Mahindra & Mahindra is gearing up to roll out a brand new multi-utility vehicle codenamed ‘Model U’ in 2007. The same year Mahindra also plans to launch the Logan car through its joint venture with Renault. It is also likely to introduce its first heavy commercial vehicle through its 51:49 joint venture with International Truck and Engine (ITEC) during this timeframe. According to reliable sources, several Indian auto component manufacturers have already begun supply of parts to Mahindra for ‘Model U’.

“We have new products coming out all the time. With the UV business, we have a pipeline of products all the time” said vice-chairman and managing director, Anand Mahindra.

He neither denied nor confirmed the roll out of ‘Model U’. “Too many competitors are breathing down our neck for us to divulge such information,” he said.

He added that the new truck venture with ITEC could be based in Uttaranchal if things went the right way. “We have yet to find a location for our JV to make trucks. Uttaranchal is one of the three state government with whom we are negotiating,” Mahindra said.

M&M, meanwhile, has set up its latest plant in Haridwar, Uttaranchal for producing three-wheelers. President, Pawan Goenka said that the company was looking at producing 50,000 units annually once the plant reaches full capacity.

P THARYAN