Toyota Etios to be exported to European market

Toyota Etios, the much awaited compact car in India, may also be exported to the European market from India, to capitalize on the higher margins in that market. Europe is also very much on the company's cards. In Europe, the savings on cheaper labour alone can be 30-40%, said Shekhar Vishwanathan, deputy managing director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd.

Before this the company was planning to export the Etios in the markets like Indian subcontinent and South Africa from its plant in Bidadi near Bangalor. leading car makers from India including Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, Hyundai Motor India Ltd and Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd are already exporting small cars to European market.

The Toyota Motors, largest car maker of the world, is struggling with a series of vehicle recalls. The company has recalled more then 8 million vehicle worldwide after complaints about the faulty accelerator paddles. So company may also have to work hard on its spoiled reputation before it begins exporting its small car Toyota Etios from India.

Where the Maruti India's exports rose 110% to 147,575 units, Hyundai’s exports jumped by 12% to 285,658 units. Both of the company were using the scrappage scheme in which buyers had given an option of replacing their old models. But since the scrappage schemes have been withdrawn, raised fears that car exports to Europe could go down this fiscal.

As Toyota is preparing for a December launch for the Etios model, it is set to enhance its dealership base to around 150 from the existing 98, as it reaches deeper into smaller towns and cities. Company is also doubling its sales staff to around 2,500 and its service personnel to 6,000 from 2,500.

Read More on : Toyota Etios