M&M launches new 'Scorpio'

The company also finalised a partner for setting up a local assembly unit in Russia.

"Along with better power and torque, the Scorpio 2.6 Turbo CRDe offers additional benefits in the form of cleaner exhausts which make it compliant with the BS III auto emission norms," Alan Durante, M&M executive director and president said.

The new 'Scorpio' would be priced about Rs 33,800 higher than the basic model, he said, adding the Turbo CRDe is one of the most powerful engines on the Indian road with a silent BHP of 115 HP.

Pawan Goenka, COO, M&M (automotive sector) said the company has finalised a Russian joint venture partner for setting up a local assembly unit in that country for its vehicles. "However, an announcement about the partner and operations would be made later," Goenka said.

M&M would add Russia and Malaysia to its present four export destinations for vehicles and also plans to enter the Chinese market, he said.

The exports have gone up 70 per cent during the current fiscal from a very small base, he said, adding overall sales growth is expected to be about 25 per cent during 2004-05.