Feasibility study likely to look at global low-cost product
NEW DELHI: The proposed three-way alliance between Renault, Nissan and Bajaj Auto for developing an ultra low-cost car from scratch could still be some months away. It seems the scope of the feasibility study being jointly conducted by the three interested partners has been expanded and now Renault/Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn wants to develop a global low-cost product under such an alliance.
So even though there is intense pressure from Paris to get things done fast on this project, it could take another two-four months for a clear picture to emerge.
A team of around 60 people, drawn from all three parties, has been trying to determine the feasibility of developing such a product at various levels such as engineering, vendor evaluation, manufacturing, cost etc.
But interestingly, the feasibility studies do not include development of a Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) - a segment Bajaj Auto has already said it is keen to enter through partnership with Renault and Nissan.
When contacted, a Renault India spokesperson said “a structured explanation on a tripartite agreement for the ultra low-cost car project is still 2-4 months away……..we have not spoken to Bajaj or anyone else on LCVs till now though we are keen to enter this segment and may talk to Bajaj about it in the future”.
Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj remained unavailable for comments.
b_sindhu@dnaindia.net
