Volkswagen is sketching out a 10-year strategy for India, a market it sees as having one of the most promising growth prospects in the world.
Thierry Lespiaucq, managing director of Volkswagen group sales in India, said that a 10-year timeframe makes sense, especially when it needs to evolve an elaborate revival plan. This will also involve putting in place a product strategy mindful that this is essentially a small car market.
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Lespaiucq, formerly with PSA Peugeot Citroen, General Motors, Toyota and Renault-Nissan, has been in India for less than six months but he told reporters: “The market may not be very big today at 2.4m units but has enormous potential. We, therefore, need to prepare ourselves as the economy grows.”
However, he was clear VW would not try and compete in the sub-compact market dominated by models like the Hyundai i10 and Maruti Suzuki Wagon R. It will stay focused on the Polo premium hatchback and Vento sedan categories along with larger models where its strengths will come into play.
Immediate priority, he said, is increasing footfall at VW showrooms across the country.
Lespiaucq added that he understands customers in India seek a host of features in cars.
“It’s important to listen to them carefully.”
