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ShareMumbai: Not so long ago, Tata Motors was unveiling the world's 'cheapest car', the Nano. Now, they bring to Mumbai luxury at a price: Jaguar and Land Rover models in the Rs63-Rs92 lakh range.
Tata Motors has had its share of relationships with luxury brands. In 1994, through its expansive network, it distributed the Mercedes E-class in India, followed by Fiat products in 2006.
Now, it's the turn of Jaguar and Land Rover, the British marquee brands. Acquired in June 2008 for $2.3 billion, they marked their official entry into the Indian car market on Sunday with the opening of a flagship showroom at Ceejay House, Worli.
"The launch of JLR is quite memorable in the context of our history and heritage," Ratan Tata, chairman, Tata group, said.
"The launch ushers in a new breed of vehicles in India, which had been disconnected with consumers here for some years."
JLR, to be projected as beautiful fast cars, will be available as completely built units.
Phil Popham, managing director, Jaguar, said, "We enjoy excellent growth in key markets like China, Russia and Brazil and wish to add India to this growth list." Starting with Mumbai, the dealership network for JLR will expand to six other major locations.
On reports that the British government may want an equity stake or representation on the board, in lieu of a financial guarantee they give to the car-maker, Tata said, "We are negotiating with the UK government and hope for a solution soon."
