General Motors today revealed more details of its transformation strategy for India by announcing the 2017 launch of an all-new four-door notchback, the Chevrolet Essentia, at the 2016 Auto Expo in New Delhi. The Essentia headlines Chevrolet’s aggressive plan to increase its presence on Indian roads by tackling the fiercely competitive A-segment head-on with an exciting new car that recognizes the need for a traditional but richly appointed notchback.
GM also took the opportunity to showcase a fun and spirited soft-roader concept based on the same platform called the Chevrolet Beat Activ. The concept explores exciting new opportunities in the market for a youthful car designed to stand out in a crowd. Based on the popular and proven Beat platform, the Essentia and Beat Activ were specifically designed, to suit the tastes and needs of the discerning Indian consumer.The two show cars build on the carmaker’s earlier promise to launch a new MPV, the Chevrolet Spin, in 2017. The Essentia and Spin will mark the next wave of exciting new Chevrolet products that will be introduced to the Indian market over five years.
Stefan Jacoby, Vice President, General Motors and President of GM International said, “GM India is prepared to grow under a new leadership team along with new investment and an all-new product strategy. We believe in the long-term potential of the Indian market.”
GM India President and Managing Director Kaher Kazem expressed , “GM’s transformation in India is clearly reflected in the development of the Chevrolet Essentia and Chevrolet Beat Activ. We are heading into a new era with new-generation products that will catapult the Chevrolet brand in India, giving consumers vehicles that have never been seen in the market. Our aim is to ensure that our models are more relevant, better connected, more exciting and safer than ever before, for complete customer satisfaction.”
Designed in direct response to consumer demand for passenger cars that offer a combination of value, space and technology, the Essentia has functionality and style at its core. It strikes the perfect balance between personality and practicality, content and luxury. The Beat Activ is a concept that explores the desire among more youthful consumers for a fun, spirited car that reflects their personality while meeting all of the challenges of the sometimes tough Indian environment.
Both cars boast state-of-the-art connectivity and technology, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Chevrolet’s latest MyLink infotainment system. They are designed to support their owners’ active lifestyles no matter what their inspiration may be by offering a world of applications with the touch of a button or voice command. “The two show cars are further proof that GM is committed to revitalizing the Chevrolet brand in India by strengthening the customer experience, and enhancing the dealer and service network,” said Kazem.
With the introduction of its new products, GM India is committed to increasing the localization of its vehicles built in India to over 85 percent within five years while increasing exports from 21,000 units in 2015 to 50,000 units this year. Its manufacturing facility in Talegaon will be capable of producing best-in-class products for India and the world. Jacoby concluded, “Our transformation in India not only supports multiple product launches but also strengthens our manufacturing operations and network to meet the needs of Indian consumers and make GM a strong player in this important market.”
