Audi to open outlets in Delhi, Mumbai

In the run up to its entry in the Indian market, German luxury carmaker Audi on Wednesday said its dealerships in Delhi and Mumbai will open for business by the middle of next month.

"The dealerships will include both sales and after-sales facilities that adhere to Audi's stringent, worldwide quality standards. This will be followed by the opening of a third dealer facility in Bangalore by the middle of this year," it said.

Audi's three direct dealers in India are Euromotors in Delhi, Island City Motors in Mumbai and Jubilant Enpro in Bangalore.

Audi will also be transferring responsibility for its business in India to its worldwide headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany. The market was previously managed from Audi's Asia Pacific regional office in Singapore.

Wayne Griffiths, director region overseas, Audi, said the move signalled the importance of the Indian market. "We believe India holds tremendous potential for our brand and want to make sure that we fully capitalize on the opportunities available while at the same time provide the best possible services for our customers.

"We believe that with the setting up of dealerships in key centres, coupled with the direct involvement of the relevant departments and the full resources from our headquarters in Germany, the speed of market and brand development can be expedited," Griffiths said.

Michael Weber has been named as the country manager for India. Based at Audi's headquarters in Ingolstadt, he will have overall responsibility for sales and brand development in India.