The 11th Auto Expo that takes place these days at New Delhi was the ground for the display of the ChevroletSail and MPV Concept, GM’s first products from its joint venture with China’s SAIC.
The Sail is a five door sub-compact hatchback that has been developed at GM’s Technical Center in Bangalore to ensure that it will meet the needs of the Indian buyers.
On the outside, it sports the brand’s family signature grille with the golden Chevy badge and vertical taillights at the rear. The cabin gets Chevrolet’s “double cockpit” design, along with chrome-plated accents, and an audio system with radio, CD-player and Aux-in connectivity (remember, the Sail is designed for emerging markets).
GM claims that the Sail can accommodate up to five people thanks to the placing of the fuel tank in the middle of the car and the short overhangs, which maximize interior space. It will be offered with both gasoline and diesel engines from GM India’s latest “Startech” line-up, though no further information was provided.
“The Chevrolet Sail hatchback will be a strong addition to GM’s mini-car portfolio in India”, said GM President and Managing Director Lowell Paddock. “It will bring a new sense of vitality to the biggest, fastest-growing and most competitive segment in the domestic passenger car market.”
The second tailor-made product for India, as well as other emerging markets, to be shown by GM and SAIC is a B-segment MPV study, which Lotus spent a year and a half cooperating with GM people to tune the chassis.
Chevrolet says that the roomy MPV Concept will be available in seven- or eight-seat configurations, both of which will feature the firm’s so-called flexi-seating system.
“The Chevrolet MPV Concept is designed for those who want a spacious, comfortable and well-styled vehicle to enjoy life with their loved ones”, said Paddock.
