Mahindra Gio launched today..

teamveevee · 29th October 2009, 10:00

Quote:

Originally Posted by prince_pervez

Boy, looks like someone was in a hurry with the design part.

May be Mahindra wants to introduce the 0.5 Mini truck before the 0.5 Ton Tata Ace ( Tata Penguin) to get the "First" title. Like many posters already mentioned, look does not matter in this category. May be the early mover advantage may work in Mahindra's favour. Time will tell.

suman · 29th October 2009, 10:20

Quote:

Originally Posted by tushky

eeeeekkkkkssssssss!!!!!!!!!
just checked the videos from website. it has a FAN in cabin. very luxury feature.

OMG, that looks like something straight out of "Transformers"

VFM or not, you'd think that some sort of aesthetics would be visible, wouldn't you!

throttleking · 29th October 2009, 10:31

another laughter from Mahindra, after Xylo he he he he

Skidrow · 29th October 2009, 11:04

I have a feeling that the Gio may be underpowered its got only a Lombardini 441 cc NINE bhp engine,with the sort of overloading prevalent in mofussil areas, shortened engine life and much lower fuel efficiency seem likely

rkg · 29th October 2009, 11:05

Mahindra has spent only Rs 25 crores in designing the GIO.
It is fitted with 9.1 hp engine from Kohler of the U.S.
Haridwar plant will produce 20,000 units annually

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) on Wednesday launched the Mahindra Gio, India’s first four-wheel half-a-tonne compact truck. The product is expected to create a new category and is positioned in between three-wheelers and the four-wheeler utility vehicles (UVs) now populating the market.

The Mahindra Gio BS-II (Bharat Stage II) is available at Rs. 1.65 lakh across the country while the BS-III is priced at Rs. 1.68 lakh. It is fitted with a 9.1 hp engine from Kohler of the U.S. and the company claims a mileage of 27 km a litre.

Addressing the media, Rajesh Jejurikar, COO, Automotive Sector, said the product was being launched in the northern, western and eastern markets while it would be launched in the south by January.

The Gio is M&M’s fourth new launch this year. In January, it launched the Xylo, in March the Scorpio — Refresh and in August the Bolero BMI Mini Truck. M&M at present has a 65 per cent market share in the utility vehicle segment and has seen a 33 per cent growth in volumes in the last six months.

Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, M&M, said, “the Mahindra Gio was made at the company’s plant at Haridwar which also produces three-wheeler CVs. The plant would make 20,000 units annually in the first phase, “but can easily be ramped up to 30,000 units.”

Mr. Goenka said the company spent only Rs. 25 crore on the development of the product. “This is because we were able to draw from the available engineering and tooling basket and the new tooling requirement was low.”

The Hindu : Business : M&M launches compact truck

foby.sebastian · 29th October 2009, 11:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by tushky

eeeeekkkkkssssssss!!!!!!!!!
just checked the videos from website. it has a FAN in cabin. very luxury feature.

Yuckk !!!!!

, Monster kinda thing

Archish · 29th October 2009, 11:50

Looks dont matter IMHO.

- For the end user, it should pull load. For him if its a .5 tonner, it should pull a load of about 1.5 tonnes.

- Then mileage. If the mileage is good enough to turn a profit, then its good.

- Last maintenance. It should simple enough for the driver himself to look after. Or at the max the neighborhood mech. should be able to solver whatever problem it has.

And also one thing is noticed is that it looks just like Ape Piagio till the front windscreen, then it looks like the front portion is welded on.

Maximum_torque · 29th October 2009, 11:52

Mahindra creates a new category with the launch of Mahindra Gio, India‟ first 0.5 ton Compact Truck

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a leading player in the small Commercial Vehicle segment in India, today launched the Mahindra Gio, India‟s first 4 wheel 0.5 ton Compact Truck. A category creating vehicle in the cargo commercial vehicle segment, the Mahindra Gio combines the style, status, comfort and safety of a four wheeler with the low operating and maintenance cost of a three-wheeler. The Mahindra Gio is available at an amazing price of Rs. 1.65 lakh, ex showroom BSII; BSIII price is Rs 1.68 Lakh. Equipped with a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, the Mahindra Gio gives best-in-class mileage of 27 km per litre.

With the launch of Mahindra Gio, we have created a new Compact Truck category in the commercial vehicle segment. The Mahindra Gio is the first of its kind entry level 4 wheel cargo vehicle, and is all set to change the dynamics of the small CV segment. As city limits gradually expand and distribution needs increase, the Mahindra Gio presents a high earning potential for customers who will benefit from its high mileage, low maintenance cost, optimum utilization of space and low acquisition cost," said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

The Mahindra Gio has undergone rigorous test runs and has been validated on all performance, safety and reliability parameters. This brand new offering from Mahindra‟s commercial vehicle stable also boasts of several class leading features, including the best-in-class fuel efficiency, „car like‟ controls and features, and a trendy & stylish look. This value for money load carrier scores highly on various parameters, including affordability, space, comfort and safety. It is also the most economical vehicle in the small CV industry, making it ideal for intra city operations.

The Mahindra Gio is being manufactured in Mahindra‟s Haridwar plant and is being launched in a phased manner. It will be available initially in West, North and select Eastern states and shortly thereafter in the rest of the country.

The Mahindra Gio is most suitable for intra city operations. Its compact 0.5 ton cargo box ensures maximum utilization of space. A small turning radius of 3.8 metres, dashboard mounted gear shifter and „car like‟ steering wheel allows this nifty 4 wheel load carrier to negotiate the narrowest of roads with ease.

India‟s first Compact Truck is powered by a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, which provides class leading mileage of 27 Kmpl. The Mahindra Gio also offers exceptional value for money with a low maintenance cost which is as low as that of a three wheeler. These features, coupled with an attractive price tag and better load optimization make the Mahindra Gio a great purchase.

Cares for your comfort and safety
Mahindra Gio offers greater comfort even on long trips. This stylish Compact Truck boasts of several class defining features, including adjustable cushioned bucket seats, roll down windows offering more ventilation and a car like Macpherson front suspension, ensuring comfortable ride and handling.

A tall and wide cabin with extra leg room allows easy entry and exit, adding to overall comfort. Easy to operate car like controls and an easy to read instrument panel enhance the Mahindra Gio‟s driving pleasure.

A semi-forward cabin with a crumple zone makes the Mahindra Gio a safe vehicle, while a balanced structure provides more stability leading to a safer drive. Multi focal reflector halogen lights, side indicators and bigger rear view mirrors offer optimum visibility.

Exceptional value for money
India‟s first Compact Truck is powered by a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, which provides class leading mileage of 27 Kmpl. The Mahindra Gio also offers exceptional value for money with a low maintenance cost which is as low as that of a three wheeler. These features, coupled with an attractive price tag and better load optimization make the Mahindra Gio a great purchase.

Strong performance
A strong gear box – 4 forward and 1 reverse –, coupled with the powerful Kohler engine gives the Mahindra Gio good pickup & load carrying capacity, while spring leaf suspension with a rigid axle enhances load stability. The load body comprises of a fully corrugated 5ft cargo box which is strong and long lasting.

Attractive style
The Mahindra Gio doesn‟t just deliver on performance and economy. It is also one of the most stylish vehicles in its class. The signature Mahindra front grille on the flat front cabin adds a distinctly macho look to this smart Compact Truck. Five youthful shades - Peacock Blue, Royal Red, Golden Yellow, and Sporty Green ensure that the Mahindra Gio cuts a striking figure on city roads.

Cyrus43 · 29th October 2009, 11:54

Who cares if this looks ugly. It serves the purpose perfectly. I remember seeing a test mule up close a few months ago undergoing i believe a weight test or something/

greatmana2000 · 29th October 2009, 12:12

I am waiting for totalled vehicles . I think i could make use of the front suspension and rear axles for a mini golf cart and may be a car which does 27 to a litre of diesel ..hehe

Edsel Rulez! · 29th October 2009, 12:57

Hmm... it doesn't look so bad in profile. I think it's the grill that does it in.

adrena · 29th October 2009, 13:08

Hmmm... this is a lot of Mahindra flogging here. Don't agree with all the comparisons with Tata Ace. Isn't that like a 1 tonner? Guess only the Piaggio Ape Truk comes anywhere near comparison right? Given Mahindra's credentials in the utility space, I'm certain this would be quite a workhorse. No doubting that. Wouldn't mind driving it around a bit. Maybe on a closed road with different real-life loads.

29th October 2009, 13:09

The Gio is pretty good-looking when you compare it to the super-ugly small trucks in India..check out the pictures and decide for your self.

For 1.65 lacs they've got sliding seats and rolling windows. Styling and looks wise, I think, Gio is fantastic!

Interview:

M&M launches mini truck Gio priced at Rs 1.65 lakh on ET

Mahindra & Mahindra unveiled light Gio on Wednesday. The vehicle, priced at Rs 1.65 lakh, is the cheapest mini truck, as

Pawan Goenka, President, M&M's sector

the company calls it, in the country. ET caught up with M&M’s automotive sector president, Pawan Goenka, on the importance of this product in Mahindra's play in the commercial vehicle market. Excerpts:
How important is Gio for your CV business?
The 0.5 tonne LCV segment is in the three-wheeler space. There are lot of buyers in that space who want to own a 4 wheeler. This gives us a unique positioning in the market where nobody exists today. For Rs 1.65 lakh, it is the lowest priced 4-wheeler truck. It gives us the potential to significantly increase our from 13-14%.

Have you set any sales target for Gio?
The overall market size is around 15,000 vehicles per month. And the capacity that we are planning is about 2,000 to 3,000 units per month. We can easily ramp up the capacity depending on market requirement. But if the demand goes beyond 3,000 units, we will have to pump in additional investments.

For M&M, what is the contribution of commercial vehicle business? How much do you want to grow it?
We have a fairly strong focus on cargo/commercial vehicle business. Gradually, commercial vehicle would form a bigger portion of our portfolio. Therefore, Mahindra Gio is very important for us. In pick-ups, we have 85% market share. That’s why we are giving more offerings to our customers to go into the lower segment, where we are not a leading player but hope to perform well.

Are you targetting international market for your commercial vehicle business? Will Gio be exported?
We have developed Gio primarily for the Indian market. Once the product is established in India, we will look at taking it outside. The commercial vehicle business as a whole, including overseas business, is very important to us. Our pick-ups do sell outside India. In fact, Scorpio sells more outside India. When we add medium and heavy CVs in our portfolio, we will export them.

When will the medium and heavy CVs be launched? Will you develop more products from Gio platform?
M&HCV launch in slated for first quarter of 2010. We always look at that can be made from any platform. Gio is our first offering and we are evaluating what else we can do with that.

Ram · 29th October 2009, 13:18

So what's next?

INDIA's FIRST COMPACT GIORICKSHAW?

Mahindra Gio launched today..-giorickshaw.jpg

Food for thought:

You know how much of a hindrance these miniatures pose to fast traffic -- the lifeline of the Nation -- not to mention the noise pollution and air pollution.

When do we as a Nation review the law
which says what may be registered as a motor vehicle for our roads and highways and expressways and what may not?
Only meaning: Where do we draw the line?

Now that it has 4 wheels will they permit this 9 bhp rattler on the expressway ?

Will we need a separate lane to protect miniatures from real vehicles?

devarshi84 · 29th October 2009, 13:20

To me it seems like a perfectly logical step from Mahindra. When entering the commercial market one needs to keep in mind that Design and looks take a back seat to utility and value. The GIO is a perfect example.

I think its a great step from mahindra and the economy and price are sure to get it many takers if Mahindra Markets it properly.

Edit: It would be great if Mahindra can get this thing an electric engine for city hauling and the cng for Highway trips.

29th October 2009, 10:31	#48
throttleking BHPian Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Pune Posts: 804 Thanked: 447 Times	another laughter from Mahindra, after Xylo he he he he
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 11:04	#49
Skidrow BHPian Join Date: May 2007 Location: Mumbai Posts: 40 Thanked: 70 Times	I have a feeling that the Gio may be underpowered its got only a Lombardini 441 cc NINE bhp engine,with the sort of overloading prevalent in mofussil areas, shortened engine life and much lower fuel efficiency seem likely
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 11:05	#50
rkg Senior - BHPian Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: bangalore Posts: 1,044 Thanked: 594 Times	Mahindra has spent only 25 crores on GIO Mahindra has spent only Rs 25 crores in designing the GIO. It is fitted with 9.1 hp engine from Kohler of the U.S. Haridwar plant will produce 20,000 units annually Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) on Wednesday launched the Mahindra Gio, India’s first four-wheel half-a-tonne compact truck. The product is expected to create a new category and is positioned in between three-wheelers and the four-wheeler utility vehicles (UVs) now populating the market. The Mahindra Gio BS-II (Bharat Stage II) is available at Rs. 1.65 lakh across the country while the BS-III is priced at Rs. 1.68 lakh. It is fitted with a 9.1 hp engine from Kohler of the U.S. and the company claims a mileage of 27 km a litre. Addressing the media, Rajesh Jejurikar, COO, Automotive Sector, said the product was being launched in the northern, western and eastern markets while it would be launched in the south by January. The Gio is M&M’s fourth new launch this year. In January, it launched the Xylo, in March the Scorpio — Refresh and in August the Bolero BMI Mini Truck. M&M at present has a 65 per cent market share in the utility vehicle segment and has seen a 33 per cent growth in volumes in the last six months. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, M&M, said, “the Mahindra Gio was made at the company’s plant at Haridwar which also produces three-wheeler CVs. The plant would make 20,000 units annually in the first phase, “but can easily be ramped up to 30,000 units.” Mr. Goenka said the company spent only Rs. 25 crore on the development of the product. “This is because we were able to draw from the available engineering and tooling basket and the new tooling requirement was low.” The Hindu : Business : M&M launches compact truck
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 11:50	#52
Archish BHPian Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Chennai Posts: 319 Thanked: 108 Times	Looks dont matter IMHO. - For the end user, it should pull load. For him if its a .5 tonner, it should pull a load of about 1.5 tonnes. - Then mileage. If the mileage is good enough to turn a profit, then its good. - Last maintenance. It should simple enough for the driver himself to look after. Or at the max the neighborhood mech. should be able to solver whatever problem it has. And also one thing is noticed is that it looks just like Ape Piagio till the front windscreen, then it looks like the front portion is welded on.
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 11:52	#53
Maximum_torque BHPian Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Mumbai Posts: 98 Thanked: 3 Times	Mahindra GIO Press Release Mahindra creates a new category with the launch of Mahindra Gio, India‟ first 0.5 ton Compact Truck Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), a leading player in the small Commercial Vehicle segment in India, today launched the Mahindra Gio, India‟s first 4 wheel 0.5 ton Compact Truck. A category creating vehicle in the cargo commercial vehicle segment, the Mahindra Gio combines the style, status, comfort and safety of a four wheeler with the low operating and maintenance cost of a three-wheeler. The Mahindra Gio is available at an amazing price of Rs. 1.65 lakh, ex showroom BSII; BSIII price is Rs 1.68 Lakh. Equipped with a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, the Mahindra Gio gives best-in-class mileage of 27 km per litre. With the launch of Mahindra Gio, we have created a new Compact Truck category in the commercial vehicle segment. The Mahindra Gio is the first of its kind entry level 4 wheel cargo vehicle, and is all set to change the dynamics of the small CV segment. As city limits gradually expand and distribution needs increase, the Mahindra Gio presents a high earning potential for customers who will benefit from its high mileage, low maintenance cost, optimum utilization of space and low acquisition cost," said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. The Mahindra Gio has undergone rigorous test runs and has been validated on all performance, safety and reliability parameters. This brand new offering from Mahindra‟s commercial vehicle stable also boasts of several class leading features, including the best-in-class fuel efficiency, „car like‟ controls and features, and a trendy & stylish look. This value for money load carrier scores highly on various parameters, including affordability, space, comfort and safety. It is also the most economical vehicle in the small CV industry, making it ideal for intra city operations. The Mahindra Gio is being manufactured in Mahindra‟s Haridwar plant and is being launched in a phased manner. It will be available initially in West, North and select Eastern states and shortly thereafter in the rest of the country. The Mahindra Gio is most suitable for intra city operations. Its compact 0.5 ton cargo box ensures maximum utilization of space. A small turning radius of 3.8 metres, dashboard mounted gear shifter and „car like‟ steering wheel allows this nifty 4 wheel load carrier to negotiate the narrowest of roads with ease. India‟s first Compact Truck is powered by a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, which provides class leading mileage of 27 Kmpl. The Mahindra Gio also offers exceptional value for money with a low maintenance cost which is as low as that of a three wheeler. These features, coupled with an attractive price tag and better load optimization make the Mahindra Gio a great purchase. Cares for your comfort and safety Mahindra Gio offers greater comfort even on long trips. This stylish Compact Truck boasts of several class defining features, including adjustable cushioned bucket seats, roll down windows offering more ventilation and a car like Macpherson front suspension, ensuring comfortable ride and handling. A tall and wide cabin with extra leg room allows easy entry and exit, adding to overall comfort. Easy to operate car like controls and an easy to read instrument panel enhance the Mahindra Gio‟s driving pleasure. A semi-forward cabin with a crumple zone makes the Mahindra Gio a safe vehicle, while a balanced structure provides more stability leading to a safer drive. Multi focal reflector halogen lights, side indicators and bigger rear view mirrors offer optimum visibility. Exceptional value for money India‟s first Compact Truck is powered by a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, which provides class leading mileage of 27 Kmpl. The Mahindra Gio also offers exceptional value for money with a low maintenance cost which is as low as that of a three wheeler. These features, coupled with an attractive price tag and better load optimization make the Mahindra Gio a great purchase. Strong performance A strong gear box – 4 forward and 1 reverse –, coupled with the powerful Kohler engine gives the Mahindra Gio good pickup & load carrying capacity, while spring leaf suspension with a rigid axle enhances load stability. The load body comprises of a fully corrugated 5ft cargo box which is strong and long lasting. Attractive style The Mahindra Gio doesn‟t just deliver on performance and economy. It is also one of the most stylish vehicles in its class. The signature Mahindra front grille on the flat front cabin adds a distinctly macho look to this smart Compact Truck. Five youthful shades - Peacock Blue, Royal Red, Golden Yellow, and Sporty Green ensure that the Mahindra Gio cuts a striking figure on city roads.
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 11:54	#54
Cyrus43 Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: London Posts: 5,019 Thanked: 221 Times View My Garage	Who cares if this looks ugly. It serves the purpose perfectly. I remember seeing a test mule up close a few months ago undergoing i believe a weight test or something/
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 12:12	#55
greatmana2000 BANNED Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: chennai Posts: 703 Thanked: 58 Times	I am waiting for totalled vehicles . I think i could make use of the front suspension and rear axles for a mini golf cart and may be a car which does 27 to a litre of diesel ..hehe
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 12:57	#56
Edsel Rulez! BHPian Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Mumbai Posts: 210 Thanked: 25 Times	Hmm... it doesn't look so bad in profile. I think it's the grill that does it in.
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 13:08	#57
adrena BHPian Join Date: May 2007 Location: Mumbai Posts: 116 Thanked: 205 Times	Hmmm... this is a lot of Mahindra flogging here. Don't agree with all the comparisons with Tata Ace. Isn't that like a 1 tonner? Guess only the Piaggio Ape Truk comes anywhere near comparison right? Given Mahindra's credentials in the utility space, I'm certain this would be quite a workhorse. No doubting that. Wouldn't mind driving it around a bit. Maybe on a closed road with different real-life loads.
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 13:09	#58
sandeep sharma Posts: n/a	Look at what this will replace!! The Gio is pretty good-looking when you compare it to the super-ugly small trucks in India..check out the pictures and decide for your self. For 1.65 lacs they've got sliding seats and rolling windows. Styling and looks wise, I think, Gio is fantastic! Interview: M&M launches mini truck Gio priced at Rs 1.65 lakh on ET Mahindra & Mahindra unveiled light Gio on Wednesday. The vehicle, priced at Rs 1.65 lakh, is the cheapest mini truck, as Pawan Goenka, President, M&M's sector the company calls it, in the country. ET caught up with M&M’s automotive sector president, Pawan Goenka, on the importance of this product in Mahindra's play in the commercial vehicle market. Excerpts: How important is Gio for your CV business? The 0.5 tonne LCV segment is in the three-wheeler space. There are lot of buyers in that space who want to own a 4 wheeler. This gives us a unique positioning in the market where nobody exists today. For Rs 1.65 lakh, it is the lowest priced 4-wheeler truck. It gives us the potential to significantly increase our from 13-14%. Have you set any sales target for Gio? The overall market size is around 15,000 vehicles per month. And the capacity that we are planning is about 2,000 to 3,000 units per month. We can easily ramp up the capacity depending on market requirement. But if the demand goes beyond 3,000 units, we will have to pump in additional investments. For M&M, what is the contribution of commercial vehicle business? How much do you want to grow it? We have a fairly strong focus on cargo/commercial vehicle business. Gradually, commercial vehicle would form a bigger portion of our portfolio. Therefore, Mahindra Gio is very important for us. In pick-ups, we have 85% market share. That’s why we are giving more offerings to our customers to go into the lower segment, where we are not a leading player but hope to perform well. Are you targetting international market for your commercial vehicle business? Will Gio be exported? We have developed Gio primarily for the Indian market. Once the product is established in India, we will look at taking it outside. The commercial vehicle business as a whole, including overseas business, is very important to us. Our pick-ups do sell outside India. In fact, Scorpio sells more outside India. When we add medium and heavy CVs in our portfolio, we will export them. When will the medium and heavy CVs be launched? Will you develop more products from Gio platform? M&HCV launch in slated for first quarter of 2010. We always look at that can be made from any platform. Gio is our first offering and we are evaluating what else we can do with that. Attached Thumbnails Attached Images
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 13:18	#59
Ram Senior - BHPian Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Singapore, Mumbai, Nagpur Posts: 2,166 Thanked: 219 Times View My Garage	INDIA's FIRST COMPACT GIORICKSHAW? So what's next? INDIA's FIRST COMPACT GIORICKSHAW? Food for thought: You know how much of a hindrance these miniatures pose to fast traffic -- the lifeline of the Nation -- not to mention the noise pollution and air pollution. When do we as a Nation review the law which says what may be registered as a motor vehicle for our roads and highways and expressways and what may not? Only meaning: Where do we draw the line? Now that it has 4 wheels will they permit this 9 bhp rattler on the expressway ? Will we need a separate lane to protect miniatures from real vehicles?
	() Thanks

29th October 2009, 13:20	#60
devarshi84 Senior - BHPian Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ahmedabad - Tor Posts: 4,024 Thanked: 211 Times View My Garage	To me it seems like a perfectly logical step from Mahindra. When entering the commercial market one needs to keep in mind that Design and looks take a back seat to utility and value. The GIO is a perfect example. I think its a great step from mahindra and the economy and price are sure to get it many takers if Mahindra Markets it properly. Edit: It would be great if Mahindra can get this thing an electric engine for city hauling and the cng for Highway trips. Last edited by devarshi84 : 29th October 2009 at 13:23.
	() Thanks