HCL forays into laptop market

HCL Infosystems today announced its foray into manufacturing of mobile computers and launch of 11 segment-specific range of laptops.

"We will now start manufacturing laptops at our existing plant at Pondicherry," said George Paul, executive vice-president of the company.

The company, which recently increased capacity at its Pondicherry facility from 6,00,000 units to 1 million units per year has added two new lines at its existing plant.

"The company has added two new lines in the plant which will be dedicated to laptop manufacturing," added Paul.

The notebook computer market in the country is expected to grow 50 per cent in 2005-06 from 4.75 lakh units sold last year.

The company further said that its latest foray is unlikely to effect its existing relationship with Toshiba, whose notebooks are distributed through the company.

"We have a separate business division marketing Toshiba notebooks. There would be no clash of interest between our own brand and Toshiba," Paul said.

The products, which are priced at Rs 27,490 onwards, will be aimed at different segments including doctors, lawyers, women and CEOs.

It has also introduced hardy notebooks starting at Rs 1 lakh, designed for work in rough conditions and meant for defence personnel. Apart from normal computing functionalities, the notebooks will have software package specified for each target group.

The company will offer the laptops at an equal monthly installment of Rs 699 for three years. It has also introduced insurance coverage for theft, accidental damage, breakage and liquid spill.