FCA complains against Mahindra over Roxor - Jeep similarity

According to a media report, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has filed a complaint against Mahindra with the US International Trade Commission. The owners of the Jeep brand have moved the body in an attempt to stop the sale of the Indian carmaker’s Roxor ATV.

According to the complaint filed, the Roxor is similar in design to Jeep's traditional design. The complaint included pictures comparing it the original Willy's Jeep. While the Roxor is not a road legal vehicle, FCA is concerned about the former’s low price. In the complaint, FCA has also claimed that Mahindra's access to cheap labour and increasing investments in the USA could harm FCA's goodwill and business. It must be noted that FCA is relying on Jeep vehicles to drive sales.

The Roxor is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine developing 61 BHP @ 3,200 rpm and 195 Nm of torque @ 1,400-2,200 rpm. This power is transmitted to all four wheels though a 5-speed gearbox and a 2-speed transfer case. The off-roader's maximum speed is rated at 72 km/h, while its towing speed is claimed to be 24 km/h. It is positioned in the Side x Side powersports segment. The Roxor is made in India and inported by Mahindra into the USA in the form of knocked-down kits.

Earlier this year, Mahindra invested US$ 230 million in a new facility in Detroit. It is the first investment in the region after more than 25 years and the local authorities have given a total grant of US$ 1.8 million to the company. The new facility has a capacity of 10,000 units annually.

Source: Bloomberg