‘One in three Mercs are bought in South India’

After attaining top slot in the luxury segment, the German car maker looks to maintain its leadership position this year too. With 93 sales outlets in 45 cities, the auto biggie is keen on expanding its dealer network footprint to keep its double-digit growth this year. Last year, it had grown by 16 per cent. 

Michael Jopp, VP, Marketing & Sales, Mercedes-Benz India, said last year had been “fantastic” despite challenges, with the S-Class cars revving up its sales. Compared to rest of India, especially the northern market, south had outperformed growth-wise. “South remains a key market for Mercedes-Benz India and it contributes significantly to our overall volumes and we are particularly pleased with the steady growth of the South,” he added. 

The company has sold over 6,700 S-Class cars with S-Class 350 d, the enhanced version of Merc’s flagship product being launched in the city on Thursday. The first BS VI compliant diesel vehicle, hitting the road two years ahead of the regulation, is priced upwards of Rs 1.33 crore. 

According to Jopp, compared to previous S-Class models, the latest one promises a fuel efficiency of 8 to 12 per cent. The average customer profile was skewed towards diesel, he said, adding Indian customers still prefer to own their cars unlike other global locations, where leasing options are catching up. The average age of customers in India is 37 years compared to the global average of over 50 years. Interestingly, on an average, 10-11 per cent of the buyers were women. 

“Ever since its launch in India, we have handed over more than 6,700 S-Class cars to customers and this fact itself signifies the top most preference the S-Class enjoys in India. With the S-Class, we continue our product offensive and are confident of maintaining our lead in the luxury car industry. Customers can look forward to an aggressive year with many new product launches, strategic network expansion, innovative after-sales initiatives and unique brand experience.” Jopp said. 

Merc has plans for 10 more launches this year apart from focusing on futuristic technologies and electric vehicles. And the Delhi auto expo proved to be a good platform to test out its all-terrain e-class concept.