Tata Motors angles for SA mini bus deal

Tata Motors has said it is participating in a South African government initiative to replace its over 1.5 lakh taxis within the next few years.

These are mini-buses that are used as taxis in South Africa. Tata Motors is yet to hear from the South African government on their bid.

According to a top official from Tata Motors, "The South African government is planing to replace its 1.5 lakh taxis (mini buses) and had invited global bids from commercial vehicle manufacturers. We were the only Indian firm to participate in the bid. Top global majors who participated in the bid include Isuzu and Daimler Chrysler."

The official added that Tata vehicles would have the economics of cost and is more suited for conditions in South Africa. He added that the company was open to enter a joint venture for this deal.

Hoping to bag a major chunk of the deal, the official also said, "The South African government was supposed to replace these taxis long ago, but had to complete certain formalities before they could do so. It has already been delayed by one year."

Meanwhile, as part of its on-going endeavour to refresh its product portfolio through the introduction of newer technologies, the company has announced the launch of the new Tata SFC 407EX Turbo light commercial vehicle.

With a payload capacity of 3.4 tonnes, increased fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs, operations of this truck can be more efficiently managed by the operator.