments

Ahmedabad, Jul 20 (UNI) Maruti Udyog Ltd (MUL) is ready with a road map to introduce cost and fuel-efficient LPG-fired models in other segments too, depending on the customers response to just launched 'WagonR Duo' in A2 segment that can run on LPG and Petrol.

This was disclosed by MUL's chief General Manager I D Rao at the 'WagonR Duo' launch for the Gujarat region at a dealers' meet, followed by press briefing here today.

At present, he said, MUL propose to roll out 120 'WagonR' units per day, which account 20 per cent of the company's production capacity for all segments.

When asked as to if the company plans to introduce LPG-fitted models in other segments too from the Maruti stable, he said, the roadmap is ready, but its implementation will depend on how the market accepts the dual-fuel powered vehicle.

As such, he said, MUL has been coming out with one new model a year for the last five years. He said that CNG-fitted 'Omni' is also a hit.

As to why MUL switched on from CNG to LPG, he said, LPG outlets are more in number and LPG is as fuel-efficient as CNG.

Mr Rao, who was at the helm of the MUL team that took 18 months to roll out the latest 'WagonR', said that it could cruise at 16.9 kmph in standard conditions. It gives a mileage of 800 km without refuelling, fitted as it is with 35-litre petrol tank and 22-litre LPG kit.

He admitted that 'WagorR' had initially met with a lukewarm response and the sales were sluggish when first launched in 2000.

However, customers woke up new stylings, unmatched performance and comfort. It has achieved a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32 per cent over the last three years.

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