How does Mercedes-Benz plan to expand its electric vehicle line-up in India, and what role does innovation play in enhancing the appeal of electric luxury vehicles to Indian consumers?
Mercedes-Benz has a very aggressive roadmap for the EVs in India. We will be launching new EVs in the next 8-12 months from our global portfolio suited to the Indian market. This involves launching electric versions of popular models tailored to Indian consumer preferences and market demands.
Customising electric vehicles to suit Indian conditions and preferences is crucial. This might involve selections in range, performance, design, and even features specific to Indian road conditions and driving habits.
Innovation plays a significant role in enhancing the appeal of electric luxury vehicles. Mercedes-Benz India has incorporated advanced tech features, such as hyper screen, Head-Up Display, connected infotainment systems, AI-driven assistance, and energy-efficient components, tailored for the Indian market.
Tailored brand positioning and service support is also essential to capture the attention of Indian consumers. Emphasizing the performance, luxury, and environmental benefits of electric luxury vehicles through creative campaigns is part of our strategy.
Expanding the electric vehicle lineup in India requires a multi-faceted approach that considers not only the vehicles themselves but also the infrastructure, consumer perception, and localised strategies. Innovation in these areas is crucial to making electric luxury vehicles more appealing and accessible to Indian consumers.
Can you share some insights into the charging infrastructure initiatives that Mercedes-Benz is involved in to support the growth of electric mobility in India?
Charging infrastructure plays a key role in the adoption of EVs. While private players and the central government are installing chargers to reduce range anxiety among Indian consumers, Mercedes-Benz India has invested Rs 20 crore to create an ultra-fast charging network across the country comprising 60 kW and 180 kW DC chargers. For easy customer access, we recently onboarded our chargers on the exclusive EV Charging Mobile Application, FICH. As a part of our commitment towards sustainable mobility, we have opened our Franchise's DC Charging Network to all EV users in India.
Could you elaborate on the initiatives Mercedes Benz has undertaken to promote sustainable practices in its operations, supply chain, and product offerings in India?
Mercedes-Benz is committed to reducing emissions throughout the whole vehicle lifecycle across the entire portfolio, developing an entirely carbon neutral passenger car fleet by 2039. In India, we aim to reduce, reuse and recycle, leading to a reduction in CO2 footprints through the design of our processes and initiatives. As of 2022, the Mercedes-Benz India plant runs on 100 per cent ‘Green Energy.' That said, over 1/3rd of our Franchise Partner Outlets will run completely on ‘Green Energy' by the end of 2023.
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