Amsterdam-headquartered automaker Stellantis will step up its presence in India by launching three new vehicles under the Citroen brand starting next year, said CEO Roland Bouchara. Stellantis was founded earlier this year after the merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot maker PSA.
These vehicles will be developed and produced in India and South America and will be launched in both regions over the next three years. The new launches will be developed on the CMP platform with over 90% localized content which will reduce reliance on the European market.
The new C3 series are three Citroen products for the international market. The first model to be produced is the new version of the hatchback C3, which will be launched in the first half of 2022 and is positioned at the heart of the market for the sub-4 meter segment.
“The new C3 will be the backbone of our local development strategy. This vehicle fits snugly in the heart of the Indian market, where 70% of the demand for vehicles under 4 meters and 50% of our customers are first-time buyers. This segment is growing rapidly and the C3 fits in with its appeal and affordability,” Bouchara said.
Citroën expects India to emerge as one of the brand’s largest growth drivers over the next five years. Currently, Bouchara says there are dealers covering the top 10 cities in India. He said the distribution network would be expanded prior to the launch of mass-segment vehicles.
