[Auto Expo 2008] Bajaj's 100,000 Rupee Car 'Lite' Resembles Japanese Light Car

Jan 11, 2008 20:28 Kenji Momota, Journalist and Yasuto Toudou in New Delhi

Bajaj Auto Ltd of India unveiled the details of its "1-lakh car" (1 lakh = 100,000 rupee) called Lite.

The name Hamara was reported on Jan 9, 2008, but it was based on false information published by an Indian newspaper that mistook the Bajaj catch copy as the model name. The name Lite implies both lightweight and illumination, the company said.

Measuring by sight, the estimated body size of this five-door tall sedan is approximately 3.3 (L) x 1.4 (W) x 1.5m (H). The company plans to debut the car in 2010-2012. The price may be slightly higher than 100,000 rupee, a demonstrator from the company said.

Bajaj reportedly developed a new platform for Lite. The company intends to apply the platform to commercial vehicles. The car has an RR (rear-engine, rear-wheel drive) layout with a 600cc two-cylinder engine. The information on the transmission is yet to be released.

Although the company began establishing a technical tie-up with the Renault-Nissan Group a few months ago, the latest concept model is reportedly Bajaj's proprietary development, including the design and engine. The company is likely to adopt technologies provided by this tie-up for further improvements.

However, the company 'hopes to use this concept model as the basis also for manufacturing the mass-production models,' the demonstrator said. According to Bajaj, what it wants from Renault-Nissan Group are the part procurement and supply routes in the global market, where Bajaj has not yet expanded, rather than the technical support.

The proportion of the entire body and its texture, interior design, etc, gives an impression quite similar to a Japanese K-car. The car seems to be well suited for use in Japan, unlike Tata Motors Ltd's 1-lakh car, nano, which has a distinctive style.

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