Mahindra & Mahindra Limited : Mahindra showcases comprehensive suite of mobility solutions at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

• Highlights world class technology with the SsangYong range of vehicles - Rexton, Korando E, Actyon Sports & XIV-1 Concept
• Mahindra Navistar showcases outperformance with emphasis on integrated trucking solutions

January 5, 2012 New Delhi: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., (M&M), a part of the US $ 14.4 billion Mahindra Group, today unveiled its widest ever portfolio of products at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012. Taking pride of place on day one of the Expo were four world class products from the SsangYong stable, showcased in India for the first time. Mahindra Navistar Automotives Limited (MNAL) also showcased outperformance with a strong presence through its new customized truck application at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012.

Four new SsangYong vehicles namely - the Rexton, the Korando E, Actyon Sports and the XIV-1 Concept - were unveiled by Dr Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive and Farm Equipment Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. & Chairman, SsangYong Motor Company and Mr. Yoo-Il Lee, President, SsangYong Motor Company.  The MNAL range of products viz., MN25 (6x4) Transit mixer, MN25 Refrigerated van, MN31 Bulker, MN31 Haulage Tipper, MN25 HD Tipper and Tourister 32-seater CRDe Bus refresh were also unveiled by Dr Goenka and Mr Nalin Mehta, Managing Director, MNAL.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pawan Goenka said, "The Delhi Auto Expo 2012 is an important platform for the Mahindra Group given that we are displaying our comprehensive suite of mobility solutions for the first time. Having harnessed distinct synergies with SsangYong, the showcase of the Rexton, the Korando E, the Actyon Sports and the XIV-1 Concept for the first time in India, bear testimony to the world class technologies that are now available across the group. After a successful pan-India commercial launch and ramp-up of service infrastructure at Mahindra Navistar, our focus is to provide our customers with an integrated trucking solution. This will help our new age, state-of-the-art trucks to sport a variety of applications which will further enhance the utility of these trucks and help customers outperform in their business."

Over the first two days of the Expo, the Mahindra Group will display the full scale of its product portfolio and the breadth of its technology capability with an exhibit of 27 vehicles, from Mahindra, SsangYong, Mahindra Reva and Mahindra Navistar. 

The Group's display ranged from its highest selling SUV, the Bolero to the iconic Scorpio and the tough and rugged off-roader Thar to its recently launched and much acclaimed XUV500. It is noteworthy that the Mahindra XUV500 has picked up a host of accolades since its launch 3 months ago, including the SUV of the Year and the prestigious Car of the Year award, making it one of the most successful vehicles to debut in 2011. In addition, Mahindra also displayed its acclaimed pick-up, the Genio Double Cab version as well as the electric concept version of its popular sedan, the Verito, on Day 1 of the Auto Expo.

In addition to this, a specially created 'Design Studio' will give visitors an interactive experience of the entire automobile design process. This is complimented by the 'Technology Display' section which will offer a glimpse of the world class technology that goes into creating automobiles, via a cross section display of the newly launched XUV500.

The Mahindra Auto Expo stall will be beamed live into the homes of people who can't visit the stall in person, via a webcast. For those visiting the stall, Mahindra has an exciting augmented reality show where a virtual cheetah interacts with the crowd.  Also on display will be India's first Adventure magazine available on iPad and Mahindra's award winning Mahindra Adventure game as well. Visitors to the stall can also get themselves photographed with the line up of Mahindra vehicles, via a special iPad photo app.

SsangYong Products on Display

Mr. Yoo-Il Lee, said, "Few global car makers can match the 4x4 heritage of SsangYong and Mahindra. Having produced rugged, robust, high quality off road models for decades, SsangYong knows what it takes to create global benchmarks for others to emulate. Our partnership with the Mahindra Group has now allowed us to explore joint product and technology development opportunities and synergise global operations and purchase. This will enable us to offer our global customers products with features such as aspirational styling, best-in-class technological advances, advanced safety features, comfort and convenience all in one fabulous package".

XIV - 1 CONCEPT

Taking centre stage at the Mahindra Pavilion is the innovative new compact crossover concept from Mahindra SsangYong - the XIV-1 Concept. SsangYong's vision of the next generation crossover model, the XIV-1 Concept merges the robust attributes of a B-segment SUV with the affordable running costs of a small family car. The XIV-1 concept is a showcase for SsangYong's design and engineering talents with the name itself having been derived from the phrase 'eXciting user Interface Vehicle', highlighting the show car's focus on interaction with the driver and passengers. The very objective of the XIV-1 Concept is to maximise the enjoyment of movement while also providing passengers with a moving communication space.

Each of the concept's four seats can rotate through 360 degrees in addition to moving forwards and backwards, enabling passengers to freely move and rotate all seats to tailor the cabin layout to their specific needs.

The other unique aspect is the user interface, which embraces the concept of an extended living space rather than providing just a means of transport. Control of many of XIV-1 functions is via the interaction of Smart mobile devices and the vehicle itself. Using the kind of devices that a driver and passenger are likely to carry at all times, they can control everything from the audio system, the display of information on the dashboard and online communication.

REXTON

The Rexton encompasses all of SsangYong's off-road knowledge and experience into one robust package, providing exceptional all weather, all terrain transport and class leading towing capabilities. The vehicle is powered by a 2.7 litre turbocharged common-rail diesel engine under the hood which is good for 184 PS of maximum power and a massive 402 Nm of torque.

The styling of the Rexton blends the elegance of a luxury model with the rugged features of a hard-working off roader. The upright headlamp shape flanks SsangYong's distinctive grille to emphasise Rexton's power, while the attractive rear view design houses a convenient flip up glass tailgate. At home both in a chic urban environment and a hostile off-road setting, the Rexton's confident appearance reflects its engineering pedigree. A premium SUV with a luxurious cabin, all of the Rexton's controls are positioned for the driver's convenience and offers three rows of seating making room for seven occupants. Innovative folding mechanisms also allow the second and third row of seats to be folded away to leave a vast luggage area. 

KORANDO E

Presenting the vision of the future electric car of SsangYong Motor, the Korando E is SsangYong Motor's second SUV EV, following the Korando C EV launched at the 2010 Busan Motor Show. It is a pure electric car concept model based on the Korando C, and is an attempt to present the stereotype of small SUV electric cars by combining SsangYong Motor's design DNA, specialized in SUVs and the future-oriented identity of electric SUVs.

The Korando E completes its simple but strong image through a combination of abundant volume and a strictly streamlined tense style line. Coupled with a masculine body design, such as a robust and dynamic bumper, an agile and three-dimensional structure lamp design onto unique detailed design features, it presents the robust design direction pursued by SsangYong Motor. The design concept of the Korando E is to present a new type of electric vehicle that highlights functionality and special focus on the younger generation of consumers where an active and urban lifestyle is the norm. The car presents an overall sporty feeling with youthful exuberance and energy reflected in the overall styling and function.

On the front side of the Korando E is a lighting structure in application of SsangYong Motor's 3 Circle emblem, in which the image of Hi-tech EV and the symbol of SsangYong Motor are overlapped to emphasize the future orientation of SsangYong Motor's design. The side has an electric sense added to the design of the Korando C, which has been praised for its well balanced design. The interior of the Korando E enables mobile devices to convert the control and operation of the functions of the car. It also presents the concept of an extended living-space and provides for interactivity with smart devices, which forms an important part of the modern lifestyle.

ACTYON SPORTS

The all new Actyon Sports pick-up offers all the robust, high value, high quality attributes of SsangYong vehicles, while opening up a whole new market. Applying modern design techniques to the traditional pick-up body has resulted in a stylish Sports Utility Truck that perfectly presents the dynamism of SsangYong products, while balancing the needs of load volume with attractive lines. The Actyon Sports is the ideal pick-up for a wide variety of drivers, whether they enjoy leisure activities such as camping, skiing and cycling or just need a hard working truck.

Far from being a stripped out commercial model, the Actyon Sports offers the cabin comfort and luxury of a premium SUV complete with a sunroof, RDS & Bluetooth audio, rear view camera, hinge sprung tailgate and a trip computer. Not to mention functions such as ESP and dual airbags fitted to make Actyon Sports a genuine alternative to a conventional 4x4.

Efficiency has also been at the forefront of Actyon Sports' engineering, with the 2.0 Active Diesel Engine complying with Euro 5 emissions standards and offering highly competitive economy. CO2 emissions have been reduced to 186g/km, representing a nine per cent improvement over the engine's previous performance. This impressive efficiency is achieved without any compromise in performance. Peak torque of 360Nm is maintained across a wide range of 1,500 to 2,800rpm, while 190Nm is delivered at a near-idle 1,000rpm.

Outperformance with integrated trucking solutions

Commenting on Mahindra Navistar's commitment to its customers, Mr. Nalin Mehta, said, "The new integrated solutions that Mahindra Navistar has launched at the Auto Expo 2012 will further strengthen our brand promise of 'Outperformance'. The trucks, nearly 3000 of which are on the roads and have clocked more than 50 million kilometers across the length and breadth of the country, are already helping several customers earn more through better turnaround time and through benefits of the efficiencies that have accrued through a superior cabin and sturdy aggregates. The new applications will add a new dimension to this success story. This will be supported by a 940 touch-point strong service network, which has been put in place in a relatively short span of time".

The applications have been specifically created for various business needs by adding new applications to the MN25 and MN 31 - MN25 (6x4) Transit mixer, MN25 Refrigerated van, MN31 Bulker, MN31 Haulage Tipper and MN25 HD Tipper.

Mahindra Navistar already has a strong network of 48 dealerships across India and 52 more new dealers are likely to be ready in the next 12-18 months totaling to 100 nos. The company's 24x7 NOW Expert assistance on call, 208 Authorized service centres and 658 Road side assistance points have together created nearly 940 touch-points across the most vital routes to help look after trucks at a short notice.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Troy Clarke, President - Asia Pacific, Navistar Inc., USA, said, "Since its launch at the last Delhi Auto Expo in 2010, Mahindra Navistar has created a significant position for itself in the Indian trucking industry with its superior product performance and sound value proposition. With the launch of these 5 fully built Application trucks, Mahindra Navistar has taken a step towards becoming a complete Integrated Trucking Solution Provider for its customers and I am confident that over a period of time, it will emerge as the most trusted CV brand in India which is its stated vision".

Design Studio

A special 'Design Studio' has been created at the Mahindra stall to enhance consumer engagement with Mahindra & Mahindra and its design thought process for products. At this unique studio, consumers from all age groups can understand, experience and enjoy how vehicles are designed. It is the epitome of the 'Mahindra RISE' philosophy as it involves innovative and alternate thinking, which is also the underlying theme for Mahindra & Mahindra at the Auto Expo in 2012.

The 'Design Studio' will have live sketches by designers, a paint your car kiosk, displays of car designer tools, concept car scale models and a design tour through the process of designing cars. The studio will also have an interactive section wherein the designers can give tips to students who wish to pursue car design. There will also be a fun station where today's generation can solve car design puzzles and can design their own car through 'Digital Configurators.'

Commenting on this unique idea and experience, Mr. Rajan Wadhera, Chief Executive - Technology, Product Development & Sourcing, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said, "The idea of the Design Studio at the Auto Expo is to have an interactive platform between the automotive enthusiasts and the auto designers, to demystify the work that goes on behind the scenes in automotive design."  

Technology Display

On display is a cut section of the XUV500 which will allow visitors to experience and view first hand, intangible aspects of technology that go into creating a world class product like the XUV500.  For a feature like Safety, the customer will be able to tangibly view a cross section of the 6 Air bags, the patentable Honey Comb hood inner structure for pedestrian protection, light weight technologies like the plastic fuel tank and comfort technologies like Independent Rear Suspension, etc.

Commenting on the Technology Display, Mr. Rajan Wadhera, Chief Executive - Technology, Product Development & Sourcing, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said, "The XUV500from the Mahindra stable is yet another "Game Changing Product", the success of which has been well documented."

Be there to witness the future of personal mobility solutions for a sustainable tomorrow and an array of new products!

 Venue: Hall 12 A, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi

Date: January 6, 2012

Time: 12.50 PM onwards

About The Mahindra Group

The Mahindra Group focuses on enabling people to rise. Mahindra operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, information technology and vacation ownership. Mahindra has a presence in the automotive industry, agribusiness, aerospace, components, consulting services, defence, energy, financial services, industrial equipment, logistics, real estate, retail, steel and two wheelers.

A US $14.4 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India, Mahindra employs more than 144,000 people in over 100 countries.

In 2011, Mahindra featured on the Forbes Global 2000 list, a listing of the biggest and most powerful listed companies in the world. Dun & Bradstreet also ranked Mahindra at No. 1 in the automobile sector in its list of India's Top 500 Companies. In 2010, Mahindra featured in the Credit Suisse Great Brands of Tomorrow.

In 2011, Mahindra acquired a majority stake in Korea's SsangYong Motor Company.

 About Mahindra Navistar Automotives Ltd. (MNAL)

 In 2005, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and International Truck and Engine Corporation - the operating company of Navistar - entered into a JV to manufacture light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles for India as well as global markets. The joint venture is in the process of addressing every segment of the commercial vehicle market from 3.5 tonne GVW to 49 tonne GCW with variants of passenger transport, cargo and specialized load applications.

The new HCV product range has been engineered to meet Indian requirements with technological expertise from Navistar with the underlying philosophy of 'Made in India, Made for India and Made with 175 years of international trucking expertise'. The new range of medium and heavy commercial vehicles is being manufactured at a new green field plant at Chakan. The plant, which spans over 700 acres, has been set up with investments of over Rs.4000 crores and is producing other M&M products as well. This is helping MNAL leverage the benefits of synergies of an integrated manufacturing facility.

For further enquiries, please contact:

 Ms. Roma Balwani                                          Mr. Percy Dubash

Senior VP & Group Head                                Adfactors Public Relations

- Corporate Communication                          Phone: [phone]

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd                             Fax: [phone]

Phone: [phone]                             Mobile: [phone]

Fax: [phone]                                 Email: [e-mail]

Email: [e-mail]