'Customers unwilling to pay premium over ICE, Govt support vital for EVs': Santosh Iyer

German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has recently introduced its latest EV in India in the form of its flagship Maybach EQS 680 SUV, which according to the company, has gone off to a flying start in the country. Despite global slowdown in EV sales, Mercedes-Benz remains committed to the technology's potential as a key enabler of sustainable mobility.

As per Mercedes-Benz India's MD and CEO, Santosh Iyer, consumers remain unwilling to pay the premium for EVs compared to ICE, and therefore, "Governmental support is critical to bridge this price gap." In this interview, Iyer also talks about how the tax arbitrage in terms of the 5 percent GST on EVs is enabling companies like Mercedes-Benz India to price their EVs competitively with ICE options, with the final choice being left to the consumer. 

Iyer also reveals Mercedes-Benz India's plans to enhance customer sales experience with revamped showrooms, as well as a strong effort to further elevate the quality of aftersales service being offered by the company. 

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