Mahindra and SsangYong develop two new models and a new petrol powertrain to cater the global needs and for Indian market
Mahindra and SsangYong are working closer to each other for technology and powertrain development since the former’s take over of the Korean SUV specialist in 2011. Their hard work seems to be reaping benefits as a new range of petrol engines and vehicle platforms are expected to be showcased soon.
Addressing a few of their shortcomings like the lack of petrol engines in Mahindra’s line-up and SsangYong’s limited availability in entering several emerging markets, the synergic alliance will give rise to constrained development costs and opportunity to venture into new segments. The new vehicle architectures are based on Tivoli’s and a large seven-seater SUV’s platforms.
Also Read: SsangYong LIV-2 Concept to Preview New Rexton SUV
Mahindra already has KUV100, TUV300 and Nuvosport SUVs in the sub-four metre segment and an urban SUV based on the SsangYong X100 will further strengthen its presence in that particular space. The biggest opportunity with the other platform will help Mahindra compete against Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
It will be the flagship vehicle for Mahindra while the same SUV will be utilised by SsangYong to enter North American markets by 2020. SsangYong Chief Executive Johng-Sik Choi told EconomicTimes that they are planning to share the Tivoli platform for the Indian market and discussing another monocoque platform for the D-segment SUV and van.
Also Read: SsangYong Tivoli XLV Crossover and SIV-2 Concept to Debut at 2016 Geneva Motor Show
He admitted that development costs have significantly gone down due to the creation of the new petrol engine range. SsangYong will be building a production SUV based on the XAV concept revealed last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show. By the time it releases in 2019, the Korean manufacturer will have product portfolio expanded to seven models.
The production model of the XAV has been given a go after months of discussions over whether it should be reaching dealers according to another story which said the move comes in coincidence with them recording profits for the first time since Mahindra and Mahindra acquired the company five years ago.
Ahead of 2019 unveil, the developments works have just begun and it is said to be based on the extended version of
Tivoli’s platform. While the concept’s design will be considered, most of the styling elements will be influenced by the old Mk2 Korando.
Source: ET Auto