Future prospects good for auto sector: Aulbur

Mercedes-Benz India on Friday said it is expecting a 10 per cent increase in its sales in the next one year as the future prospect for his company and the auto sector is looking up with a stable Congress-led government at the Centre.

The sales for the last quarter in 2008-09 was less than in 2007-08…"But now the things are looking good with a stable UPA government in place at the Centre. We are hopeful of a positive budget which will help us and the auto industry in general," Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO Wilfred Aulbur said while inaugurating a new showroom inAhmedabad.

He said that they are expecting around 10 per cent increase in the sale in the next one year and also plans to expand its network across the country.

"The year 2008-09 saw the biggest impact of global recession especially on the auto industry. Though our turnover has increased slightly, but the rise is not significant."

"We will be investing about Rs 150 crore (Rs 1.5 billion) in expanding our sales and service network across India. Our focus will be on the C and S class models," Aulbur said.

Major portion of the funds for expansion will be pumped in by our dealers, he added.