Renault-Nissan working to develop 3 Datsun based model in Chennai

In the emerging markets like India and China, automakers are introducing products according to the market needs. With the intention to rule the Indian auto market, French auto maker Renault in association with the Japanese auto giant Nissan is keen on launching affordable mini cars. As both Nissan and Renault entered the Indian market by entering into the premium segment, the introduction of the new small car will create more potential buyers.

For now three models form the Datsun brand are on the list and is to be developed at the Chennai facility. Out of these company is planning to launch first, A-entry Datsun I2 which can be priced in the price window of about Rs. 2.5 lakh to 3.5 lakh. With the expectation to give tough competition to the Maruti Alto, Tata Nano and Tata Indica, Datsun has completed the benchmarking process of the I2 and project has now entered into second stage of development.

Renault-Nissan working to develop 3 Datsun based model in Chennai

The second entry in the list is the compact hatchback based on V-platform. The vehicle has been codenamed as K2 and is expected that Datsun K2 will be revealed before Datsun I2 and will feature the same 1.2 litre petrol engine that powers Micra. However, it is also possible that downsized version of 1.5 litre K9K diesel engine can also be used to power it. The testing of the vehicle is expected to start by the mid of next year.

The last entry will be named as Datsun K2, will be a 7-seater and will be following the same Indica series of car and will feature a number of wheelbases and body styles. This vehicle will try to make its place in the B-segment of the family van. All these models will be revealed once the two of the first model reach their final stage of the development.

As far as Renault is concerned, it is hoping to gather more than half of its sales outside the European market and will hope to continue this for the coming years.

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