Mahindra targets Ace with Maxximo

Mahindra & Mahindra plans to launch its new Maxximo mini truck at the Auto Expo 2010. This new model (code LTV) will go head to head with the Tata Ace mini-truck and will be displayed at the Mahindra pavilion in Hall 2-5 at Pragati Maidan.

Mahindra has chosen 'Technology' as the theme for its display this time and will also be showingcasing its hydrogen and electric vehicle technology at the exhibition.

According to Dr Pawan Goenka, president, Automotive Sector, “We will unveil our next- generation mini truck, named ‘Maxximo’, at the Auto Expo 2010. This is the first product to be rolled out of Mahindra’s new state-of-the-art Chakan plant and the Maxximo has been developed and designed on the basis of extensive customer feedback.”

The company says that it has already started production of the Maxximo at Chakan and will begin dispatching it to dealers in January. The Maxximo uses an entirely new engine and gearbox and its new platform will be the basis for other models in the future.

According to Mahindra, the name ‘Maxximo’ was chosen to represent the vehicle’s futuristic and advanced feel and says that with this model it will offer the most diverse range of load carriers in the market, starting with its three-wheelers and moving up to its Pik-up trucks.

Mahindra adds that the Maxximo is ergonomically designed and offers car-like interiors, which is a first for the light truck segment in India. Currently the Tata Ace dominates the light truck segment with sales of around 9,000 units per month, which gives it a market share of around 90 percent. The segment is expected to grow by 15 percent per annum in the coming years.