Toyota may bring in high-end MPVs Hiace and Alphard

Mumbai: Toyota Motor Corporation’s Indian unit may introduce the high-end MPVs Hiace and Alphard over the next 12-18 months as it seeks to benefit from a change in rule regarding local certification of imported vehicles, an industry executive said.The Japanese car maker is keen on bringing into India its latest technology and products, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, the executive told ET, requesting not to be named. The introduction of Hiace and Alphard is part of this consideration plan, he added.In September last year the Indian government said homologation would not be required for sale of up to 2,500 imported vehicles which have received certification in the country of manufacture. Previously, only vehicles costing $40,000 or more and having engine displacement of more than 3 litres for petrol and 2.5 litres for diesel could be imported without homologation.N Raja, deputy MD of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said the new norms do open up opportunities to explore advanced technology highend products with limited volumes potential. He said the company is exploring several options, but declined to name models that would be considered.Toyota had announced plans of bringing in the Hiace in 2018 but had to defer it due to currency fluctuation and changing regulatory landscape which called for speed governors.Raja said high cost of technology import is a hurdle in developing models locally, as the cost challenges can be tackled only with high sales volumes.He said the relaxation in norm will eventually “promote local manufacturing in support of the ‘Make in India’ initiative”. It will also “promote India’s technology agnostic advancements towards establishing a sustainable and ecofriendly future mobility and address the issues of pollution, import bills and safety,” he added.

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