Audi Q2 could be imported to India taking advantage of the relaxation in bringing 2,500 new vehicles without homologation
Audi India is considering importing models into the domestic market as part of the new rule that could see variety of cars being introduced in the country in the near future. It allows a manufacturer to import 2,500 vehicles per year from abroad for sales in India without the expensive process of homologation.
According to a recent report emerged on the internet, Audi will be looking at importing the Q2 SUV into India taking advantage of the new regulation. The import relaxation has not been well received across the auto industry as some including SIAM are against the change.
Nevertheless, the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer is pushing ahead with the relaxation. Audi India’s Head of Operation, Rahil Ansari, has said that there is potential to import vehicles from low- to high-end segments and it will largely be helpful in testing a particular space, niche or otherwise, in real-world conditions.
He further stated that the Q2 fits well under the scheme and depending on how it will be received by the customers, Audi could consider local assembly as well. Since the BMW X2 is not present in India, Audi may use the opportunity to tap more into the entry-level luxury SUV segment with the Q2.
The German luxury brand could use the import relaxation to explore new segments and will be aiming to make the most out of it. Audi expect the sales numbers in 2019 to stay almost similar to last year when nearly 6,500 units were retailed. During the second half of 2019, Audi will be unleashing the latest version of R8 sportscar as well as Q8 and A8.
The arrival of the e-tron, the brand’s first fully-fledged electric SUV, depends on how the charging infrastructure develops in India. It could arrive sometime next year or a little early according to Ansari. The e-tron debuted in September 2018 globally with electric driving range of 400 km on WLTP cycle and 200 kmph claimed top speed.