Daimler plans to assemble trucks in India

Auto major DaimlerChrysler plans to assemble Mercedes-Benz trucks in the country soon, in order to tap the growing demand for freight transportation.

According to a statement issued by the company today, it has obtained a 'no objection certificate' leading truck maker, Tata Motors, in which Daimler owns 6.8%.

"This is a common procedure necessary if a foreign company with an equity stake greater than 3% in a domestic company would like to start its own operations," Wilfried Aulbur, CEO, DaimlerChrysler India, said in a statement.

"DaimlerChrysler India not only plans to import complete vehicles, but also to assemble semi-knocked down Mercedes-Benz trucks in the near future," he said.

Daimler India sells its Actros range of heavy trucks that are imported and is setting up a plant in Maharashtra with a capacity to make 5,000 cars a year.

According to agency reports, a company spokesman said, the plant would also be used to make trucks...the range and capacity have not been finalised.