Telco plans hi-end Safari

NEW DELHI: Tata Engineering is contemplating launching a top-end version of its sports utility vehicle Safari, which will boast of a mobile refrigerator and even a rear-view camera.
The vehicle will be produced in limited numbers and sport a price tag of close to Rs 12 lakh.
Meanwhile, the Tata group flagship has also decided to adopt a wait-and-watch approach towards introducing its luxury sedan Magna.
“Though the development work on the vehicle is still in progress, we have decided to go slow on the project and focus our resources on the Indica Sedan and Estate, expected to roll out in 2002 calendar,� the company sources added.
Telco GM Rajive Dube, when contacted, said that the firm was testing waters for the new Safari. “Though we are yet to finalise a production and launch schedule, we are considering putting it in commercial production.� The sources pointed out that the vehicle was expected to be launched within 6-8 months.
The new Safari will have a rear-view camera to facilitate reversing the vehicle. The vehicle would have a screen near the driver seat to view the rear of the vehicle.
Dube said that the Magna was scheduled for launch only after the commercial launch of Indica Sedan and Estate. “There is fragmentation in the luxury car market and are now waiting and watching the market dynamics.�
Meanwhile, Indica is now preparing for a drive into Iran. Telco is in negotiations with Iran Khodro Company for marketing the 1,400cc small car. In addition, the firm is also in the process of finetuning plans to launch the car in Switzerland, Germany and France.