M&M launches Scorpio 2.6 Tubro CRDE

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) today launched its flagship vehicle Scorpio with common rail diesel engine (CRDE) to meet BS-III auto emission norms.

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

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 roads.

Pawan Goenka, COO (automotive sector) of M&M, said the company has finalised a joint venture partner for setting up a local assembly unit in Russia. "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, and is also planning to enter the Chinese market, he said.

Exports have gone up 70% during the current fiscal, Goenka said, adding that adding overall sales growth is expected to be about 25% in FY05.