Chrysler’s Indian test drive

By Sumantra Barooah /CNBC-TV18

 

India is yet to see Chrysler , Dodge , or Jeep models, but the maker of these brands, Chrysler has started the groundwork before hitting Indian roads.

 

Chrysler wants to get everything right in India, which is why it has started developing models in the country even before launching its first car. The American major will double its number of engineers to 400 this year at its Chennai center. The center was set up only last year. Those 200 developers are part of the 1,000 people that Chrysler will add in its centers this year outside North America.

 

A company spokesperson said the team is working on analysis of products and computational fluid dynamics, or CFD, work. CFD is a critical R&D activity that is also used to determine the drag co-efficient or aerodynamics of a model, which has a direct relation to fuel efficiency.

 

Chrysler's strategy is an example of how foreign carmakers are getting more serious about developing market specific products, feels AT Kearney's Automotive Practice Head. Nikolaus Soellner, Partner, AT Kearney , said, "India needs different features. An Indian customer is not concerned about a cup holder or small features, but it will determine the success."

 

Chrysler's work may also involve a small car. Talking about small car, there may be a possibility of expanding its recently announced alliance with Nissan for a small car in India as well. Under the alliance, Nissan will manufacture a small car for Chrysler at its Japan-based plant and Chrysler will manufacture a pick-up truck for Nissan in Mexico. Remember, Chrysler has held talks with M&M for possible partnerships for its Indian Safari.