PSA Peugeot Citroen to reveal its plans in India

PSA Peugeot Citroen, is taking a final call on the European auto mobile plans for India. It is being learnt that the top officials from the auto firm is in conversation with the state government regarding the land for  the production unit. The company plans to come with Citroen car brand rather than Peugeot.

The luxury car brand name is not new to the auto giant, as it was in joint venture with Premier; the company made an exit due to a legal battle. It now wishes to enjoy the lucrative auto market by coming back with Citroen.

The combined entity, whioch is constituted of two independent brannds , Peugeot and Citroen, is showing interest in starting a mega manufacturing unit for vans and cars in South India. It is in talks with Tamil Nadu and Andra Pradesh government for acquiring land for its new factory.

PSA Peugeot Citroen spokesperson said that the company is working towards its entry in India and the company soon may come up with announcements in sometime.

If the auto market sources are to be believed, Peugeot may come up primarily with Citroen brand in India. It is also revealed that from Citroen's clan C1 compact car model will be launched. The C1 is a five door car model which comes with a price tag of 7,195 pound (Rs 5.25 lakh) in UK. It is believed the hatchback from French automaker will compete with Maruti Wagon R, Hyundai i10, Maruti A Star, Chevrolet Beat and Ford Figo in various parameters such as powertrain and dimensions.

The two power car makers Citroen and Peugeot work on similar platforms, powertrain and also on various development areas. It has hugely benefited the auto companies in posting a competitive price tag.

When the European auto company will commence the functioning of its production unit which will include local powertrain and transmission facility in India, Peugeot automobiles will be 20 to 30 per cent cheaper. The recent example of the same has been posted by Volkswagen and General Motors.

As per the auto industry insiders, the auto mobile company is looking for a 900 acres land for the manufacturing unit. This unit will include testing track, research and development wind as well as space for the auto part.

Peugeot was speculated to re-enter the Indian car market last year in December during the visit of the French President Nicolas Sarkozy but could not do so due to continuous delay in the agreement. When the French company will enter India, it will be the second from its home ground after Renault. Though the French auto company is aiming more towards the Chinese auto market but it also plans to cater to the other Asian auto markets in future.

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