The importance of the production facility is reiterated by the fact that Mercedes-Benz India became the first market to locally produce the M-Class and GL-Class SUVs, outside Daimler's mother plant in USA. "Currently the plant locally produces five models for Indian customers; these are the C-Class, E-Class and S-Class sedans and also the M-Class and GL-Class SUVs. We will decide which will be the sixth model to be locally produced from our plant, soon," Kern says.
Another interesting and important element of Mercedes' success in India is the ‘Centre of Excellence' within Chakan facility. According to Kern, this is the next step for differentiated and exclusive luxury experience for the company's discerning customers. "Creation of this Centre is part of MBIL's strategy designed to address increasing needs of our customers for "Individualisation".
The facility is part of our strategy to create innovative formats alongside existing ones to cater to specialty cars demand which is increasing continuously. This Centre shall support in inspiring enthusiasm for the brand by giving consumers a first-hand experience of the brand promise - ‘Best or Nothing'," he says.
In what is probably an industry first in India, customers at this centre can actually customise their AMG/Mercedes-Benz cars using the iConfigurator: selecting the upholstery, have a look and feel of exterior paints, selecting alloy wheels, choose leather, stitch colour and even pedals too. "As part of Centre of Excellence, customers will be given the unique opportunity of a guided plant tour to enable them to see how three pointed stars are made.
Customers will also be given adrenaline pumping experience in MB India's Off-road track where they can test the prowess of MB's SUV range." The Centre will have a display of latest range specialty cars from Mercedes-Benz and AMG portfolio. It will have segmented wall panels with integrated elements on the wall panels including brochures, accessories display and TV into wall panels unit. The usage of textile graphic panels and graphic line on the wall create a special atmosphere and adds to the fascination element of the facility.
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