Fada@50 pres by Varuna

FADA Office Bearers K. V. S. Prakash Rao, President John Paul, Vice-President Vinay Sanghi, Honorary Secretary Mukesh Jain, Honorary Treasurer FADA Secretariat Gulshan Ahuja Indira Menon Ankush Sethi Mahendra Singh Steering Committee Vinay Nevatia, Chairman Rakesh Jain, Co-chairman Nikunj Sanghi, Co-chairman Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations - FADA 805, Surya Kiran, 19 K. G. Marg, New Delhi – 110 001, India. Tel: +91-11-2332 0095, 6630 4852, 4153 1495 Network18 Team Varuna Naik Akshaya Jadhav Rishabh Bhaskar Bertrand D’souza Agrima Joshua Ravi Salian Ravikumar Potdar Sudhanva Jategaonkar Sandeep Khosla, CEO, Publishing Network18 Media & Investments Limited Unit No.501, 5th Floor, Tower 1C, ‘One Indiabulls Centre’, Jupiter Textile Mills, Senapati Bapat Marg, Elphinstone Road, Mumbai – 400 013, India. Tel: +91-22-3363 4400 Creative Contributor Chaitanya Joshi Tel: +91 97696 628887 Email: joshi.chaitanya@outlook.com Printed in India at Indigo Press (India) Pvt Ltd, Plot Number 1C/716, Off Dadoji Konddeo Cross Road, Between Sussex and Retiwala Industrial Estate, Byculla (E), Mumbai – 400 027. Copyright © 2015 Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) & Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. Published in 2015 By Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. Unit No 501, 5th Floor, Tower 1C, One Indiabulls Centre, Jupiter Textile Mills, Senapati Bapat Marg, Elphinstone Road, Mumbai – 400 013, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, photocopied, recorded, scanned, photographed, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher who is the copyright owner. The publishers also assert their legal and moral rights to be identified as the publishers of this book. The contents of this book are believed to be correct and every effort has been made to ensure that this publication is as up to date as possible, at the time of going to press. However, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors.

Bertrand D’souza Editor, OVERDRIVE

Five decades isn’t a long time but it’s enough for the Indian automotive industry to have witnessed a sea change. From the days of controlled licensing and nationalisation to the presently liberal markets, the Indian automotive industry has come a long way. Through these turbulent and constantly changing times, the one thing that has continued to stay constant is the bridge between manufacturers and customers - the automotive dealer. Serving the auto industry for fifty years is no easy task. For bridging the manufacturer-customer gap, I commend and compliment the Federation of Automobile Dealers’ Association (FADA), for completing this all important milestone. Dealerships thus far have played a critical last-mile role in the entire value chain of the automotive industry. Automotive retail 2.0 is going to be starkly different in the next fifty years. It is going to be driven primarily by technology but it will also be supported by efficient techniques and human resource capital of a slightly different sort. Conventional practices will change, showrooms will continue to operate for that vital touch point but dealerships may exist in larger numbers in the digital world. So dealerships will need to play a far greater role in tandem with the manufacturers, who have already made a bigger impact on the digital mind space, in order to occupy a bigger share of the value chain. It is a paradigm shift. A ‘change’ that is inevitable. Change, by nature, is unbiased. It gives back in equal measure of the inputs. The more one invests in change, the more rewarding it becomes for the investor. Having scripted its history in gold, I believe FADA is now ready to embrace the change. Ready for newer challenges and opportunities! Let the change begin.

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A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step...

CONTENTS VISION 06 FOREWORD 12 CAPTAINSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SPEAK 24 Content description Ximporum ulparchita conseque sitat.Oluptat endipsunt aut hilit.

LANDMARK EVENTS

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DEALERSHIP PROFILE 50 Content description Ximporum ulparchita conseque sitat.

PEOPLE 92 Content description Ximporum ulparchita conseque sitat.

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ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS Content description Ximporum ulparchita conseque sitat.

110

VINTAGE CARS 120 Content description Ximporum ulparchita conseque sitat.

Years

PRESIDENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSAGE

The business of auto retail stood the test of time not only in India but globally too. For some it is a business in pursuit of passion and for others it is a rewarding and respectful source of livelihood. Very few businesses in retail have stood steady over the years. But we are proud to feature in this book those Auto Retail organisations, which have stood steady and continue to do so, with immense strength and pride. The process of creating this coffee table book itself has been a truly enriching experience for each of us, since it called for deep diving into the past. The past always has great stories to tell. The photographs of the trade captured, during the years gone by are truly nostalgic for some of us and a discovery for others. This book I believe, will help in bringing our fraternity even closer. I am very happy with the enthusiastic and rich contributions towards the content of the book by the Auto Principals and my dealer friends. I am sure that each of us in this industry will cherish and treasure this wonderful collector item. I wish that this book will motivate each of us to grow stronger in this business and also inspire people with passion in auto retail to join us.

K V S Prakash Rao President, FADA

Years

FOREWORD

Keshub Mahindra Chairman Emeritus, Mahindra & Mahindra I feel deeply honoured to be asked to write a short foreward for the Coffee Table Book being published by FADA on the occasion of its Fiftieth Anniversary. This chronicle of history will take you through the highlights and achievements of the Indian Automotive Industry. I am sure that these nostalgic moments will make you proud of what the industry has collectively accomplished. Since its inception FADA has played a very crucial role in enhancing the dealerships in India through various programmes. Noteworthy amongst many are the programmes for skilled development, interventions for improving business efficiency, dealership exchange programmes initiatives to enhance safety & sustainability and forums for sharing international best practices. They have initiated the Automotive Dealership Excellence Awards (ADEA) which have been particularly successful in motivating dealerships to achieve excellence. The entire Supplier and Dealer ecosystem have been equal partners in this growth story of the Automotive Industry. Our dealer fraternity are the bridges to our customers. They have initiated and supported the culture of motoring providing direct and indirect opportunities as they progressed. Their efforts have been tireless, servicing vehicles from the highest motorable road in the Himalayas to the southernmost shores of the Indian Ocean, from the sandy dunes of Rajasthan to the marshy banks of the Sunderbans. I have been fortunate enough to have witnessed the evolution of the Indian Automotive industry these past fifty

years. Be it in terms of our aspirations, our product offerings, our technology capabilities, our partnerships and more importantly our overall brand image. We can be truly proud of the achievements of our industry, beginning modestly from assembling vehicles, we have reached the level of maturity in which environment most foreign producers of vehicles are tempted to set up operations in India to take advantage of our excellent facilities. In spite of comparatively smaller volumes as per global standards, the auto industry in India has achieved and inculcated a culture of efficient performance. Skill development has been a key of this success and we have achieved for ourselves a reputation for frugal operations which makes it possible for the industry to grow amidst global competition. A great many manufacturers look to creating export hubs in India to augment their growth story. Without simultaneous growth and development of marketing skills provided by the pivotal link of the dealer fraternity, it would not have been possible to obtain and sustain this growth. The future is full of hope and expectation. With India aspiring to attain a double digit growth backed by a young consumer public, opportunities are immense. We will have to meet global standards in quality and service to satisfy knowledgeable and demanding consumers. FADA will continue to play a pivotal role. This historic book will adorn many tables with memories which one would cherish in the years to come.

Years

FOREWORD

K P Jhunjhunwala Past President, FADA India obtained Freedom in 1947. Till 1947-48 the Automobile market in India was totally dependent, on either imported vehicles or assembled vehicles in Calcutta and Bombay. Vehicles were imported in Semi Knocked Down condition (SKD). After Independence, all the Importers and Manufacturers, who were foreigners, either closed their operations or sold them to Indian Business houses; and a new chapter started with Hindustan Motors and Premier Automobiles. Hindustan Motors made an Agreement with Morris Oxford of England and Premier Automobiles made an Agreement with Fiat of Italy. These 2 companies started assembling the vehicles with SKD packs first, subject to manufacturing in course of time, and reducing the import contents, in a phased manner. Hindustan Motors and Premier Automobiles started their assembly and slowly got into production. They took advantage of appointing some dealers, who had large showrooms and service specialties all over India. Ford Motor Co. and General Motors had Assembly Plants in Calcutta. G. Mckenzie and Dewars Garage also had Assembly Plants. The other vehicles were assembled mostly in Bombay. I remember that Kolkata alone had many dealers of imported vehicles, such as Chevrolet sold by Walford Transport in Park

Street; Dodge, Desoto and Plymouth sold by Auto Distributors belonging to Poddars, Pontiack sold by Jaidka, Austin Cars sold by Austin Distributors, Wolseey & Hillman sold by G Mckenzie in Park Street; Packard and Buick sold by Khaitan Motors in Park Street; and Land Rover by Dewars Garage. All these Dealers had large showrooms and workshops; though the business volume was not very big; but because of prestige, they had to maintain large establishments. I also remember in Calcutta, all the Taxis were big cars only. The maximum number of taxis were either Pontiack or Chevrolet The mantle of ensuring that all the manufacturers reach out to their customers was ably carried out by the dealerships across the country. It was a huge responsibility. More than the money, the passion and commitment were the driving force of business then. As The Federation of Automobile Dealersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Associations (FADA) completes its fifty years of existence, my thoughts go out to all those dealerships that have been around for more than fifty years. In my view, these are the real torch bearers of FADA and the automotive industry at large. I wish FADA all the success for the next fifty years. May our tribe grow in the years to come!!!

Years

FOREWORD

Rahul Bajaj Chairman, Bajaj Auto Limited I congratulate the automobile dealership fraternity on its association FADA reaching a golden milestone. Any association’s achievements can only be measured by its contribution to its members’ business. FADA has grown to be one of the largest associations in the country by number of members and an all India spread. A no mean achievement and a testimony to its members’ satisfaction with its services. A broad based association like FADA has an excellent opportunity to create value for its members. It should use its golden jubilee to take stock of what it has achieved and what it should work towards. As an automobile manufacturer, our dealers are our front end. Our face to the customer. They crucially determine what the customer feels about us. On their capability and delivery of services rests the customer experience of our brand. For a very long time I was involved with our dealers. They have contributed greatly to our growth. They have been loyal to us. They have been a source of numerous very satisfying personal relationships. On this occasion I remember them fondly and thank them for their continued support. Times have changed since FADA was created. Change is the only certainty in business. On the whole new avenues have opened and are opening to improve the selling and servicing process. We should respond to the change and seek competitive advantage through being ahead of the curve of change. Digital mechanisms of communicating with customers have

the potential to revolutionise, as they would have already done in the more progressive dealerships, our customer interaction. Dealerships are now relatively big businesses. Even 20 years ago, men with modest means could become dealers. Now, the cost of land and inventory, make it a big business. So, it has to be managed differently, more professionally. But for each customer the buying and servicing process is unique and we have to deliver 100% customer satisfaction. Nothing less will do. In that they have to function like a personalised small business. The automotive industry delivers mobility which is an important aspect of the consumer’s life.this is why the future of the industry is assured. 20 years later we may be selling electric vehicles. But vehicles will continue to be sold. To me two things are important in running a successful enterprise. First, giving its people (and for me this includes employees, vendors and dealers) a sense of purpose and pride in belonging to the enterprise. Second, continually looking at adding value to every aspect of the enterprise, the source of which again are its people. Our enterprise will thrive only when society at large will want them to exist. Are we running such an operation is a question we should all ask ourselves. In this direction lies commercial success and personal happiness. Let us think and act big. With my best wishes to the FADA fraternity for their continued prosperity.

Years

FOREWORD

William C Fox Chairman, National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), USA Dear FADA Golden Jubilee Attendees, On behalf of NADA, our board members and the more than 17,000 franchised dealers in the United States, I congratulate you on the 50th anniversary of FADA. For over a decade, FADA and NADA have enjoyed an invaluable professional relationship. During NADA’s multiple visits to India, we have witnessed first-hand the advancement of your auto industry. The work FADA does on behalf of its dealers is vital to the success of the industry as a whole. Without the involvement of a strong dealer association, the voice of the dealer cannot be heard. Both FADA and NADA understand the critical role we play in advancing the interests of our members and helping our respective economies prosper.

Finally, we sincerely appreciate the work FADA has done with the International Working Group. This working group was established to allow the exchange of ideas and concerns that face dealer associations across the globe—and, as we all know, the auto industry is a global industry and we must all work together. Our mutual hope is that this dialogue will allow our respective organizations to bring back “best practices” to our associations providing security and sustainability for thousands of our hard-working and dedicated employees throughout the retail automobile market. Best wishes on this golden jubilee anniversary and a productive and prosperous 2015!

Years

VISION

Enhance Dealer Community Image In Society At Large The Indian Automotive Industry, which has emerged as one of the vibrant sectors of the Indian economy, is today confronted with new challenges and threats. With the advent of IT, internet and social media; customers today, are more mature and enlightened. While there is a wide range of vehicles to choose from, the new launches and new technologies vie for the customers’ attention in an intensely competitive market. Their expectations have skyrocketed when it comes to standards of quality of products and services. Automobile dealers are faced with the new realities and opportunities. They need to keep pace and equip themselves suitably to stand up to the challenges arising from the changing paradigm. The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations – FADA, the apex national body representing Automobile Dealers of India was founded in 1964 by four regional auto trade associations to protect and promote the Indian retail automobile market. The association has been alive to the challenges emerging from the paradigm shift in automotive business and is making all efforts to improve the viability and all-round efficiency of auto dealerships in this fiercely competitive environment. Even as there are some specific issues confronting auto retail at the local or state level, most of the problems are common to automobile dealers across the country - be it viability or profitability, shortage and training of manpower, taxation issues, owning and retaining the customers or complexities of various laws governing dealerships.

As FADA strives to tackle these challenges and promote common interest for sustained growth of automotive business, its role assumes great importance. FADA constantly strives to: • Develop progressive mindset and to equip Automobile Dealer to face the threats and challenges in the automotive business. • Encourage and promote the spirit of co-operation and goodwill among Automobile Dealers. • Work towards improving dealership viability / profitability and management skills. • Develop training and consulting services that benefits the Dealers in healthy growth. • Assist automobile dealers in a knowledgeable and professional manner to enable them meet the customer’s ever-growing needs. • Increase public awareness of improved customer satisfaction. • Be a bridge with Central & State Governments, media and other stakeholders in Automotive Business chain. • Address issues of national concern, such as pollution from automobiles, road safety, traffic congestion, taxation policies, etc. as related to auto dealers, from a common platform. • Develop and maintain an atmosphere of trust between Dealers and Principal to usher in a culture of collaboration.

FADA Council Meeting 1972-73, Chief Guest- C. Subramaniam, Honourable Union Minister and Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission

T S Santhanam Chennai 1964 - 1966

R R Iyer Kolkata 1966 - 1967

J M Rane Mumbai 1968 - 1969

K N Talwar New Delhi 1969 - 1971

M P Sanghvi Mumbai 1972 - 1973

FADA PRESIDENTS

1964 - 2014

R K Poddar Kolkata 1974

T K Seshadri Chennai 1975

S P Sanghi Mumbai 1976

A K Agarwal New Delhi 1977

M C David Kolkata 1978

V K Surendra Bangalore 1978 - 1980

Surendra Nath New Delhi 1981 - 1982

K P Jhunjhunwala Kolkata 1983 - 1984

Bharat M Sanghvi Mumbai 1985 - 1987

S Gopu Chennai 1987 - 1988

M Ct Muthiah Chennai 1988 - 1989

Ramesh Suri New Delhi 1989 - 1990

Ravi Poddar Kolkata 1990 - 1992

Arun Sanghi Mumbai 1992 - 1994

K R Raghavan Chennai 1994 - 1996

Rakesh Jain New Delhi 1996 - 1998

Vinay Nevatia Kolkata 1998 - 2000

Kailash Gupta Jabalpur 2000 - 2002

Ajit Chordia Chennai 2002 - 2003

Deshnidhi Kasliwal Kota 2003 - 2004

Jayendra Kachalia Mumbai 2004 - 2005

Binod Agarwal Kolkata 2005 - 2007

Pradip R Kamdar Ahmedabad 2007 - 2008

S P Shah Mumbai 2008 - 2010

Nikunj Sanghi Alwar 2010 - 2012

Years

Mohan Himatsingka Patna 2012 - 2014

K V S Prakash Rao Vijayawada 2014

VIP ATTENDANCE Second from left M. P. Sanghvi, then President FADA and K. N. Talwar, welcoming C. Subramaniam, Honourable Union Minister & Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission in 1972

FADA GLIMPSES INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING Visit to Lambretta Scooter Factory in Italy in 1962. (L to R) Italian Representative of Lambretta, M. A. Chidambaram-Chairman, API, K. P. Jhunjhunwala, Babu Malthem-MD, API Visit to Japan in 1984

AUTO SUMMIT Rahul Bajaj lighting the lamp at 1st Auto Summit in 2000 as Rakesh Jain, Keshub Mahindra, Vinay Nevatia and Rajnath Singh look on

PUBLICATIONS FADA introduced the brand new look of the association logo and journal in September 1999. Seen here is the first cover of the FADA Journal

REGIONAL CONVENTIONS & MEETINGS Vilasrao Deshmukh, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, lights the inaugural lamp at the Western Region Auto Convention in February 2005. 23

ANNUAL SESSIONS Ratan Tata addressing the participants of FADA Annual Session held at The Oberoi, Mumbai in September 2001

FADA ACADEMY (L to R) Pawan Goenka, S.P. Shah, S. V. Suderson during the FADA SIAM Safe Service held in 2010

INTERACTION WITH AUTOMOTIVE PERSONALITIES FADA Office Bearers with Rahul Bajaj, CMD, Bajaj Auto Ltd.

PRESS MEET FADA Office Bearers interacting with the members of press for the 1st Auto Summit in 2000

OPEN HOUSE SESSIONS Praveen Mahajan, Former Commissioner of Central Excise, Jaipur, addressing an Open House Session held on March, 2004 in Jaipur.

ADEA AWARDS The award winners with B. M. Munjal, Chairman, Hero Motocorp and Dilip Chenoy, MD & CEO, NSDC at the 1st Automotive Dealership Excellence Awards held in New Delhi, January 2010.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Across the years, FADA Lifetime Achievement Awards have been conferred on: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Kamal Kasliwal, Kamal & Co. K. P. Jhunjhunwala, J. J. Automotive T S Santhanam, TVS Group V T Velu, Souther Motors Group K. N. Talwar, Allied Motors A. K. Agarwal, Vikas Motors R D Kamdar, Automotive Manufacturers R. K. Poddar, Auto Distributors Indra Narayan Nundy, Nundy Automotives Devraj Chordia, Khivraj Motors M Ct Muthiah, The Reliance Motor Co. Bharat Sanghvi, Automotive Manufacturers Vinay Nevatia, Auto Centre Group Arun Sanghi Rakesh Jain

LIFETIME CONTRIBUTION In 2012, the 1st FADA Lifetime Contribution Award was presented to Rahul Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Auto.

2012 The 1st FADA Lifetime Contribution Award was also presented to Keshub Mahindra, Chairman Emeritus, Mahindra & Mahindra.

2014 The 2nd FADA Lifetime Contribution Award was presented to B. M. Munjal, Founder & Chairman, Hero Motocorp.

2014 The 2nd FADA Lifetime Contribution Award was also presented to Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Group.

INDUSTRY CAPTAINS SPEAK

Anand Mahindra

Arun Malhotra

Arvind Saxena

Chairman & Managing Director Mahindra & Mahindra

Managing Director Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd

President & Managing Director General Motors India

My compliments and congratulations to FADA on this milestone Golden Jubilee. We, in the Mahindra Group, enjoy an almost symbiotic connection with our dealers. They are our front line in the battle for the market place. They are the face that the customer sees, while making a car buying decision. They are our indispensable partners – our eyes, our ears, our public face and the umbilical cord that connects to our customer. I t is a source of great gratification that our dealers have always worked shoulder to shoulder with us in raising M&M to the pre-eminence it enjoys today. FADA has provided a wonderful platform for the dealership business to network, learn, introspect and plan for the challenges that are inherent in the volatile times in which we live. This fiftieth anniversary also has a sentimental aspect for me, since my father, the late Harish Mahindra was one of the earliest pioneers of automobile sales in India. He played a critical role in setting up the networks that have ensured our business leadership; and even more important he built the relationships with dealers that are our strength and that, in many cases, have endured from generation to generation. It would please him greatly to know the great progress that the dealer fraternity has made under FADA. My best wishes are with FADA as it drives forward into the next fifty years.

Congratulations FADA on your golden jubilee celebrations! The Indian automobile industry is poised to become the fourth largest automotive market and one of the significant contributors to this growth is the dealer network. There is little doubt that the ultimate challenge of winning customers lies with the dealer network. They are an integral part of our business, as play a pivotal role in taking our product to the end customers. But where there is rapid growth, there is also a dire need for skilled and trained man power. India automotive industry is definitely facing a shortage in this regard. FADA has been showing significant results in the area of skill and business development of automotive dealership network. Their focus on providing training in effective management of Sales and Service Quality across all Indian automotive dealerships is ensuring that our customers experience the level of care that exceeds their expectations. I want express my appreciation on FADA’s programs especially their guidance to the network about automotive business management and guiding the dealers in their resource planning, manpower training & infrastructure set up. It is very important that FADA along with SIAM works with OEMS and dealer partners to ensure long term sustainable growth of Indian auto industry.

I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to FADA on the occasion of its golden jubilee. Having been part of the Auto industry for over three decades, I have seen FADA grow over the years and make important contributions towards strengthening the bond between the Automotive dealers with the Auto OEM’s. My association with FADA dates back to the nineties. I wish FADA a very bright future. Keep doing all the good work and best of luck

Years

Brij Mohanlall Munjal

Eric Vas

Pawan Goenka

Founder & Chairman Hero Motocorp

President (Motorcycle Business) Bajaj Auto Ltd

President - Automotive & Farm Equipment Mahindra & Mahindra

My heartiest congratulations to FADA for crossing the significant milestone of its Golden Jubilee. It has been an exciting journey so far. I have had the good fortune of attending most of the annual sessions of FADA. FADA has played a key role in shaping India as an exciting and strong auto market that has attracted investments from all around the World. It has provided significant support to channel partners at the front end, and has helped them grow and evolve. FADA’s role in skill development is well known and I am especially delighted that this body has joined hands with SIAM and ACMA to form the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC). Talent development is a pressing need, for a country with a young and large working age population. I am glad FADA is playing its part towards fulfilling this need, and am sure ASDC will go a long way towards addressing the medium and long-term manpower requirements of automotive sector. I wish FADA the very best for the future, and seek the association’s support as we create a world-class auto industry in India.

Bajaj Auto Ltd, is delighted to join its dealerships in celebrating 50 years of FADA. Over the years, automotive dealers have cemented their position as long term value added partners of automobile companies such as ourselves. The successful evolution and modernisation of automobile dealerships to meet customers and OEMs requirement, is in no small measure due to FADAs positive intervention. Here’s wishing FADA the very best for the next 50 years.

The Indian automotive growth story in the past five decades has been remarkable. From monopoly to a flurry, from pure assembly to indigenous world-class products that are frugal yet futuristic. The ‘Made in India’ brand has become a force to reckon with at the global automotive stage. The supplier and dealer communities have played a significant role in partnering with OEMs and furthering the aspirations of the overall industry. Since its inception, FADA has consistently strived for growth and development of Indian auto retail, has created better alignment within the dealer fraternity and has provided mechanisms for concern redressal. In the recent past, FADA’s leadership team have intensified its efforts by showcasing global best practices and facilitating learnings in the Indian ecosystem. The Indian dealer fraternity have benefitted a great deal from these efforts and have ensured its dealer operations are best-in-class. The Automotive Dealership Excellence Awards (ADEA) is one of FADA’s noteworthy contribution that recognizes excellence in automotive retail. On behalf of everyone at Mahindra, I applaud FADA’s efforts and I look forward to a continued partnership amidst the challenging times that lie ahead.

INDUSTRY CAPTAINS SPEAK

Pawan Munjal

Ravi Chopra

Sumit Sawhney

Vice Chairman, CEO & Managing Director Hero Motocorp

Chairman & Managing Director Piaggio Vehicles

Country CEO & Managing Director Renault India Operations

Heartiest congratulations to FADA on its Golden Jubilee. FADA has emerged as a vital pillar of support for automobile dealers around the country. In partnership with automobile manufacturers and component makers, FADA has helped turn India into one of the World’s most exciting auto markets. FADA’s well organised biennial Convention of Automobile Dealers --- the Auto Summit -- is a widely anticipated industry event – since it attracts multiple stakeholders from across all levels. It is a great networking platform for members, has great takeaway value because of the knowledge it disseminates in addition to the issues it raises with policy makers and opinion makers in the National Capital. My best wishes go out to everyone associated with FADA and I am certain that with the Association’s continued support, India’s auto industry is well poised for robust growth.

The Automotive Industry is poised for tremendous growth. This means vast challenges on FADA, since FADA is and will be, an essential part of the Automotive Industry. In five decades of FADA’s existence it has evolved into a pillar of strength. It has not only provided support but also inputs to vehicle manufacturers and even insights into the customer psyche. This has helped vehicle manufacturers to remain customer centric and to build a strong bond with their customer base. FADA is so important that it is not possible to visualize auto industry without FADA. It creates a connect between manufacturers and end customers providing information onground realities of the real world. On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of FADA, I take the opportunity to wish the organization the very best in their endeavor to become a world class organization. I know FADA will prepare itself to continue to serve the Automotive Industry with vigor, determination and goodwill. Best of Luck!

1964 was a year of new beginnings. The Beatles made their American debut and appeared on the Billboard Charts; the first quartet invaded space and Cassius Clay emerged as Mohammed Ali. Closer home, four forward-thinking auto trade bodies, envisaging the explosive growth of the automotive sector in India, came together to form a national front that would drive the industry to new horizons. 50 years later, the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations has more than met its founding goals. As it celebrates its Golden Jubilee this year, Renault India Pvt. Ltd., a proud and grateful member of FADA, wishes it our heartiest congratulations. From supporting a strong partnership between dealers and auto manufacturers, setting up helplines for dealers, conducting think-tanks and field visits abroad and canvassing for international collaborations - FADA has consistently attempted to break new ground. We join you in celebrating your legacy, and wish you the very best for the way ahead. We are proud of our association with your federation which has grown from strength to strength, and we hope to change the face of the automobile industry together. I firmly believe your best years are yet to come, as India moves closer towards becoming one of the largest automobile markets in the world.

Years

S Sandilya

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Chairman Eicher Motors Limited

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Completing 50 years in a person’s life is considered crossing the half-way mark but in an Institution’s life it is just a small segment. Auto Industry all over the world is linked with its stakeholders in a very tight knit fashion. The entire eco-system is built on inter-dependency. While component suppliers and financiers do their part to support the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). It is the dealer fraternity which has a unique position of being in touch with the ultimate customer. It is the customers’ voice that enables the OEMs to design and manufacture products that are sold to the customers. Post Sales, the products have to be serviced and parts have to be provided through the entire life of the vehicle. Thus the dealer community has a very significant role to play as they are the touch point for the customers and have a much longer relationship than all the other stake holders. FADA has grown with the Auto Industry and has spread all over the country. Your Annual Functions, some of which I have had the privilege of attending, have also grown in stature and address issues of common interest to all the stakeholders. FADA’s involvement in the Skill Building activity through ASDC is also commendable. Keep up the good work.Let me once again Congratulate Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) for its successful completion of 50 years and pray for its growth in strength and stature and become a trend setter for the world.

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YEAR OLD DEALERSHIPS 5 decades before this book was put together, people communicated via telegram, were entertained by live theatre and recitals, vehicles were carburetted and directions were drawn on paper. But dealerships back then did exactly what they continue to do today, sell and service vehicles with earnestness! Here is a look back in time at the dealerships that existed then.

ARVIND MOTORS Established in: 1954 | Location: Mangalore

ounded by the Late Mr A Sripathi Rao, Arvind Motors Private Limited began its journey as a dealer for trucks manufactured by Tata Motors (previously TELCO). The dealership played a vital role by spearheading TELCOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission of revolutionising the automotive sector in India. Down south, it was Arvind Motors who created a pioneering impact by launching the dealership of vehicles manufactured by TELCO. Mr A Sripathi Raoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enterprising qualities supported by his visionary perspective blazed the path for the automotive sector in his hometown of Mangalore. The credit for the sustained development of the organisation and building up of its sales and service units goes to its founder who has steered the firm to

echelons of merit through his sound business acumen, flair for organisation and meticulous attention to detail. Arvind Motors is proud of its close association with Tata Motors for the last 60 years and has taken massive strides in the area of commercial vehicle dealerships. The common work ethics of Tata Motors and Arvind Motors has forged a strong and indelible partnership. Arvind Motors is currently managed by A Kishore Rao, A Ashok Rao, A Sanjay Rao and A Arjun Rao. Apart from dealing in vehicles from Tata Motors, the firm also deals in automobiles from Bajaj Auto Limited and Maruti Suzuki India Limited.

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Founder: Late A Sripathi Rao Presently Managed by: A Kishore Rao, A Ashok Rao, A Sanjay Rao and A Arjun Rao Brands managed: TATA Motors Ltd, Bajaj Auto Ltd, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd

ASHOK AUTO SALES Established in: 1956 | Location: Agra

shok Auto Sales has been a Tata Motors dealer in Agra since 1956. Founded by Ram Kishore Bansal, the 58-year old dealership is now nurtured by his daughter Dr Ranjana Bansal and grand children, Bharat Bansal and Pranati Bansal. With nearly six decades with Tata Motors, Ashok Auto Sales sells the entire range of Tataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial and passenger cars in the regions of Agra, Aligarh, Mathura, Etah, Etawah, Firozabad, Auraiya, Mainpuri and Hathras in UP. At present, the dealership has about 40 set-ups including showrooms, workshops and sales outlets in its territory of operation. It is all set to increase its network so that the visibility of Tata products and its services can reach both the cities and the rural areas.

The dealership has been recognised for its performance by Tata Motors, year after year. This journey with Tata Motors has been very rewarding and enriching as the work culture of honesty, integrity, dedication, sincerity with humility and compassion at Tata Motors is reflected in the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission, vision and value statement. With this strong foundation, Ashok Auto Sales enjoys the challenges of the automobile industry. The founder Ram Kishore Bansal at the age of 94 attends to the dealership on a regular basis and enjoys the challenge of achieving sales targets. This passion for achievement, developed over the 58-year long association with Tata Motors and instilled in everyone in the group, is the driving force behind Ashok Auto Sales.

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Founder: Ram Kishore Bansal Presently Managed by: Ranjana Bansal Brands managed: Tata Motors

AUSTIN DISTRIBUTORS Established in: 1938 | Location: West Bengal

t was in the late 1950s that the founder of Austin Distributors, the Late RP Patodia set about the task of building this organisation. Mr Patodia was associated with various fields of business and industry. During his career as a serviceman, in the late 1950s and early 1960s, he was associated with automobile marketing, at a time when the industry was going through a revolution. Imports were being stopped and Indian made cars were just being introduced. He anticipated the demand for automobiles in the growing Indian market and embarked on his career in automobiles. He formed the HirePurchase Association and Motor Industries Association of Kolkata along with other dealer associates. Austin Distributors Private Limited was founded in the year 1938 and was one of the pioneer companies in the automobile business, not only in Kolkata but also in India. Austin was the agent for British Leyland UK for the Austin range of cars. The company was a premier selling house and the number of Austin cars on the roads of India, some of which still ply today, testify the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selling position as well as the popularity of Austin vehicles. Apart from cars, Austin also handled the distribution of light commercial vehicles manufactured in the UK and a host of other products including

two-wheelers from reputed companies. The Late RP Patodia was the first to introduce the Hindustan Motorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ambassador cars in Kolkata and the keys of the first car werehanded over to the Late Dr BC Roy, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal. Once the Government of India stopped imports of vehicles, the company quickly identified a number of new Indian products under the able ownership of the founder and stepped in the market once again with fanfare. Austin was associated with the introduction of Indian two-wheelers in the market at that time and helped to set up an unbeatable marketing chain in the eastern region, distributing Enfield motorcycles. The Austin group as of today, handles a host of brands like Hyundai (Austin Hyundai), Fiat at Chowringhee (Austin Fiat), HMSI (Aradhana Honda) and Royal Enfield (Austin Enfield). Austin Distributors Private Limited is one of the largest automobiles dealers in eastern India. It has received acclaim from far and wide, and continues to maintain and improve the market share and strength by adding new dealerships. Austin is now setting up a state of the art Auto Mall at Rajarhat in Bihar with a built up area of 1,50,000 square feet.

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Founder: Late R P Patodia Presently Managed by: Sanjay Patodia Brands managed: Royal Enfield, Hyundai, Fiat, Ambassador

AUTO CENTRE

Established in: 1960 | Location: Kolkata

uto Centre was a family partnership firm floated in 1960, that began its journey by setting up a dealership for Bajaj Auto. Founded by Vinay Nevatia, the group has grown by leaps and bounds. As of today, Auto Centre is the longest serving dealership of Bajaj Auto in the country. The group holds a dealership for Bajaj two-wheelers in North Kolkata and Guwahati, and for Bajaj threewheelers in Kolkata. Apart from these, the group also holds dealerships for Tata Motors’ commercial vehicles and passenger car range which also includes Jaguar and Land Rover cars. The French carmaker, Renault’s distributorship also comes under Auto Centre’s fold. The group clocks an annual turnover in excess of Rs 1,000 crore. In the early years, Auto Centre catered to the entire eastern part

of India including parts of Bihar and Tripura. The Assam region was allocated to the group in 1973. The company has thrived on its performance and has earned several accolades and medals over the years. The 50th year celebrations of the group were presided over by none other than Rahul Bajaj, chairman of Bajaj Auto. Vinay Nevatia, the founder of Auto Centre is recognised in the industry as the torch bearer of FADA and the Motor Industries Association of Kolkata, particularly in eastern India. Vinay Nevatia also works as an active Rotarian and has been closely associated with Garments Manufacturers’ Association, Engineering Export Promotion Council (FICCI) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).

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Founder: Vinay Nevatia Presently Managed by: Vinay Nevatia Brands managed: Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Renault India

AUTO DISTRIBUTORS Established in: 1949 | Location: Kolkata

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uto Distributors Ltd. was formed in 1949 and the showroom was inaugurated by the then chairman of Chrysler Corporation. Late Mr. Anandilall Poddar was the founder chairman of the dealership and a pioneer of hire-purchase, automobiles and real estate in Kolkata. Mr. Rajendra Kumar Poddar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the eldest son, took over the mantle of the business after the untimely demise of Mr. Anandilall Poddar (aged 47 years) in 1961. The father-son duo of Mr. Subir Poddar & Shree Vardhan Poddar are currently managing the business and its expansion.

Founder: Late Shri. Anandilall Poddar Presently Managed by: Subir Poddar, Sree Vardhan Poddar Brands managed: Fargo Trucks, Chrysler, Premier Automobiles, Ashok Leyland, API, Mahindra, Daewoo Motors, Tata Motors, TVS Motors

AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURERS

Established in: 1948 | Location: Bombay, Hyderabad, Saurashtra

utomotive Manufacturers Private Limited was incorporated in the year 1948 under the stewardship of the Late Mr Manharlal P Sanghvi and Mr PP Sanghvi. Automotive Manufacturers Private Limited was appointed as the principal dealer by M/s Leyland Motors Ltd, UK for developing and marketing its products in the erstwhile states of Bombay, Hyderabad and Saurashtra. Apart from marketing Leyland vehicles, the company was also engaged in the business of assembling Leyland vehicles imported in CKD condition from the United Kingdom. Leyland Motors entered into a financial and technical collaboration with Ashok Motors Ltd (AML) with a view to progressively manufacture Leyland vehicles in India. Thus from 1949 to 1955, AML assembled approximately 2,000 Leyland and Albion (a company Leyland Motors had acquired in the

post war years) vehicles at its Kurla workshop in Mumbai. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when the company started concentrating its energies on marketing and rendering after-sales-service for Ashok Leyland Ltd, Madras. After the re-organisation of the states of India in 1956, the company spread its periphery of activities in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. In order to maintain high standards of efficiency, the company established fullfledged branches with modernised workshops equipped to undertake overhauling of vehicles and reconditioning of components. The company undertook the dealership of Mahindra & Mahindra in the year 1958, Maruti Suzuki in 1986, Kobelco in 2006 and Leyland Deere in 2010. At present, there are 107 the establishments under Automotive Manufacturers, both in terms of owned and leased premises.

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Founder: Late Manharlal P Sanghvi Presently Managed by: XXXXXXXXXX Brands managed: Ashok Leyland, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Kobelco

BAFNA MOTORS Established in: 1958 | Location: Mumbai

he dealership business was started by the Late Mr Mishrilal C Bafna in the year 1958 at Nanded, Maharashtra. Over the decades, the group’s values have been its touchstone, defining the way it conducts business, sets goals, responds to challenges and engages with varied stakeholders at all times. The group has been involved with the business of logistics and of transporting chassis and passenger vehicles since 1958. Bafna Motors’ journey began with the opening of a dealership for Tata motors in Aurangabad. But since then, it has progressed into a state-wide network extending from Mumbai to Latur covering towns like Ratnagiri, Raigad and Nanded. The dealership is now on the path to a pan India presence. As an experienced business house, Bafna Motors has a wide reach and recall value in the automotive market. The group has

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always focused on being customer centric which in turn has paid huge dividends for the dealership. Today, Bafna Motors is one of Tata Motors’ most revered dealerships. Bafna Motors employs over 2,000 skilled personnel and the total sales it records in the state of Maharashtra annually is close to 15,000 vehicles. Bafna Motors has won numerous awards over the years including, Highest Sale of ICVs (Intermediate Commercial Vehicles) and Prima trucks for the year 2012-2013, and Overall Best Performance in the Western Region, both from Tata Motors. Currently, the dealership is headed by the Late Mr Mishrilal C Bafna’s son, Sumatiprasad M Bafna who has in turn, inducted his son Arjun Bafna into the dealership business in the last two years.

Founder: Mishrilal C Bafna Presently Managed by: Sumatiprasad M Bafna Brands managed: Tata Motors

BHANDARI AUTOMOBILES

Established in: 1965 | Location: Kharagpur

t beginning of the 20th century, the Bhandari family moved from the comforts of their base in Jaipur to the bustling railway city of Kharagpur (West Bengal). They carried out business as traditional money lenders for a major part of the century. It was then that the family was bitten by the automobile bug which led them to establish the dealership for Hindustan Motor Trucks in the year 1965. Bedford Trucks, as they were called in those days, commanded a niche market. The group was given the award for The Most Promising Dealer by the then president of Hindustan Motors, SL Bhatter. The group then became the sub-dealer to the main dealer of Tata Motors in the year 1971 and later on, a direct sub-dealer for the company. In the year 1979, under the chairmanship of the Late Mr Sumant Moolgaokar, the Bhandari group was appointed as the dealer for Tata Motors for the

districts of Midnapore and Bankura in West Bengal. The group remained rooted to its traditional business of financing the trucks in addition to selling them. In the years that followed, the Bhandari group added a number of brands like Kinetic, Philips and Godrej to its business portfolio. Eventhough the group flourished in all of its ventures, in the year 1999 the Bhandari group decided to focus its energies on the automobile industry. In the year 2001 the group became a dealer for Maruti-Suzuki passenger cars. With a total strength of over 3,000 employees committed to making Bhandari Automobiles the most prominent name in the trade and under the leadership of managing director, Sanjay Bhandari and chairman Vijay Singh Bhandari, the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foray into the automobile industry continues even after five generations and nearly a century.

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Founder: Vijay Bhandari Presently Managed by: Sanjay Bhandari, Vijay Bhandari Brands managed: Hindustan Motors, Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki

COMMERCIAL AUTO SALES GROUP Established in: 1956 | Location: Lucknow

he journey of Commercial Auto Sales Group, generally recognised as the Auto Sales Group, began since the inception of automobile manufacturing in India post Independence. Inaugurated, in 1956 by the then managing director of Tata Engineering & Locomotive Company Limited (TELCO), the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first dealership was inaugurated in Lucknow and named Motor & General Sales. With the increase in sales, the group forayed into newer territories and opened two more branches at Allahabad and Kanpur under the name of M/s Auto Sales and M/s Kailash Motors in 1958. After mutual agreements and division of territories, the Allahabad dealership was rechristened M/s Commercial Auto Sales Private Limited under the control of Mr Brij Mohan Gupta in 1979. The present incumbent, Mr Sanskar Gupta

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belongs to the third generation of the Lala Devi Chand Group of Companies that has established itself as one of the most prestigious Tata Motors dealership of northern India. The extended family of the group has Tata dealerships in large parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and is proud of its association with the Tata group.

Founder: Brij Mohan Gupta Presently Managed by: Sanskar Gupta Brands managed: Royal Enfield, Hyundai, Fiat, Ambassador

FRENCH MOTOR CAR CO. Established in: 1905 | Location: Kolkata

he French Motorcar Company Limited was established in the year 1905 in Kolkata. Founded by the French American diamond merchant, Michael Sevadjian , the company started as the distributor of vehicles from the stables of Minerva Pamhard, Mors-Berliet, Bean Bianchi, Cadillac and Studebaker. In addition to these cars, the French Motorcar Company also sold Berliet-White & Federal Lorries. In the year 1920, the company was converted into a public limited company. The firm, by virtue of its dedication to customer satisfaction, soon grew by the multiples. In the years that followed, the company started full-blown dealerships for General Motors, Jaguar, Daimler, Vauxhall, Standard-Triumph, Studebaker and Opel. In the year 1925, Sir Onkamal Jatia became the first Indian director of the company. Its breakthrough into the Indian automotive

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scene, however, was in the year 1954, when it was appointed as the dealer for Tata Motors for the states of West Bengal and Assam. At present, the French Motor Car Company Limited is managed by Sandeep Jatia. The company has sales outlets across West Bengal and Assam, with its head office at Bose Road in Kolkata. The after-sales service by the firm is at par with industry standards with readily available spares parts at all times, ensuring complete peace of mind for the customers.

Founder: Michael Sevadjian Presently Managed by: Sandeep Jatia Brands managed: Minerva Panhard, Mors-Berliet, Bean Bianchi, Cadillac, Studebaker, Berliet White, Federal Lorries, General Motors, Diamler, Vauxhall, Standard Triumph, Opel, Tata Motors,

GARAPATI GARAGE Established in: 1948 | Location: Vijayawada

arapati Garage was started by the Late Shri Garapati Venkateswara Rao during the year 1948. With his humble beginnings as an agent for Hindustan Ideal Insurance Company, the founder actively participated in the Dandi March and was heavily involved in India’s freedom struggle. Despite his lack of educational qualifications, Garapati Venkateswara Rao became head of both the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FAPCCI) and the Andhra Motor Merchant Association (AMMA). The firm’s foray into automobiles began with it operating as an agent for M/s Ashoka Motors, for the promotion of Austin Cars. In the year 1954, the dealership for Fargo Trucks and Plymouth Cars, under Sundaram Motors, was signed up. The dealership has to its credit the accomplishment of having sold the highest number of Fargo trucks in India. In the year 1960, a relationship with Mahindra & Mahindra was established to promote international tractors and jeeps. The association was built over 50 years and the founder shared a very close and engaging relationship with both the Late Shri Harish Mahindra and Shri Keshub Mahindra. Mahindra & Mahindra’s investment in the relationship was evident from the fact that

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Keshub Mahindra had once sent his executive team in his private aircraft to attend a new facility inauguration of the dealership. Another notable moment for Garapati Garage was when Mr Anand Mahindra called Shri Garapati Venkateswara Rao to wish him on his 90th birthday. The organisation currently deals in the complete range of off-road vehicles from Polaris Industries and products fromTerex Construction Equipment, while handling the distribution of spares for Eicher commercial vehicles.

Founder: Garapati Venkatesh Rao Presently Managed by: K V S Prakash Rao Brands managed: Eicher

HOWRAH MOTOR CO LTD

Established in: 1918 | Location: Kolkata

owrah Motors is one of Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest automobile ancillary business units present today. It was established in 1918, near Howrah Maidan and dealt in automotive batteries, tyres and spare parts. Four year later, in 1922, Howrah Motors shifted its operation to Brabourne Road, besides the Supreme Court building when the new avenue was constructed to connect the Central Avenue. One or two automobiles started coming to Bombay (now Mumbai) and Calcutta in the first decade of the 20th century. Calcutta, being the then capital of India, the second capital of the British Empire and the controlling centre of Great Britain for administration of Asia and Australia, picked up business endeavours in the automobile line in the second decade of the 20th century. Such a favourable situation augmented establishment of The Howrah Motor Co Ltd under the Companies Act, 1913 as the oldest automobile unit in Asia and Australia. In the 1950s, Howrah Motors became the biggest automobile ancillary business house in Asia and Australia. It was the sole importer of cars by General Motors of USA for the eastern region since the Second World War. When General Motors left India, they

intended to hand over their business operations and thus formed India Motors Parts & Accessories Ltd, awarding 25 per cent of the share of the inherent company to Howrah Motors in recognition of sole distributorship of the parent company for the eastern region of India. During the 1980s, it had about 100 exclusive sole franchises including MicoBosch, Lucas-TVS, India Pistons Repco Group, Hindustan Motors, Standard Motors, (Fiat) Automobile Products of India, Rane group, TVS group, Yenkay Group, Clevite Group, Simpson Group, Fritz Filter, Allite bulb, Hella horn and more. Howrah Motors had branches at Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, Guwahati, Dhanbad, Cuttack, Brahmapur, Malda, Howrah, Siliguri and in Bhowanipur and Dalhousie Square (now called B.B. D Bagh) in Calcutta. Howrah Motors never accepted distributorship of whole vehicles for a meagre margin, even though it was repeatedly approved by Hindustan Motors for passenger cars and Tata for commercial vehicles. Howrah Motors also had several petrol pumps under Burmah Shell Oil Storage & Distribution Corporation. But unfortunately due to family problems, this oldest company of Asia has been reduced today to a small business unit. It now has branches at Guwahati and Beltola

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Founder: Raghunath Dey Presently Managed by: Rajarshi Dey Brands managed: Mico-Bosch, Lucas-TVS, Repco Group, Hindustan Motors, Standard Motors, FIAT, TVS, Venkay Group, Clevite Group, Simpson Group

INDIA GARAGE

Established in: XXXX | Location: Bangalore

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Founder: XXXXXXXXXX Presently Managed by: XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX Brands managed: XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX

INDUSTRIAL & FARM EQUIPMENT Established in: 1975 | Location: Guwahati

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he Goenka family has been in the dealership business since 1965 as the dealer for M/s Hindustan Motors Limited. This was the first modern dealership in north east India. The dealership was a state of the art 3S facility. Spread across 40,000sqft, the dealership included a fully equipped workshop on GS Road in Guwahati. Raj Kumar Goenka started Industrial and Farm Equipment in Guwahati in the year 1975 which was a dealership that dealt solely in Massey Ferguson Tractors. Subsequently in the year 1984, Industrial and Farm Equipment undertook the dealership of Mahindra & Mahindra Limited for their Automotive Division. Today it is the largest dealership for Mahindra vehicles in the north east Indian region. The dealership is now being managed by Raj Kumar Goenka and his son Varun Goenka who is a holds a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in business administration from Australia. The dealership was recently awarded the Mahindra Dealer Excellence award in the year 2012.

Founder: Raj Kumar Goenka Presently Managed by: Raj Kumar Goenka, Varun Goenka Brands managed: Massey Ferguson Tractors, since 1975 Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (Atomotive Division), since 1984

J J AUTOMOTIVE Established in: 1956 | Location: Kolkata

n July 1956, K P Jhunjhunwala floated a partnership company called Auto Enterprises in Kolkata to look after the distributorship of Lambretta Scooters, which were manufactured by API. This was his first venture into the automobile business. In 1958, he added the dealership of Tempo Three-Wheelers under the trade name, Bengal Automobiles. These were manufactured by Bajaj Tempo, now known as Force Motors. Bengal Automobiles became the biggest distributor for three-wheeler Tempos, selling about 100 vehicles per month, with permits as ‘goods carriers’along with Matador Vehicles’ Tempo Traveler. K P Jhunjhunwala also held revered positions such as the president of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association, the Indian Roads and Transport Development Association and the Motor Industries Association. The Paul Harris Fellow is also the Honorary Consul of the Republic Of Cyprus in Kolkata. His son, Anil Jhunjhunwala, joined the family business in 1980, after receiving a chartered accountant’s degree and launched the first leasing company in Kolkata, called JJ Leasing. Later in 1995, Anil Jhunjhunwala added a car distributorship for Peugeot

Passenger Cars, that were manufactured by Premier Automobiles. Subsequently, in 1998, JJ Automotive Limited undertook the dealership of Hyundai Motor India under the trade name Bengal Hyundai. Today it is recognised as a Hyundai Elite dealer. The dealership has four modern showrooms and four workshops in and around Kolkata, as well as a used car showroom called Hyundai Advantage. K P Jhunjhunwala had also branched into the automotive spare parts business in 1960 when he undertook the distributorship of Mahle Piston and Goetze Piston & Rings for the eastern region. JJ Automotive, through its six branches at Guwahati, Cuttack, Patna, Ranchi, Siliguri and Kolkata, has become the distributor for many MNCs such as Federal Mogul for pistons and rings, Amalgamation Repco, Amalgamation Valeo, KBX Brake Parts, KPSG Engine Bearings, Talbros Gaskets & QH, Delphi, FAG Bearing, VIR Industries, Jai Spring and Knorr Bremse System.

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Founder: K P Jhunjhunwala Presently Managed by: K P Jhunjhunwala, Anil Jhunjhunwala Brands managed: Lambretta, Force Motors, Peugueot, Diamler Benz, Hyundai Motors

JASPER INDUSTRIES

Established in: 1955 | Location: Vijayawada

asper Industries Private Limited is a dealer of commercial and passenger vehicles from Tata Motors, operating in united Andhra Pradesh (Now Telangana and AP). The dealership is one of the most revered and trusted dealers of Tata Motors and has been associated with the Tata group since 1955. Badaga Seshagiri Rao started the dealership for TELCO by the name of B Seshagiri Rao & Sons in the year 1955. The spacious facility at Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), where the 312 model of the Tata Mercedes-Benz Truck was originally sold and serviced, has become an iconic landmark. In fact, the location of this showroom is commonly known as the Benz Circle in Vijaywada. With its modest beginnings, Jasper has grown at a phenomenal pace and established many sales showrooms and service stations in Hyderabad and Vijayawada with nearly 100 touch points spread all over its marketing territory in the states of AP and Telengana. Jasper has earned the reputation of being a high valued dealer over the years. It has been the recipient of Best All Round Performance in Commercial Vehicle Business Award from Tata Motors for two consecutive financial years, 2011-12 and 2012-2013. During this relationship with Tata Motors that has spanned

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over 60 years, Jasper has been instrumental in establishing robust brand equity for Tata Motors. At present Jasper is managed by Sumanth Badiga and has also won awards such as Outstanding Market Share Performance in Intermediate Commercial Vehicles segment, Best in Workshop Assessment Score, Highest Sales Of Winger and many more. These laurels are a testimony of its strong customer base, enduring customer relationships, robust business practices and overall operational achievements.

Founder: Shri. B Seshagiri Rao Presently Managed by: Shri. Sumanth Badiga Brands managed: TATA Motors

K S GROUP OF COMPANIES Established in: 1950 | Location: Jaipur

ounded by Shri Kalyan Singhji in Jaipur, the KSD group of companies was initially known as National Motors. The dealership sold Ferguson tractors till 1960 after which it became the dealer for Massey Ferguson tractors which were produced by licensed manufacturers, TAFE (Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited) in Chennai. With an annual sale of 10,000 tractors, the firm now sells the highest number of tractors for TAFE in India and has been receiving the award for best sales and service from the tractor manufacturer for the last 15 years. KS Motors Private Limited was started in 1980 for the sale of Ford trucks and for the next three years, it sold the highest number of Ford trucks for the manufacturer Simpson & Co Limited, Chennai. In 1983, after production of Ford trucks ceased in India, KS Motors took up the dealership of TVS two-wheelers made by TVS Motor Co in 1985 in Jaipur. At present, Jaipur has four TVS showrooms at key locations, MI Road, Tonk Road, Raja Park and Mansarover. In addition, KS Motors has 40 sub-dealers for TVS motorcycles in and around Jaipur. KS Motors thus records an annual sale of 25,000 TVS two-wheelers. In the year 1990, KS Motors Private Limited was appointed as the dealer for utility vehicles

and pickups by Mahindra, thanks to the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reach, reputation and service quality. The firm now posts a combined annual sales figure of 15,000 units for Mahindra including cars, buses, trucks and loader excavators. In the year 1997, Ford India Limited appointed KS Motors as the dealer for Ford cars in Jaipur. This led to the setting up of seven well equipped Ford outlets across Rajasthan which currently clock a combined sales figure of about 3,500 cars. The KS group of companies is now run by Kishore Singh Gehlot who joined the business in 1972. The KS Group employs about 3,500 people, some of whom have been with the group for 30 to 40 years.

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Founder: Shri. Kalyan Singh Gehlot Presently Managed by: Kishore Singh Gehlot, Karan Singh Gehlot Brands managed: Massey Ferguson, Ford, TVS, Mahindra

KAILASH MOTORS

Established in: 1958 | Location: Kanpur

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ailash Motors was founded by Dr Ishwar Chandra in the year 1958 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The partnership based firm has been dealing in Tata commercial vehicles for over 57 years and through the course of time, built a very strong reputation for its creditworthiness and quality services. The dealership business in India is a highly competitive one and in spite of it, the dealership has provided increased returns to both its partners as well as employees. The turnover of the firm during 2013-14 was Rs 82.4 crore and in the financial year 2014-15, it is expected to be close to Rs 100 crore. The firm has fully equipped Tata showrooms at Kanpur, Farrukhabad and Kannauj and an authorised workshop at Chakarpur, Kanpur. The showrooms display the latest models by Tata Motors as well as an array of accessories. The company has installed sufficient infrastructure facilities to provide quality after sales services to the satisfaction of customers. During the last 57 years of its association with Tata Motors, the firm won numerous awards on several occasions. These awards include Best Performance in terms of Sales and Service. At present, Kailash Motors is handled by Vineet Chandra.

Founder: Dr. Ishwar Chandra Presently Managed by: Vineet Chandra Brands managed: Tata Motors - Commercial Vehicles

KAMAL & CO

Established in: 1936 | Location: Jaipur

tarted in the year 1936 as a small proprietary shop selling sewing machines, the Kamal and Company has drawn on the leadership and vision of its founder, the Late Shri Kamal Kasliwal to grow into a diversified conglomerate of business brought forth to its current avatar by his children. The group believes that its success is due to a strong ethical foundation, the dedication of its staff and the cooperation of all business associates. The group celebrates 75 years of its existence and it looks forward with even better prospects. Over the years, the group has witnessed tremendous change across the globe â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it in technology, society, politics or the needs and aspirations of an individual. However, the house of Kamal and Company has successfully adapted to and partnered the change in the years gone by. In the year 1948, Kamal and Company was appointed as the dealer for vehicles by Dodge, Desoto and Fargo. The group also began building bodies for vehicles in the same year. In the year 1952, it got the dealership for Fiat, Premier Auto and Burmah Shell. Capitalising on its vehicle body building expertise, the group designed and manufactured a 100 per cent indigenous fire tender in 1962. The following year, in 1963, the group got the dealership for

Bajaj Auto, the first in the state of Rajasthan. In the year 1972, the group expanded its footprint in Rajasthan by opening dealerships for Bajaj and Fiat in Kota. The group forayed into the light commercial vehicle sector by opening the Bajaj tempo dealership in 1978. The group then diversified its areas of operations, albeit within the realm of the automobile world by launching an NBFC (NonBanking Financial Company) as well as building an indigenous line of garage equipment under the brand of Kamex. 1997 was the year when the group was appointed as the dealer for Tata Motors and in 2003 for Hyundai cars. In 2007, it added Tata Motors LCV dealership to the portfolio along with Honda cars. The group then entered the luxury car dealership space. Owing to the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expertise and experience over the years, Audi appointed Kamal and Company as the dealer for Audi cars in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The Japanese carmaker, Nissan too appointed the group as a dealer in 2011. The third generation of the family has joined the business and brings with it a dynamic force seeking to establish new horizons in areas which are congruent with the sustainable development of the group.

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Founder: Late Shri Kamal Kasliwal Presently Managed by: Payonidhi Kasliwal, Dayanidhi Kasliwal, Deshnidhi Kasliwal Brands managed: Audi, FIAT, Bajaj Auto, Hyundai

KAMANI GROUP

Established in: 1919 | Location: Jamshedpur

he Late Narbheram Hansraj Kamani, one of the most renowned businessmen of Jamshedpur, started out with a sole proprietorship firm named Bombay Stores, a house of varieties dealing with high end wines, provisions, perfumery, confectionary, crockery, patent medicines, presentation novelties, cigarettes and shoes. This was later on diversified into authorised dealerships for Minorva, Hudson, Dodge, Citroen Truck & Lorries, Ford Motors Ltd. Cars and their spare parts. The company also dealt with ancillaries like Castrol, Goodyear, Dunlop, Michelin and Exide Batteries. Narbheram Hansraj Kamani founded Narbheram & Co in the year 1919 which later on became the parent company of the Kamani Group of Companies in Jamshedpur. Under the leadership of Narbheram Hansraj Kamani, the group companies flourished and became leading automobile dealers in unified Bihar. As part of the Kamani Group, the following companies are operating in Jharkhand under the able guidance of Narbheram Hansrajâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandson, Rajen P Kamani. Narbheram Agencies Pvt Ltd was incorporated in 1997 and has been engaged in the trading of a variety of consumer durables. In the year 2004-05, the firm established

the dealership of Hero Honda Motors Ltd, at Adityapur, Jamshedpur for its motorcycles and scooters. The company set up a state-of-the-art showroom and workshop facilities to provide better service and optimum satisfaction to the customers. Narbheram Leasing Co Pvt Ltd was established in 1986 for the leasing of fourwheelers and commercial vehicles and sale of all type of consumer durables. With assets valued over Rs 17 crore, the company also provides individual and corporate loans to various companies. Enar Rubber Reclaim Industries Pvt Ltd, incorporated in the year 2012 is a rubber reclaim plant for production of reclaimed rubber of different grades. Enar Industrial Enterprises Ltd incorporated in 1978 started its business activities in 1984 with the dealership of Tata Motors Ltd at Bokaro Steel City for their complete range of commercial vehicles. With the efforts of devoted employees and able guidance of the managing director, Rajen P Kamani, the company achieved highest growth and expanded its business by opening various sales outlets at Dhanbad, Hazaribagh, Ramgarh, Ranchi and Koderma. The Kamani Group has set up a second state-

Years

Founder: Late Narbheram Hansraj Kamani Presently Managed by: Rajen P Kamani Brands managed: Tata Motors

KHIVRAJ HINDUSTAN MOTORS & ESCORTS LTD Established in: 1961 | Location: Chennai Years

ounded by Shri Khivraj Chordia and Shri K Devraj Chordia, the glorious five decade long journey of the Khivraj Group started with a modest step when the company was envisaged and took up the dealership for Hindustan Motors in 1961, dealing in the erstwhile Ambassador brand of cars in Chennai. This was a very bold step as back in those days, Chennai bore a traditional cityscape. Under the able leadership and through the business acumen of the founder, Shri Khivraj Chordia, the group forayed into a venture with Bajaj as early as five decades ago. Khivraj, as a group, has always been an active participant in supporting and promoting any good Indian brand. When Bajaj started its operations with its automobile division manufacturing twowheelers and three-wheelers, the Khivraj Group took up this venture in Chennai and promoted the product line. Back then, the decision to partner with a new brand like Bajaj in itself stands as a testimony of the vision and foresight of the founder who knew that this venture was going to culminate into a long term relationship for fruitful and harmonious business which it continues to be, even today. At present, Khivraj operates as a multi location dealership in Chennai with various divisions operating across different pockets of

Chennai, retailing and servicing thousands of Bajaj vehicles across various spheres of sales, service, spares and accessories. The ability and spread of Khivraj Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venture with Bajaj can be assessed by the fact that in an auto-rickshaw populated city like Chennai, Khivraj is the only representative of Bajaj three-wheelers with a market share of over 95 per cent. This means that virtually out of every 100 auto rickshaws plying on the roads in Chennai, 95 are from Bajaj - all of which are sold by the Khivraj Group. Khivraj Group saw great scope and potential in Maruti Suzuki while undertaking the dealership of the carmaker, back in 1996. Considering the formidable force that Maruti is as of today, the vision and business acumen of the group cannot be disputed. Today, Khivraj Maruti has many renowned outlets at most important sections of Chennai which cover not only the standard 3S (sales, service and spare parts) requisites but also take care of the carmakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pre-owned cars division called Maruti True Value. The year 2015 saw the Khivraj Group enter the sports biking segment to cater to the younger demographic of the city. The Khivraj Group is also a dealer for Renault India and MAN trucks which began a new chapter in the history of the group.

Founder: Shri Khivraj Chordia, Shri K Devraj Chordia Presently Managed by: XXXXXXX Brands managed: Hindustan Motors, Bajaj Auto, Maruti True Value, Ranault India, MAN Trucks

M.G. MOTORS

Established in: 1956 | Location: Delhi

eginnings In the early 1920s, a young man named Motilal Ghanshyamdas Sanghi from Jodhpur, started a general merchandise shop on a loan of ` 5,000. Despite the humble beginnings, he was driven by a burning desire to be successful and he soon became the largest retailer in the state of Jodhpur. Seth Motilal Sanghi, as he affectionately came to be known, then went on to obtain dealerships from General Motors and RollsRoyce Motor Cars and had also begun to sell a new car called the Austin Seven produced by Sir Herbert Austin in England. By the 1940s, the Sanghi Group had established a vast network for the sales, service and spare parts of cars spread over Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, Kota, Ajmer, Bikaner, Mount Abu, Bombay (now Mumbai) across Madhya Pradesh and Delhi. In 1954, the AK Sanghi Group became the distributor of the largest Indian commercial vehicle manufacturer (Then known as TELCO, now TML) for the Delhi region, under the name and style of Supreme Motors. The group also took up distributorship for the popular Jeeps manufactured by Mahindra & Mahindra under Sanghi Motors, Delhi. In 1981, due to a policy change, Delhi was withdrawn as a territory for

distributorship by TELCO and leading to the ceasing of operations for Supreme Motors, in place of which M/s MG Motors was born. Today, the word Sanghi has become synonymous with automobile trade in India, enjoying tremendous goodwill built over 60 years. MG Motors is proud to be a part of this great legacy and it strives to preserve this for its future generations. MG Motors M/s MG Motors (MGM) is a partnership firm registered in 1981 to carry on the business of commercial vehicle distribution for Tata Motors Limited. The Late Mr Amrit Kumar Sanghi is the patriarch of MGM and of the AK Sanghi Group. The AK Sanghi group has a long association with the business of Commercial Vehicle Distribution for Tata Motors Limited, which had started from M/s Supreme Motors Ltd in 1954 for the Delhi region. the The Late Mr AK Sanghiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son, Ajay Sanghi is the managing partner of the firm with 30 years of commercial vehicle distribution and sales experience under his belt. His sons, Abhyudaya Sanghi and Abhinav Sanghi, represent the fourth generation in the Sanghi family legacy and assist him in the business of automobiles. The firm enjoys high customer confidence due to its ethical and honest practices. The

Years

Founder: Motilal Ghanshyamdas Sanghi Presently Managed by: Sanskar Gupta Brands managed: Royal Enfield, Hyundai, Fiat, Ambassador

M K SANGHI MOTORS Established in: 1920 | Location: Mumbai

he MK Sanghi Group had extremely humble beginnings. In the early 1920s, a young Motilal Sanghi from Jodhpur, Rajasthan decided to start a general merchandise shop with a loan of Rs 5,000. Driven by enthusiasm and a burning desire to be successful, he soon became the largest retailer in the state. Passionate for cars, he then laid the foundations for one of the first and largest automobile dealership empires in the sub-continent. Motilal Sanghi obtained dealerships from General Motors, USA and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, England. He also sold the Austin Seven in India. By the 1940s, Seth Motilal Sanghi, as he was known by then, had established a vast network of sales, service and spare parts for cars, spread across Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, Kota, Ajmer, Bikaner, Mt Abu, Indore, Mumbai and Delhi. In 1952, the Government of India asked all car makers who did not have plans to manufacture cars in India to shut their operations, which resulted in manufacturers like General Motors leave the Indian market. The group then became a distributor for Indian manufacturers and soon grew to be one of the largest automobile distribution houses in India. Group companies included dealerships from Tata trucks (then

known as TELCO), Ambassador cars from Hindustan Motors and Mahindra Jeep. The legacy of Seth Motilal Sanghi was carried forward by his eldest son, Narendra Sanghi, while the automobile business was further expanded and strengthened by Mahendra Sanghi, Seth Motilal Sanghiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youngest son who moved to Mumbai in 1962. With the onset of the 1980s, the Sanghi family had separated and various branches operating in various cities had become independent franchises. Mahendra Sanghi was the first dealer to be appointed by Maruti-Suzuki (then known as Maruti Udyog Ltd) in Mumbai in 1983. The dealership named Vitesse, became synonymous with Maruti cars in the city. Vitesse sold over 200,000 vehicles and operated a chain of showrooms and automobile service centers in Mumbai. In 1986, the group ran the first pilot programme for providing car loans in India on behalf of Citibank. The program was a runaway success and resulted in the mushrooming of automobile finance programs. In 1999, the group created the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first automobile web portal, Indiacar.com. In the year 2002, the group was handed the dealership for cars from Mercedes-Benz in Mumbai, Nagpur and Indore until 2009. Having

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Founder: Motilal Sanghi Presently Managed by: Mahendra Sanghi Brands managed: Tata Motors, Hindustan Motors, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Mercedes-Benz

MARIKAR GROUP

Established in: 1910 | Location: Thiruvananthapuram

he house of Marikar owes its origin to its illustrious founder, the Late Mr H.O.L. Marikar who founded the company in 1910. A man with great vision, he was not only an enterprising entrepreneur but also a social reformer and educationist. Right from inception, Marikar & Co Ltd dealt in automobile spare parts and accessories. It took up the franchise for International Trucks in 1930 and for Ford cars and trucks in the year 1934. In the year 1940, Marikar (Motors) Limited was formed as a private limited company, taking over the automobile business of Marikar & Co Ltd, with its head office at Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of the erstwhile State of Travancore. The company, thereafter, initiated a programme of expansion and set up a network of branches. Marikar (Motors) Limited started the import and sale of Royal Enfield motorcycles in 1940, and was appointed as a dealer for the state of Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu when Royal Enfield set up its plant in Chennai in the late 50s. After the demise of H.O.L. Marikar in 1944, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affairs were initially managed by his second son Hassan Marikar and later by his third son Habeeb Marikar. Together, the

duo steered the company to greater heights. In 1945, Marikar (Motors) Ltd was appointed as one of the first three dealers for Hindustan Motors Limited in the country and since then, has consistently won the Best Dealer award. Over the years, the group has also handled the dealerships for vehicles such as Escorts, Ford and Holland Tractors, API, KAL and Jaya three wheelers, Hero Puch Scooterettes, Lambretta and LML Vespa Scooters, Porsche, Mitsubishi and Reva Cars, Premier Light Commercial Vehicles and Isuzu Heavy Commercial Vehicles. In 2001, the franchise for Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Limited was obtained. The dealership commenced operations in Thiruvananthapuram. In 2007, the dealership extended operations to Kanya Kumari in Tamil Nadu. The group also took up the franchise for Skoda cars in Kerala in 2002, Nissan Cars in Trivandrum in 2011, Vespa (Piaggio) Scooters in Ernakulam and Trichur in 2012, Fiat Cars in Kottayam in 2013 and has now been appointed as a dealer for Tata Cars in Cochin. The Marikar Group is now headed by managing director, Zulfiquar Marikar. The dealership consists of a team of committed officers and staff, which is a blend of vast

Years

Founder: Late Mr H O L Marikar Presently Managed by: Zulfiquar Marikar Brands managed: Ford, Royal Enfield, Hindustan Motors, Escorts, API, KAL, Jaya, Hero, Lambretta, Vespa, Porsche, Mitsubishi, Reva, PAL, Isuzu, Honda Motorcycles, Fiat, Skoda, Tata Motors

METRO MOTORS

Established in: 1936 | Location: Ambala

he founder of Motors, HK Das, a law graduate who also obtained a degree in English, never pursued either. Instead his passion for automobiles led to the establishment of the automobile company in 1936 at Ambala. Metro Motors was a dealer for General Motors, selling the company’s Chevrolet cars and trucks in northern India. In 1950, General Motors decided to wind up its operations in Sewri, Bombay (now Mumbai) where the firm had an assembly plant, citing the reason that there wasn’t enough business in India. HK Das then took up the dealership for Hindustan Motors, selling the Morris Oxford and later, the Hindustan Land Master car. This relationship did not last very long and then the company took up the dealership for Fiat cars. It was in the year 1954, when the Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO) was established in Jamshedpur. In 1958, HK Das shut the Fiat dealership and set up a dealership for TELCO that was manufacturing diesel commercial vehicles in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz under the brand Tata Mercedes-Benz. Since then, Metro Motors has maintained the relationship which now is almost 58-years old.

In the year 1971, a member from the second generation of the family, YP Das joined the family business. He is an ex-Merchant Navy officer and a member of the Rotary Club in Ambala. He is also a social worker and has served as a director on the board of Rotary International. He is still carrying forward the legacy of the family business with his vast experience of over 44 years in the automobile business. In 1998, Manav Das, a third generation family member, joined the family business. He graduated in commerce from the Delhi University and leads the eight decade old family business as the CEO of the company. He has represented India in several Golf tournaments in the world including the Asian Games in Busan, South Korea and has also been ranked as India’s number 1 Amateur Golfer. In 1998, the company opened a dealership for Tata Motors’ passenger cars. In a case of history repeating itself, Metro Motors opened a Fiat dealership in 2013. Both the dealerships are still operational and Metro Motors has an annual turnover of over Rs 250 crore and has 550 employees on its payroll. There are branches in Mohra, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Panipat, Jagadhri and Yamuna Nagar.

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Founder: Late H K Das Presently Managed by: Manav Das Brands managed: General Motors, Hindustan Motors, Tata Motors, Fiat

MITHILA MOTORS

Established in: 1958 | Location: Jamshedpur

ithila Motors Private Limited was established in the year 1958. Registered under the Companies Act, the dealership is currently the authorised dealer for commercial vehicles from Tata Motors, in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. The company began operations as a dealer for Morris and later as a dealer for the Mico Bosch Group in the state of Bihar. The firm, in the same year, also forayed into the commercial vehicles sector with the establishment of its Telco (now Tata Motors) dealership. In the year 1984, Mithila Motors joined hands with Maruti Suzuki and earned the distinction of being one of the first 10 dealers for the company in India. Consequently, Mithila Motors became the first phase dealers for Telco (Tata Motors) and Maruti Suzuki. Upon the separation of Bihar and Jharkhand, the Maruti dealership at Patna has, however, been ceded since Jan 2003. The group believes in the philosophy of market reach and has hence set up customer contact points (CCPs) across its operational territory. Five such CCPs are currently present in Ranchi, Chaibasa, Chandil, Mango and Bistupur. Mithila Motors Private Limited, at present,

has over 400 employees across its entire range of operations. The group keeps the staff relevant by conducting special training programmes from time to time for sales, purchase, service and spare parts in order to attain the maximum level of efficiency in the organisation. The group has also inducted the use of information technology to ease business processes as well as improve customer relationship. The group was the first dealership in Jharkhand to have launched an IT based customer relationship management (CRM) system for its Tata vehicles customers. Mithila Motors has garnered numerous accolades and awards through the years, notably, the Tata Business Excellence Model for the highest spare parts sale in Jharkhand, Automotive Dealership Excellence Award (ADEA) by FADA, Auto Monitor and Arval (BNP Paribas) Award for Corporate Social Responsibility for 2009, Best Dealership for LCV (East) 2010-2011 and many more. The group sells the entire range of Tataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commercial Vehicles, from LCVs such as the Ace to the Prima world trucks. With its expertise and dedication to the business, Mithila Motors Private Limited has established itself as one of Tata Motorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; important dealers.

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Founder: Late Bipin B Parikh Presently Managed by: Diloo B Parikh Brands managed: Tata Motors

NARAIN AUTOMOBILES Established in: 1935 | Location: Lucknow

arain Automobiles is a fourth generation automobile dealership that was established by the Late Shri Krishna Narain. After moving from Faizabad to Lucknow in the year 1934, he established M/s United Provinces Motor Co, a franchise for General Motors, in 1935. The dealership offered products from the stables of Buick, Lasalle, Cadillac, Pontiac and Chevrolet, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. United Provinces Motor Company, in 1937, was appointed as the dealer for the Austin Motor Car Company from UK. In those days, these vehicles were imported from the USA and UK either via the CBU route or the CKD route wherein they were assembled in Mumbai. After assembly, they were driven to the respective dealerships. In the year 1942, United Provinces Motor Company got the dealership for the Italian carmaker, Fiat and Studebaker, another automobile brand from America. In the year 1943, the founder when travelling by ship from New York to India, had a chance meeting with the Late JC Mahindra. This exchange spawned a new venture for the company. Upon learning that Mr Mahindra had closed the deal with Kaiser Inc for manufacturing the Jeep in India, Shri Krishna Narain presented his expertise and experience

of running dealerships for various companies. This led to Mr Mahindra promptly offering the dealership for Mahindraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jeep to the United Provinces Motor Company in Uttar Pradesh. Proud to sell an Indian made car in India, Shri Narain opened the dealership under the name, Narain Automobiles, which was run by his three son, the Late Shri Anand Narain, the Late Shri Gopal Narain and Shri Vinod Narain. In the year 1962, Shri Krishna Narain stumbled upon the idea of manufacturing small and cheap cars for the Indian market, and chose Daf of Holland as the brand to start with. After importing a few cars, he took a car and showed it to the then Prime Minister, the Late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who was very impressed with the prospect. However, it did not culminate into a solid proposition as Sanjay Gandhi had already submitted his proposal to manufacture Maruti cars in India. Thereafter, in the year 1969, the company was offered the dealership for M/s Premier Automobiles Limited of Mumbai, to sell Premier cars, which were produced in collaboration with Fiat, Italy. The dealership operated under the name of Raj Motors until Premier Automobiles ceased operations in 1997. The firm was handed the dealership for Mahindra Ford in 1998. At present, Rajeev

Years

Founder: Late Sri Krishna Narain Presently Managed by: Rajeev Narain, Mudit Narain. Raghav Narain Brands managed: General Motors, Austin Motor, FIAT, Mahnidra & Mahindra

NARCINVA DAMODAR NAIK Established in: 1896 | Location: Fatorda

/s Narcinva Damodar Naik is one of the oldest and most prestigious business houses in Goa. Founded by its namesake, Narcinva Damodar Naik, in Fatorda, the firm was into major international trade of food grains, pulses, etc and was registered in 1896. In the year 1953, the firm was appointed as a general agent for Daimler Benz of Germany. It was the first dealership to introduce the concept of service and warranty, with its own servicing and repairs workshop, meeting the exacting standards laid out by Mercedes-Benz. The dealership always had a far sighted customer-centric approach towards sales and after-sales services. Even as early as the 1970s, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketing strategy had been packaged to suit customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial needs, with the help of its own finance arm. For aftersales services, the firm established a number of retail spares outlets all over Goa to ensure easy and prompt availability of genuine parts. The firm has also set-up separate service and repair workshops in several places for different kinds of vehicles. The group has always had an application engineering division with its own body building facility offering fully-built vehicles to its customers, all under one roof.

Over the decades, the product line has grown from dumpers to garbage compactors, ambulances, buses, cranes and special purpose vehicles based on customer requirements. The car business has a separate state-of-art sales and service setup and was started even before Tata Motors mandated it. Today the group has expanded into the real estate, boutique hotel, organic spice, fruit and vegetable farming, travel agency and the transportation segment. The dealership is currently managed by Narcinva Naik (Baba). The group moves towards the third century of its existence with the same confidence, adherence to values and enthusiasm as that of the men of vision who started the business.

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Founder: Narcinva Damodar Naik Presently Managed by: Narcinva Naik (Baba) Brands managed: Diamler Benz, Tata Motors

PANDIT AUTOMOTIVE Established in: 1956 | Location: Pune

he founder of Pandit Automotive, the Late Mr RH Pandit started out with a small car repairing garage in 1940 at Malabar Hill, Mumbai under the name Malabar Motors. Thereafter, with newer opportunities opening up in Pune, a tractor spares parts shop for Caterpillar and Larsen & Toubro tractors was started in 1952 and named Ram Agencies. In 1956, the founder sensed an opportunity to expand the business and replied to an advertisement in a newspaper which declared the requirement of a sub dealer for Tata-Mercedes trucks in the Pune region. The application was accepted resulting in Pandit Automotive being named as the sub dealer for Dadaji Dhakjee & Co of Mumbai. In 1961, Pandit Automotive graduated to become a full-fledged dealer for TELCO in Pune. In the late 60s and early 70s, the dealership expanded to the Satara and Sangli regions of Maharashtra. The impeccable service levels given to truck owners in those days attracted people from far flung places of Maharashtra to Pandit Auto for the buying and servicing of Tata Trucks. As a direct result, the dealership managed to create a brand image that symbolised trust, commitment to customers and highly efficient service levels.

Even JRD Tata praised the commitment and social outlook that the dealership exhibited. In the 90s, Tata Motors launched a slew of new products such as the Sumo, Safari and its first small car, the Indica. Pandit Automotive quickly adapted itself in this new line of business and grew to become the largest dealer for Tata Motors in India with sales exceeding 25,000 vehicles per year and annual service volumes of 1.25 lakh vehicles. Pandit Automotive is spread across 21 locations in four districts of Maharashtra with a total work force of 1,200 employees. In addition, Pandit Automotive is also an official dealer for Fiat India. Pandit Automotive enjoys tremendous goodwill and brand recognition due to the adoption of ethical and sincere business practices as well as the exemplary service that is provided with utmost commitment to customer satisfaction.

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Founder: Late R H Pandit Presently Managed by: V S Gokhale Brands managed: TATA Motors, FIAT-Chrysler

PATNI AUTOMOBILES

Established in: 1962 | Location: Nagpur

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atni Automobiles has been operating as one of the oldest authorised dealers for M/s Bajaj Auto Ltd, Pune for its entire product range since 1969 under the name, M/s Patni Automobiles. Founded by the Late Shri Bansilalji Patni in the year 1962, the company was set up in Nagpur. Patni Automobiles is a well known and highly reputed name that needs no introduction in central India. Its eminence symbolises the keen spirit of entrepreneurship and growth exhibited by its promoters whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made it the largest dealer of Bajaj twowheelers and three-wheelers. The groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success is owed to its prompt and excellent after sales service to an increasingly large number of customers by fully trained, competent personnel. This, along with adequate genuine spares and sales promotion activities in line with progressive business practices is the USP of the firm. At present, Patni Automoblies is managed by Shri Naresh Patni and Shri Umesh Patni.

Founder: Late Shri Bansilalji Patni Presently Managed by: Naresh Patni, Umesh Patni Brands managed: Bajaj Auto

PROVINCIAL AUTOMOBILES Established in: 1930 | Location: Nagpur

stablished in 1930 by Purushottam B Kale, an electrical and mechanical engineer from Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore, Provincials started as a dealer for the Ford Motor Company and Fordson Tractors. The dealership handled operations for the entire region across the Central Provinces and Berar, with branches in Jabalpur, Itarsi, Akola and Amravati. Purushottam B Kale gained valuable experience at TISCO, Jamshedpur. In 1952, after the discontinuation of import of motors vehicles by the Government of India, Provincial Autoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service facility continued to cater to its customer base and its workshop was considered one of the best facilities in central India. In the year 1954, Provincial Automobiles was appointed as the dealer for Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. In the last 85 years, Provincial Automobiles has continued the business with the fourth generation of the family looking after its affairs now. As of today, it continues to be amongst the leading dealers for Mahindra & Mahindraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal vehicles, small commercial vehicles, farm equipment, construction equipment and certified used cars segment. The dealer also represents the entire range of Daimler India Commercial Vehicle under

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the brand name, Bharat Benz Trucks in the Vidarbha, Marathwada and Khandesh regions in Maharashtra. With showrooms and workshops in Nagpur and other major cities of Maharashra and a loyal customer base, Provincial Automobiles continues to be a part of the lives of generations of automobile customers in central India. With the motto of trust, honesty and care for all its stakeholders, Provincial Automobiles continues the tradition of customer satisfaction that was started by its founder.

Founder: Late Purushottam B Kale Presently Managed by: XXXXXXXXXX Brands managed: Ford Motor Co, Mahindra & Mahindra, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles

RAJESH MOTORS

Established in: 1956 | Location: Maharashtra

he foundation for Rajesh Motors Group was laid by the Late Shri RV Shah in the year 1961. Because of a lack of a formal education, he began his career as a truck driver. He then started his transport company and subsequently entered into the automobile dealership sector as a sub-dealer for Ashok Leyland products in the Kolhapur, Sangli and Satara districts of Maharashtra. The first company he started in May, 1961 was christened Nav Maharashtra Automobile, named to commemorate the foundation day of Maharashtra, after its separation from Gujarat. The first Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the Late Shri YB Chavan, inaugurated the company. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellent performance record earned Rajesh Motors Group a dealership contract with Ashok Leyland for the entire state of Rajasthan in November, 1968. With the focus on customers, financer relations and a dedicated, devoted team that had complete faith in its leader, the firm branched into the automobiles and earthmoving industry as a successful dealer. At present, the group handles dealerships for Ashok Leylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HCVs, MCVs and Ashok Leyland Nissan LCVs. Additionally, the firm also handles dealerships for Volkswagen, General Motors passenger cars and earth-

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moving equipment from JCB India Limited. The Rajesh Motors Group is presently handled by KH Shah who is designated as the chairman of the group. With employee strength of 2000, the group has 10 branches and 25 outlets across the state of Rajasthan. The present turnover of the group is Rs 2,000 crore. With a successful 54 years in the automobile and earth-moving equipment dealership business, the group has also diversified into other activities such as finance, body-building, construction and mining.

Founder: Late Shri R.V. Shah Presently Managed by: K H Shah , C H Shah, Rahul Shah, Sharvik Shah, Siddharth Shah Brands managed: Ashok Leyland, General Motors, Volkswagen, JCB India

RME WORKS

Established in: 1930 | Location: Chhattisgarh

/s Raipur Motor Engineering Works (popularly known as RME Works) was established in the year 1930 by the Late Shri Narayan Bhai Pithalia. It was Chhattisgarhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first automobile workshop with all kinds of work done under one roof - from overhauling of the engine, complete mechanical and electrical jobs, hydraulic lift service to painting, denting, electric welding, gas welding, body work, wood work, upholstery and more. In the year 1937, M/s RME Works obtained the dealership for Ford Motor Company which continued till 1951 when Ford shut shop in India. From 1956 to 1958, RME took the sub-dealership for Fiat and Dodge vehicles. In the year 1957, the firm added the dealership for tractors by Massey-Harris Ferguson India Ltd, Bangalore. The dedicated after sales service set the standard for the upcoming workshop garages and the sales continued smoothly. In 1968, the company attached the dealership of Standard Vehicles to its franchise bringing vehicles such as the Gazel, Herald, Standard LCVs and the Prestigious Standard 2000 to the Chhattisgarh market. On July 7, 1989 M/s RME Works was appointed the dealer for Swaraj Mazda Vehicles. The dealership promoted the sales of these vehicles in the Chhattisgarh region with its

effective after sales service and spare parts facility. Swaraj Mazda Vehicles were the only LCVs that competed with the four other LCVs from Japan available in the region. The firm has been declared the number one dealer in the entire western zone including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa since the year 1996. For the last two years, RME Works is ranked number one in terms of truck sales in India as well. The automobile workshop established by the Late Shri Narayan Bhai Pithalia in 1930 has expanded many folds and at present, has got branches at 11 locations in the state of Chhattisgarh with 3S facilities for its valuable customers. The second generation lead by Kishore Chandra Pithalia and Kailash Chandra Pithalia had the honour of getting trained at the Massey Ferguson plant at Coventry, London in 1968. Their contribution to establish and further strengthen the roots of RME Works would always be cherished. The third generation, lead by Jayesh Pithalia, Hitesh Pithalia, Bhupesh Pithalia and Bharat Pithalia has added many more feathers to the cap by taking the group turnover to more than Rs 100 crore in the year 2013-14. RME Works, Raipur has now become a brand in the state of Chhattisgarh.

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Founder: Late Shri Narayan Bhai Pithalia Presently Managed by: Jayesh Pithalia, Hitesh Pithalia, Bhupesh Pithalia, Bharat Pithalia Brands managed: Ford, Dodge, Massey-Harris Ferguson India, Standard Motors, Swaraj Mazda Vehicles

SANGHI BROTHERS

Established in: 1932 | Location: Indore

anghi Brothers (Indore) Private Limited has stroked a brush of success on the business canvas of Madhya Pradesh. The company had a humble beginning in the year 1932, under the valuable guidance of the late Shri Sohanlal G Sanghi, the founder and chairman-managing director. The company inherited a rich tradition of automobile dealing and engineering in central India as authorised dealers for General Motors and Austin Cars. It was also the largest importer of luxury cars of that era, as per the requirements of the erstwhile rulers of preindependent India. Since 1984, the management of the company was passed into the hands of Sharad Sanghi, the present chairman and managing director who has imbibed from his eminent father, the business qualities and work philosophy that have led to a steady growth with deep impressions of the traditions started by the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founder. The company currently operates in 52 districts of Madhya Pradesh and over the last seven decades, the company has grown into a large automobile trading house with diversified interests. Sanghi Motors Indore is now the dealer for Tata Motors Limited (commercial vehicles and passenger cars), Hyundai Motor India Limited

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and Jaguar Land Rover.

Founder: Late Shri. Sohanlal Sanghi Presently Managed by: Sharad Sanghi Brands managed: Tata Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Hyundai Motor

SANGHI MOTORS

Established in: 1932 | Location: Delhi

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Founder: Late Shri. Sohanlal Sanghi Presently Managed by: XXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX Brands managed: XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX

UNITED MOTORS OF RAJASTHAN Established in: XXXX | Location: Jodhpur

riginating from the princely town of Jodhpur, the capital of Marwar, the Sanghi family had a very humble beginning. A young gentleman, Motilal Sanghi, started a general merchandise shop after taking a loan of five thousand rupees and soon became the largest retailer in the State of Jodhpur. Passionate for cars, he decided to step into a territory, no one else in India had dreamt of, and laid the foundations for one of the first and largest automobile dealership empire in the sub-continent. During the British days in India, the only buyers of cars were the Maharajas and the Princes of the Royal States. Motilal not only established strong personal relations with these potential buyers, but also obtained dealerships from General Motors, USA and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, England. He also began to sell a new car produced by Sir Herbert Austin in England called the Austin Seven. By the 1940â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Seth Motilal Sanghi, as he had come to be known by then, had established a vast network for the sales, service and spare parts of cars. His network was spread over Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, Kota, Ajmer, Bikaner, Mt. Abu, Indore and Delhi. Legend has it that once Seth Motilal Sanghi offered seven cars to the His Highness of Bikaner who seemingly wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too keen

on buying them. When the king refused to accept the cars, Seth Motilalji refused to take themback and said that he had only one option - to burn the cars, as they were meant for his highness and hence unusable for his subjects. As the bemused Highness watched on, one car was set ablaze. Touched by the gesture, he immediately stopped Seth Sanghi and paid for all seven cars. The sources of this tale are questionable, but its spirit has lived on. He was joined by his brothers in the business of automobiles, and today the Sanghi brand is a resounding name in the automobile industry. Evolving from the early General Motors to Mercedes, from Hindustan Motors to Maruti, today, Sanghis have their presence in Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh through brands like Maruti, Tata, Fiat, Volkswagen, BMW, Mahindra, JCB, Hindustan Motors, Mercedes and many more. Seth Motilal Sanghi also diversified into the then nascent cinema business and profitably operated over ten movie theatres in North India. The legacy of Seth Motilal Sanghi was nurtured by his eldest son, Narendra Kumar Sanghi, who remained an active member of the Indian Parliament for over sixteen years. Some of the oldest businesses like cinemas and petrol pumps are still run by the family in

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Founder: Seth Motilalji Sanghi Presently Managed by: Narendra Kumar Sanghi Brands managed: Maruti, Tata, Fiat, Volkswagen, BMW, Mahindra, JCB, Hindustan Motors, Mercedes

VST MOTORS

Established in: 1949 | Location: Chennai

ST Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideals of trust and innovation have lit the way for the group for the last 100 years. From its simple beginnings of supplying kerosene in the Bangalore Cantonment area in 1911, the VST Group has expanded into seven sectors, from automobile dealerships to manufacturing. Today, it is a Rs 3,000 crore group serving more than 5,000 customers every day. The group was founded by VS Thiruvengadaswamy Mudaliar. The VST group started its business as a dealer for Austin and Studebaker cars in Bangalore and Chennai in the year 1949. It then took up the dealership for vehicles by Mahindra & Mahindra in 1952. It entered the commercial vehicle sphere in the year 1954 when it began dealing in Tata Motorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products. The year 1996 , the VST added dealerships for Ford cars in India. This was also the year when VST opened its first two-wheeler dealership, selling Bajaj motorcycles. This was followed by the opening of another twowheeler dealership, Honda motorcycles in 2001. In the year 2009 and 2011 the group started dealerships for cars by Volkswagen and Jaguar Land Rover, respectively. The expertise that the group gathered over the years was pivotal in its belief that it could

provide a world class dealership experience to customers. The group added a dealership for Mercedes-Benz cars in 2014 and will now open a dealership for Ducati Motorcycles in 2015. The VST Group is active in seven diverse sectors - petroleum retail, construction, automobile dealerships, auto parts distribution, finance, manufacturing and exports. Each of the businesses is run as an independent franchise and headed by a managing partner. The fourth generation of the VST family is now at the helm of the business enterprise. The VST group is currently managed by Arun V Surendra. By combining the numerous automobile dealerships with a well run NBFC (Gove Investment and Finance Ltd), along with automobile parts and lubricant distribution business (VST Auto Parts Pvt Ltd), the VST Group is well positioned to further grow its interests in the automotive industry and serve its customers in South India in the decades to come.

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Founder: V S Thiruvengadaswamy Mudaliar Presently Managed by: Arun V. Surendra Brands managed: Austin, Studebaker, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors, Ford, Bajaj motorcycles, Honda motorcycles, Volkswagen, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes Benz, Ducati Motorcycles

WESTERN INDIAN STATES MOTORS Established in: 1929 | Location:Jaipur

orn to a modest family in Jodhpur, Chunni Lal Sanghi left home and hearth in a bid to create a legacy and a name. With automobiles as his passion and ambition in his gut, he started his career with Western Indian States Motors (WISM). His hard work over the next decade bestowed him with the wherewithal to buy the company from the State in 1929. Chunni Lal Sanghi then brought vehicles from the stables of Buick, Chrysler, Chevrolet and General Motors to Jaipur. That’s how the tradition of bringing in luxurious brands to Rajasthan was started and it has now become a Sanghi family custom. Imports were banned post independence, which threatened the existence of Western Indian States Motors. Chunni Lal Sanghi, always an optimist and ever the visionary, did not lose hope and became one of the pioneer dealers for Hindustan Motors in Jaipur. In 1968, Chunni Lal Sanghi handed over the reins of the dealership to his sons, M L Sanghi and Prem Sanghi. The year 1997 saw the group evolve into two independent groups. Prem Sanghi led his part of the legacy from the front, supported by his sons Puneet and Ambrish. The dynamic trio started building the group, brick by brick. The

year 1998 saw the inclusion of the Fiat brand in the Sanghi group. General Motors and Bajaj were also added to the group’s fold. In 2006, the group also re-aligned its portfolio and forayed into real estate. The Western Indian States Motors brought Volkswagen to Rajasthan in 2008. The launch was an interesting one as the dealership had to introduce the German make right from scratch – starting with teaching prospective customers to pronounce the Deutsch brand name correctly. Seven years on, Volkswagen is now a household name and frequently purchased in Rajasthan, reflecting the dealership’s hold on the market. In 2009, the Sanghi group brought BMW to Rajasthan. The Sanghis were steadfast in their belief that Rajasthan was ready for opulence and the success of BMW validates that vision. Many premium cars soon followed suit. The success of the brands in the Sanghi stable can be attributed purely to hard work, customer service orientation and integrity. Over the years, the company has invested a lot into building a strong, motivated staff which has been instrumental in delighting WISM’s customers. As of today both the dealerships are prospering and have won numerous awards

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Founder: Shri Chunni Lal Sanghi Presently Managed by: Prem Sanghi, Puneet Sanghi, Ambrish Sanghi Brands managed: Buick, Chrysler, General Motors, FIAT, Bajaj

GIANTS 72

Shaping a way forward is very often the work of men with a vision. The Indian automotive industry has over the last century seen several such men who gave shape to an industry that today is the fourth largest in the world. Its not been an easy journey but focus, determination, passion and an intimate knowledge of what will race ahead and what will stay on the brakes are the hallmarks of these stalwarts. Each of the men in the following pages then are giants, giants who moved mountains for us to drive forward!

Photo Courtesy: Forbes India

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Did You Know? Anand Mahindra is a movie buff. He even studied filmmaking at Harvard.

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Anand Mahindra Chairman & Managing Director, Mahindra Group Born: May 1, 1955, Mumbai, India

Affectionately known and addressed by his first name by everyone in the company and outside, Anand Mahindra has been at the helm of the Mahindra group since 2012. Under his leadership the Mahindra Group has now established itself not only as a world class automotive manufacturer but also one of the most diversified business houses in India. Today, the Mahindra groups interests are spread across engineering, metals, finance, information technology, retail, education, hospitality, real estate and of course automotive businesses. Anand is well known for his very non-traditional approach to business, his out-of-the-box thinking and a constant flow of ideas is a source of energy for his team. A deep understanding of international demands and a keen eye for developing trends has seen him shape his companies into global powerhouses. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how Mahindra picked up the Reva Car Company and Ssangyong, especially since both manufacturers were developing products that would become highly critical and valuable in global

markets. He alsso saw the huge potential that Mahindra could play in the two-wheeler market and kickstarted Mahindra Two Wheelers in 2008 to manufacture scooters and motorcycles. His management style is to empower people to the extent that he creates business owners out of managers. Anand Mahindra has very strong connect with his dealers. On one occasion, a dealer was along with his family was waiting for his flight at an airport. A tap on his shoulders drew his attention to the person tapping; Anand Mahindra himself. Anand was part of a high level delegation accompanying the prime minister alongside co-delegates like Anil Ambani, Adi Godrej etc. Yet he recognised and stopped by to say â&#x20AC;&#x2122;helloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to a dealer. This dealer recounts the incident as an incentive valued in crores. Anand is a passionate athlete and has participated in several marathons. He also plays tennis ardently and loves blues music, which of course led to the very popular Mahindra Blues Festival.

Photo Courtesy: Forbes India

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Did You Know? Brij Mohan Lall Munjal is most comfortable converse in Hindi and Punjabi. He feels he is speaking his heart when speaking in either of the two languages. 76

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Brij Mohanlal Munjal Founder & Chairman, Hero Motocorp Born: 1923, Kamalia, Pakistan

Born in the erstwhile Indian state of West Punjab (now in Pakistan), Brijmohan Lall Munjal served in the army (ordnance factory) before setting off on an entrepreneurial journey. After moving his base to Ludhiana, Birjmohan Lall Munjal started a business supplying components to cycle manufacturers. From selling cycle parts to Hero Cycles to Hero Majestic Moped under the Majestic Auto brand to Hero Honda to Hero, Brijmohan Lall Munjal turned every adversity into an opportunity and emerged triumphant. Fondly referred to as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Babujiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Brijmohan Lall Munjal has kept putting the company and its employees before all else. His only

claim is that he works for the entire extended family and not for his personal earnings. Brijmohan Lal Munjal prioritized the human relation chain over all else, building strong relationships with his friends, associates, staffers and suppliers. Even today he knows all his dealers personally and this is no small number. When he started Hero Honda and was looking at dealer expansion, Brijmohan even called his cycle dealers and offered them a motorcycle dealership. His dealers call him a large hearted and down-to-earth man. He always made a point to visit dealerships and interact with customers while on tour. He has always been by the side of the dealers during tough times.

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Did You Know? Hindmotor is a small town near Kolkata which houses the HM plant, has actually taken its name after the name of the company (Hindustan Motors). 78

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B M Birla Founder, Hindustan Motors Born: November 19, 1905, Pilani, Rajasthan, India

B. M. Birla spent his childhood between Pilani (Rajasthan) and Bombay. In the year 1918 BM moved to Calcutta to join his family business. Calcutta remained his headquarter from that year on. His first induction into industry was in cotton textiles and jute and later in sugar, paper and insurance. BMs long cherished desire was to manufacture automobiles. He was one of the pioneers of the Indian automobile industry. BM shared the then prime minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream of modernizing the Indian economy through setting up of large factories and projects. A small beginning was made in 1942 at Port Okha in the old Kathiawar State. The automobile business moved to West Bengal near Calcutta around 1950.

Hindustan Motors made its beginning and remained the largest automobile manufacturer in the country until the nineties. B M Birla was an extremely disciplined person. He disliked people who did not respect time. Although a hardcore businessman, B M Birla was also actively involved in philanthropy. He supported the construction of many hospitals and libraries which are serving our society even today. He chose his people carefully and then trusted them and empowered them fully. He relied on his deputies to liaison with the dealers and respected their words.

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Did You Know? H P Nanda also ran a bus service called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Nanda Bus Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; before he got into manufacturing. 80

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H. P. Nanda Chairman Emeritus, Escorts Group Born: January 9, 1917, Jammu, India

Born in 1917 in Jammu, Hari Parshad Nanda was an entrepreneur at heart. He chose to embark on an independent path rather than resting on the accolades earned by their family business. H P Nanda and his brother Yudi Nanda were the founders of the company that would go on to create history in the agriculture and machines business. With their roots in Lahore, the two brothers began a company called Escorts Agents Limited. During those initial years H P Nanda realised the untapped potential to be derived from Indian villages. In 1948 he setup a company called Escorts (Agriculture and Machines) Ltd. Before starting their own manufacturing venture, the Nandas were dealers for Massey Ferguson a leading tractor brand. In the late fifties, Escorts joined hands with Ursus from Poland to make

tractors in India. Decades later the foray in the 2-wheeler segment happened but it is the tractor and agricultural businesses that have defined H P Nanda and his company. H P Nanda had a dream of becoming Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest manufacturer of agricultural equipment and at one point he did achieve this. A very hardworking and passionate employee himself, H P Nanda would start his day at 8.00 am and continue until late in the evening. In his unique networking style, he never let go of his old employees in the bus service or from the erstwhile dealership. Each person from their former employment was redeployed in the new venture. Employees were family for H P Nanda and he kept in touch with each dealer of Escorts group personally.

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Did You Know? Mr. Lalchand Doshi loved mutter from Jaipur and would get them delivered to Bombay regularly. Rice was one of his favorite foods. 82

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Lalchand Hirachand Doshi Chairman & Managing Director, Premier Group Born: October 24, 1904, Solapur, India

Born on October 24th 1904 in Solapur, Maharashtra to the founder of the Premier Group, Hirachand Doshi, Lalchand Hirachand Doshi played a pivotal role in driving Premier Automobiles Limited (PAL) for over two decades since 1948. A graduate of arts from Deccan College, Pune, Mr. Doshi was a versatile personality. Besides being an accomplished businessman, he enjoyed playing cricket, golf and badminton. He was also an enthusiastic wordsmith and a licensed pilot, a skill most leading industrialists of the day indulged in developing. Lalchand Doshi also served as a member of the ‘Rajya Sabha’ post Independence. He may have been fondly referred to as ‘Sethji’ by his colleagues and employees but Lalchand Doshi was a complete ‘Gandhian’. Dressed impeccably in Khadi Lalchand Doshi practiced simple living

& high thinking intensely. His persona made him very approachable and the entire staff of PAL looked upon him for all kinds of solutions. One of the earliest practitioners of an open door policy, his only grouse was against those who did not attend to customers on time. Sethji was an out-and-out peoples’ person. He knew almost every employee, dealer and vendor personally, even their families. Thanks to his Gandhian principles and a a deep affection for his fellow employees Lalchand Doshi would prefer to stay in his employees houses rather than hotels whenever he went visiting dealerships. He also enjoyed very good relationship with other automobile manufacturers particularly, the TVS group.

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Did You Know? N K Firodia is credited with coining the term ‘Auto Rickshaw’.

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Navalmal Kundanmal Firodiya Founder, Force Motors & Co-Founder, Bajaj Auto Born: 1911

N K Firodia was one of the leaders of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial movement post independence. Once India gained independence he quickly realised that economic growth could only come by catching up to the world in all spheres, the growth of Indian industry being one of the most important. N K Firodia, along with his brother Hastimal Firodia, formed several ventures that are prominent even today on the industrial map of India. N K Firodia was repited to be a visionary with a sharp acumen for business, tremendous consumer insights and an indepth knowledge of behavioral trends even in the sixties and the seventies. He believed in making quick decisions and always backed them with conviction. It was this acumen that guided him to co-found Bajaj Auto Ltd. (now run by Mr. Rahul Bajaj) and Bajaj Tempo Ltd. (now run by Mr. Abhay Firodia) along with K N Bajaj. N K Firodia also established Kinetic Engineering, Kinetic Honda, ZF Steering Gears & Jai Hind Industries. While being a tough task-master, Mr. N K Firodia delegated

authority and responsibility in equal measure to his team. He always kept integrity at the top of his priority list when he looked for traits in people. He formed a large network of family, friends, associates and acquaintances by offering them opportunities like dealerships, component manufacturing, supply services etc. This, was a unique method of sharing wealth with oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social ecosystem back then He successfully forged partnerships with various multinationals viz. Piaggio (Vespa), Daimler Benz, Honda, ZF etc., giving global competitors an early taste of the potential India held. His strong nationalist approached was applauded by all his partners. He understood and practiced the importance of offering technologically superior products and the real meaning of lean manufacturing in the early days of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial revolution. Born in 1911, N K Firodia was a true Gandhian. A man of few words, he observed Maun Vrat for one day every week. His simplicity and humility made him a natural leader.

Photo Courtesy: Forbes India

Did You Know? He loves pista barfi. During his college days at St Stephenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Rahul Bajaj would borrow a Bajaj Scooter from an associate against his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishes for joyrides. 86

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Rahul Bajaj Chairman, Bajaj Group Born: June 10, 1938, Bengal Presidency, Presidencies of British India

Known for his immaculate dressing, known to be outspoken & fearless, known for his sharp business acumen and known for his multi-faceted personality -Rahul Kamalnayan Bajaj is a stalwart of the Indian automotive industry with few to match his skills. An alumnus of Harvard and St Stephen’s, Rahul Bajaj took over Bajaj Auto in 1965 and made it one of the largest 2-wheeler empires in the world. Rahul Bajaj has a very unique ability to think on his feet and comprehends any situation quickly. Outspoken yet affable, Rahul Bajaj is feared yet popular amongst the dealers as well as staffers. Rahul Bajaj has always been a stickler for a no-nonsense approach. Dedicating his life to his business Rahul Bajaj, who studied in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Boston, decided to settle down in Akurdi, the site of Bajaj Auto’s oldest plant near Pune and he continues to live there to date.

Rahul Bajaj has always shared a very strong bond with the entire dealer network of Bajaj Auto. On one occasion, a dealer invited him for the anniversary of his dealership; he travelled all the way in his personal aircraft to spend a whole day at the dealership mingling freely with the staffers and customers who had gathered there. Rahul Bajaj has firmly believed “Take care of the customer. If you cheat him, give him bad quality, charge him more than you should, he will not buy and you are in trouble. This is not a charity mindset. It is an enlightened, ‘good businessman’ mindset.” He also knows the importance of delegation and sharing of power. On another occasion, a few dealers went to see him, he involved two of his top managers into the conversation. And he actually took a back seat in the conversation and allowed the two managers to steer the meeting. This speaks volumes of his progressive thinking.

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Did You Know? Uptus, coreni que rere alique parunt quatures alitat.Lut officient endant quodi te nobis natibus. Ficienim quam venit estiumque nonsequia ducit et aut parum 88

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R C Bhargava Chairman, Maruti Suzuki Born: July 30, 1934

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quati qui demostrum hit inciam fugiatem. Sedit, qui ut fugiantestis dolest, esero eum iur, velendel int hiciendia ventor mi, od est, ex entiatis maximeniet lignistium ipsum utas ipitae parum que liti omnimus res aditibus aliquam ut acerferuptas expellor sinctus. Henditat res sundemp eratia culpa di arciis mi, odionsequate cus elloreptatem facereptatem nosam labo. Henistis mi, consedi diciant, si omnimi, simuscium eos ea nonseque ex expliqui re idebitius eligend elitiatem rem. Fic to corat eume volo voluptu storum doluptur? Nos estiandae dolum labore, omnimus. Omnis inihicit lant quo corisci duciis ipsus molupta veria ea doles audigni maionse rsperum hictionsed mo optas vel in rehenis aut essimpo storiatio cus es explacium nullit magnimo loritaspel ium est vel moditamendes reruptate eat apere, odignam eateniatur? Ectassi tatius aut aut quid magnatia nonecaborepe quamenihilis moluptaque corem. Nequi nonse exceruptate voluptate aut quias

Photo Courtesy: Forbes India

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Did You Know? Uptus, coreni que rere alique parunt quatures alitat.Lut officient endant quodi te nobis natibus. Ficienim quam venit estiumque nonsequia ducit et aut parum 90

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Ratan Tata Chairman Emeritua, Tata Sons Born: December 28, 1937, Surat, India

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Years

Did You Know? The vehicle SUMO is name after Sumant Moolgaokar as a tribute to his contribution towards Tata Motors (TELCO). 92

Years

Sumant Moolgaokar Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Tata Motors (TELCO) Born: March 5, 1906, Mumbai, India

With a B. Sc. (Hons.) in Engineering from the City & Guilds (Imperial College) London, Sumant Moolgaokar began his career in the cement industry during the pre-independence era. Moolgaokar was a fervent crusader for research, product development, quality control and technical and managerial industrial growth of our country. Credited as one of the earliest proponents of the heavy engineering industry in India, he was instrumental helping build and develop several heavy engineering projects in the country. Sumant is often referred to as the architect of TELCO. Leading the company for nearly four decades, he was responsible for building the company into an organization capable of competing with the world’s best – in terms of people, processes and technology. Very early on Sumant recognized the need for India to be self sufficient in indigenous production processes. He pursued this goal throughout his career and at TELCO he converted this passion into the Engineering Research Centre and the Machine Tool and Press Tolls Division.

To date, he is one of the best known automotive executives India has seen. He possessed a unique ability & vision to transform a good company into a great company. His golden principal advocated to FADA always was – ‘Look after the hand (customer) that feeds you.’ He always encouraged dealers to stay closely connected with the customers and get feedback directly. Sumant Moolgaokar loved hunting in his younger days but later in life he turned that passion towards photography and became an avid nature photographer. His love with nature also saw him initiate and inculcate the culture of tree plantation at the Jamshedpur and Pune plants of TELCO – a practice that has seen several thousand trees being planted and raised to date in and around the manufacturing plants. It is said that Sumant lived on the site that was to become Tata Motors manufacturing unit in Pune for about a year to study the sun, wind and rain direction and logistical convenience for future expansion.

Years

Did You Know? Venu Srinivasan personally oversees the food menu for his dealer conferences. He is very particular about what is served to his dealer family. 94

Years

Venu Srinivasan Chairman, TVS Motor Company Born: December 11, 1952, Madras, India

The Chairman of TVS Motor Company, Venu Srinivasan is the grandson of the founder of TVS Group – T V Sundaram Iyengar. But while the company may be named after its founder, Venu Srinivasan his grandson and the Chairman of TVS Motor has been instrumental in turning the once ailing company around and making it a powerhouse of technology and quality. Venu Srinivasan has been a strong willed leader aside from also being a visionary backed by his strong engineering background. One of his strongest traits has been an unwavering commitment to quality and excellence, a quality he has instilled deeply within the TVS Group and towards which he has spared no effort. Through the nineties and the early 2000s TVS Motors went through some rough patches but Venu with an iron will and focus addressed all the issues plaguing the company. The JV with Suzuki that brought them a fair amount of technology came to a conclusion in 2001 and Venu clearly recognised the need to invest in research

and development to secure the company’s future. Today TVS is a leading manufacturer with one of the strongest technology arms in the country. Venu strived to put several quality processes in place and that effort was rewarded when TVS Motor Company become the first motorcycle in the world to win the prestigious ‘DEMING’ award for Total Quality Management (TQM) in 2002. To the dealer fraternity, Venu Srinivasan comes across as a very friendly and approachable person. He has an in-depth knowledge of dealership operations and understands the strengths & weaknesses of each of dealers. Always open to the exchange of ideas, he regularly involves dealers in strategizing and planning processes. Born and brought up in south India, studied in Chennai and then in the United States, his love for Rajasthani food cannot be hidden. A religious person and a devotee himself, Mr. Srinivasan is also a chief Trustee in the Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

THE JOURNEY A drive down memory lane revisiting the landmark events that shaped the Indian automotive industry.

1898

1903

The first motorised car arrives in India brought by a resident of Calcutta

Dunlop opens an office in Mumbai, is the first to bring pneumatic tyres to India for cycles.

An American company starts off Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first taxi service in Mumbai with a fleet of 50 cars.

1903 The first steam car is built in India by Simpson and Co, later on they indegenously manufacture India’s first diesel engine for surface transport vehicles.

1928 General Motors begins assembly of CKD kits of its cars and trucks in Mumbai

1930 Ford begins CKD assembly of cars and light trucks in India

1942 Hindustan motors is born

n 1942 B.M Birla began what was effectively India’s first automotive company. The firm began life at Port Okha, Gujarat. Operations were then shifted in 1948 to Uttarpara in West Bengal. However, it wasn’t until 1958 that Hindustan Motors, also known as Hind Motors began to assemble the car that it was most famous for - the Morris Oxford III based Ambassador. HM continued to build the Ambassador for nearly 60 years before production was finally stopped in 2014. For many years the Ambassador was king of the road with the only competition coming from the Fiats built by PAL. In 1983, the company also brought out the more premium Contessa which was based on the Vauxhall Victor. However, the arrival of the Maruti 800 marked the decline for HM. Customers were lured away by the more modern and far more affordable small Japanese car. Over the years, HM had many tie -ups with firms including Isuzu for engines and more recently, Mitsubishi Motors.

1944

Premier Automobiles Limited is formed

n 1941, the well-known Walchand Hirachand Group started selling DeSoto, Dodge, Fargo and Plymouth vehicles in India under licence from Chrysler. As business picked up, Premier Automobiles Ltd (PAL) was formed in 1944. In independent India, PAL began local manufacturing of select automotive components to bring down the prices of these imported cars. But government laws back then classified these cars as luxury automobiles and so PAL needed a small car that could serve as the breadbringer for the brand. After negotiations with Fiat, in 1964, Premier started to manufacture the iconic 1100 sedan under licence. The new government laws put a cap on the number of cars that every company could sell every month and put restrictions on the model upgrades and replacements. Further additions to the laws in the 1970s insisted local manufacturing of the cars and so, the 1100 was then manufactured at PALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s factory in Kurla, Mumbai. The name was changed from the 1100 to President, but upon objection from the government, it was then renamed to Padmini, inspired by Queen Padmini of Chittor. At subsidised rates, the vehicles were also sold to the Maharashtra state government as taxis, some of which run in Mumbai even today. Premier followed up with many other models like the Fiat 124 derived 118 NE, the Peugeot 307, the Uno and in current times, the Rio compact SUV, to name a few; but none have replicated the aura of the Padmini. At a time where the bulbous Ambassador was a favourite amongst industrialists and politicians and when the imports were considered too big and expensive for our nascent market, the Padmini established itself as a sleek, compact, light and comfortable yet affordable car that became popular amongst white collar workers, upper middle-class families and even Bollywood celebrities. It dominated its bracket despite the advent of the Maruti 800, only to be challenged by the entry of the global brands in the economic liberalisation era that kick-started in 1991.

100

1945 Mahindra and Mahindra launch Willys Jeep (CJ-3A)

he first Willys Jeep prototypes for civilian use (hence CJ for Civilian Jeep) were created around 1944. The CJ-3A came out in 1949 and it was around that time that Mahindra purchased the licence to make these Jeeps in India. As did a number of other organisations in other countries. In 1953 came the CJ3B, which is perhaps the most popular of the Jeepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s civilian versions overall. The B had a higher grille and hood for a taller new engine. The B was the basis of a number of vehicles that Mahindra made even as late as 2010. Later, when the CJ-5, identified by its curved bonnet, came out, Mahindra continued to evolve their Indian line. The CJ-5 is regarded as the Willys/Jeep model that was produced for the longest time. In India, the MM540, the model based on the CJ-5, is considered one of the most iconic of the Mahindra Jeeps in design. It started production in 1985, received a new engine in 1997 and in 2000, Mahindra created the eight-seater version, the MM550. The Classic 4x4 was also created on the same platform. While it boasted a new chassis and engine, the Thar which came out in 2010, still has strong links to the MM540 and hence, the CJ-5.

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1945

1948

1954

1960

Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company (TELCO) later to become Tata Motors is formed to manufacture locomotives.

Standard Motor Products of India begins operation launches the Vanguard

TELCO launches Tata Mercedes Benz trucks in Jamshedpur

Bajaj Auto & Automobile Products of India launch Vespa and Lambretta respectively

Production of motorcycles commences in India with Royal Enfield

1949

t was in 1949 that Madras Motor Company, based in Madras (now Chennai), received an order to supply Royal Enfield 350cc Bullets to the Indian Army. In the process, they became the first in India to manufacture motorcycles. The kits came from Britain and were assembled at their factory. Soon, the production would expand and engines would be assembled here as well. A year after the motorcycles started being assembled, the company introduced many other models, including the 650cc Meteor twin, a number of 250cc motorcycles and the big ones including the Super Meteor, Constellation and the Interceptor. Shortly afterwards, the Indian Army stipulated that the Bullets would continue to be part of the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vehicles if they were made entirely in India. That really began the incredible history of the Royal Enfield brand as we know it today. By 1970, Enfield India would be the new company name. This is the company that would bring out the 250cc Mini Bullet and explore a tieup with Zundapp that would lead to the Fury.

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1960

1971

1972

1974

1978

Ideal Jawa makers of Jawa and Yezdi starts business based out of Mysore

Bajaj Auto & API launch 3-wheeler goods carriers

Kinetic Engineering Limited begins operation, introduces the Luna moped.

Sipani Automobiles is founded, become famous for selling India’s first 3-wheeled car called the ‘Badal’

TVS sets up a plant in Hosur, Karnataka to manufacture mopeds

Abolishment of the Price Control Order

1975

rice controls and capacity controls were common for the Indian automotive industry in the post-independence years. The first informal price controls arrived - capacity controls were already in place - in the mid-fifties. It was in September 1969, that the Tarriff Commission’s recommendations led to statutory price controls on passenger cars. It was also around this time, roughly, that the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices (MRTP) and the Foreign Exchange Regulation Acts (FERA) were part of the increasing regulation of the Indian auto industry. We had gotten used to technology transfers but the new government was looking into actual foreign investments. It was after the oil crisis that the government began to encourage capacity expansion in the non-luxury segments, which led to the sudden spurt in the number of, for example, twowheeler makers in the market. It was post 1975 that India saw a string of minor licensing regulations become more relaxed. This led to the lifting of price controls on cars, two- and threewheelers.

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1982

1983

Technology imports on selective basis was allowed during 1982-83 for scooters, motorcycles and light commercial vehicles

Lohia Machines Private Limited or LML enters into agreement with Piaggio

Hero Group and Honda of Japan sign a JV to produce motorcycles

The RD 350 B launched in India by Escorts under the brand name Rajdoot 350.

1981 Launch of Maruti Udyog

aruti Udyog became a corporate entity in 1981 and the production of its first car, the Maruti 800, nee Suzuki Alto SS80 would start two years later. But Maruti’s full history starts as much as a decade earlier. In 1970, Maruti Technical Services was created as an R&D brain bank aimed at India’s first indigenous car. In 1971, Maruti Limited was created and Sanjay Gandhi became the top boss. Six years later, the company’s run ended. It was a year after Gandhi’s death that the reigning Prime Minister Indira Gandhi pushed for the resurrection of the Maruti name and the search for a JV partner ended with Suzuki signing up for a 26 per cent stake in Maruti Udyog, the rest would vest with the Indian Government. Initially the company was only an importer. It was permitted to bring in 40,000 CBUs over the first two years. Slowly, plans to localise more of the cars began to form. Competitors, Hindustan Motors and Premier Auto, complained vociferously. But India had tasted a modern car and the juggernaut that is Maruti Suzuki today was already gathering fearsome momentum.

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1984

1985

Distribution control order abolished

Hero Honda CD100 launched, ushers in the fill it shut it forget it generation

IND Suzuki AX100 launched

Yamaha RX 100 launched

Yamaha enters into agreement with Escorts Group

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1986

1988

Citi Bank starts auto finance, people queue up seeking auto loans

Rajah Motors Kazwa is India’s first MPV but sadly never sees the light of day

Hero brings Austrian Puch Maxi Plus scooter to India, sold as the Hero Puch

The first Indian Auto Expo is held

he first Auto Expo held in Delhi spread over nine days in January 1986. Officially it was meant to showcase how India was absorbing international technology - at the time, India was a land of tightly controlled industry, featuring a number of joint ventures. Reigning Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to the show underlined the significance of the event. But the first Auto Expo wasn’t as much of a success or as important as the biennial show is considered today. When the 1986 show closed, it was clear that the Indian automotive market wasn’t moving fast enough and definitely wasn’t big enough to handle an annual show. It would take six years before the second Auto Expo would be held. The participation and scale of the event would grow, of course, but that would come in time. The first show spanned 16,000 square metres at Pragati Maidan in Delhi. Some of the names that were involved - Allwyn Nissan, AP Scooters, DCM Toyota, Escorts, Gujarat Narmada Auto, HMT, Ideal Jawa, Kinetic, Kelvinator, Maharashtra Scooters, Majestic Auto, Standard Motors... Many of these don’t exist anymore and others have been acquired, merged or purchased. But these names were amongst the participants who exhibited their products and technology at the first Auto Expo. It was in 1998 that the Auto Expo became a biennial event. From the first Auto Expo to now, India’s automotive production has become more than ten times greater. WIthout doubt, the Auto Expo needs to grow further. Today the Auto Expo has moved into a better new home. It is considered amongst the most important shows on this side of the world and the showgoer numbers make it one of the best attended automotive shows of all.

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1989

1990

The Motor Vehicle Act of 1988 comes into force, replacing the previous Act of 1939. It provides in detail legislative provisions regarding licensing, registration, control through permits, traffic regulations, insurance, liability etc

1986

Helmets become mandatory by law

Rover Montego first turbo diesel car assembled in Indi a

1991 Indian automobile industry is de-licensed

T I

n 1988, a new Motor Vehicle Act replaced the one that had been serving the nation since 1939. Section 129 of this new act stated that anyone riding a motorcycle should wear a helmet. The act came into effect in 1989 but even 26 years later, authorities struggle to enforce the law. Nevertheless, the incorporation of the law came at exactly the right time. Motorcycles had just started to be mass produced a few years before and the market had just begun a growth story that would cross numbers the world had never seen in just a couple of decades. Helmet enforcement over the years has come in waves. Different states would suddenly declare that they were going to enforce the rule which would sometimes stay in effect for a short while before lax set in with the enforcers. In some cases such as Bangalore, the law is strictly enforced but in many large cities, Pune being a prime example, it would seem that the regulation doesn’t exist. There’s also the issue that our current ISI standards are outdated and that motorists are willing to use cheap and ineffective gear that can be picked up off the street for less than Rs 100. The level of road safety in India is still appallingly low especially when it comes to two-wheelers. Proper enforcement of Section 129 will go a long way in saving lives. But there’s an equally long way for that to happen.

he industrial de-licensing in 1991 marked the beginning of the economic liberalisation era in India. The government’s ambitious programme was based on the pillars of de-licensing, de-control, de-regulation and de-valuation. In 1993, the new automobile policy was announced. Apart from de-licensing, the policy included automatic approval for foreign holding of 51 per cent in Indian companies as well as reduction of excise and import duties. American, European, Japanese as well as Korean automobile manufacturers partnered with Indian companies and quickly set shop in the country. In fact, the total investment made in such a short span was unheard of at that time. Car buyers had a lot more options to choose from apart from the existing models made by Hindustan Motors, Maruti Suzuki and Premier Automobiles. Motorcycle brands also increased in number, especially in partnership with Japanese makers. From then on, the automobile industry has grown at a very rapid pace. Today it accounts for 22 per cent of the country’s manufacturing gross domestic product (GDP) and is also one of the biggest job creators. The government even encourages foreign direct investment now up to 100 per cent. The automobile industry is one of India’s best and fastest growing industries and this wouldn’t have been possible without de-licensing.

107

1994

Hero Splendor, the most sucessful motorcycle in India is launched, goes on to sell up to a million units a year

Royal Enfield merges with tractor and commercial vehicle manufacturer Eicher Group, continues to manufacture the Enfield Bullet

1994

Reva Electric Car Company is Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first electric car manufacturer, starts operations to develop and manufacture an electric car

Peugeot enters India with PAL, builds the 309 which was initially very successful but the venture died out 7 years later

1994 Mercedes-Benz sets up shop in India

lthough 1994 was the year when Mercedes-Benz India came into existence, the German brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s association with our nation began much before that year. These luxury cars had been imported into India for years and the royalty was particularly fond of them, along with the British Bentleys and Rolls-Royces. When the company first came to India, they brought a powerful weapon, the iconic W124 series E-Class. Over the years, more models came along but it was always going to be the rectangular headlamp E-Class that people identified as a Mercedes-Benz. And this was in the days when the only other premium cars you could buy were the Maruti Esteem and Daiwoo Cielo. Owning a Mercedes-Benz was the last word in luxury in the Indian market. Mercedes ran without any competition in India for years before BMW joined the game in 2006 and Audi, a year later. Still, even in this day and age, cars from Mercedes are often perceived as the most prestigious. In 2009, Mercedes opened their CKD assembly plant in Chakan outside Pune. 2014 was a particularly good year for the brand with sales crossing the ten thousand mark for the first time.

108

1994 DCM Daewoo sets up shop to manufacture light commercial vehicles. Daewoo introduce Cielo, the first fuel-injected luxury sedan a year later

1995 Hero brings the BMW F650 Funduro to India, it becomes the first premium motorcycle officially sold in India

1995 Honda ties up with Siel in India, introduces first car the City in 1998, one of the most succesful mid-size sedans in India

1995 Ford enters India, introduces first car, a subcompact sedan â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ikonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; four years later.

109

1996 Labour issues, stringent emission norms and no forward plan force Ideal Jawa to shut down. Motorcycles go on to achieve cult status

110

1996 Hyundai and General Motors enter India. Hyundai introduces the Santro while GM rolls out the Opel Astra. A decade later the Opel brand is discontinued

1997 PAL Peugeot merger ends after labor issues, poor dealer network and Fiat tie up with PAL exacerbate ties between PAL Peugeot.

1997 Toyota enters India, takes 2 years to introduce their first product, the Qualis. A runaway success, it puts a spotlight on the MPV segment.

1998 Self registration of vehicles by dealers first introduced in Delhi

1998 Kinetic and Honda split. Lack of technology especially 4-stroke engines troubles Kinetic.

1998

1999 Introduction of emission norms. Stringent campaign kicked off to check PUC on all vehicles in India.

1999 Tata launches the Indica, India’s first indigenous car. Goes on to achieve a record for highest boookings for a single car in India

India’s first expressway is inaugurated

1990, the Government of Maharashtra asked RITES (Rail India Technical and Economic Service) and Scott Wilson Kirkpatrick to conduct a feasibility study for a new expressway between Mumbai the financial capital of India to Pune, a big educational and industrial hub. Seven long years later, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation was given the order for construction of the expressway and on the January 1, 1998 work orders were given to four contractors to start work on the expressway. The main purpose of this expressway was to bring about an economical benefit to the two cities by reducing travel time between them. And that it did. Traffic snarls and slow moving jams were a regular occurrence on the old road but when the expressway finally opened, travel time was cut down by more than half. With the new route between these two cities, more opportunities were created for people to commute between the cities to make a living. The expressway also created faster connections to other cities south of Pune like Satara, and Kolhapur. The new six-lane concrete expressway cut through the mountains which made it a scenic route and also enjoyable for the driving enthusiast. It also had the effect of drastically reducing traffic on the old road which today has become an enjoyable route for motorcyclists who aren’t allowed on the expressway. The Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway, as it is officially called, is

111

2000 Honda launches the Activa, starts the step-through scooter revolution.

2000 Fiat officially enters India with the Palio hatch. Previsouly cars like 1100, 124 and Uno were manufactured under license by PAL

2000 Sipani Automobiles despite selling cars under license from Reliant, Daihatsu and Rover goes bankrupt

CNG buses/rickshaws introduced in Delhi

2001

elhi is home to a large fraction of India’s metropolitan population, both of the human and automotive kind. It is also infamous for its massive pollution levels that are a cause of many health issues. The culprits, of course, were the vehicles, a lot of them poorly maintained while the low fuel quality wasn’t of much help either. In 1995, a lawyer filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Supreme Court of India to highlight the health risks caused by emissions from vehicles. As a result, the Supreme Court directed the Government to take appropriate steps and set a deadline of April 2001 to modify buses to run on CNG. The directive also asked the government to increase the number of filling stations and provide incentives for conversion to CNG. Bus fleet owners were given the chance to either replace the ageing engines, fit a CNG kit or buy a brand new CNG bus. Many opted for acquiring new buses.The directive also required rickshaw owners to opt for the greener fuel. As time progressed, the benefits of adopting CNG to fuel public transport paid huge dividends. Pollution levels fell, the air quality rose and the operational costs of buses and trucks also dropped as CNG is relatively cheaper to conventional fuel. Another positive was that the CNG fuelling infrastructure grew vastly which convinced a lot of people to convert their cars to run on CNG as well.

112

Hero becomes the world’s largest 2-wheeler manufacturer on strength of productslike CD100 and Splendor

TVS and Suzuki split up after differences of opinion in how company must be run crop up.

2001 Skoda enters India, introduces the Octavia which becomes a bestseller.

2003 DCM Daewoo goes into liquidation, a couple of years after Daewoo globally runs into financial pronblems.

2004

2006

Porsche enters India

BMW enters India

Photo Courtesy: Daniel Mennerich @ Flickr Photos

2001

113

2006 Standard Motor Products of India Ltd shuts shop. On the other hand Suzuki 2-wheeler re-enters the Indian market

114

2007 Mahindra enters the passenger car business with Renault, goes on to launch the Logan

2007 Audi enters India followed by Volkswagen

2008 Mahindra buys Kinetic, becomes Mahindra Two Wheelers, aspires to become a major player in short time.

2008 Tata in landmark move acquires Jaguar Land Rover from Ford. The historic purchase resurrects JLR pushing them into a new profitable era.

2008 Mahindra buys Engines Engineering

2008 Jaguar/Land Rover, Lamborghini, Nissan enter India

2009

Bajaj in a landmark move decides to stop manufacturing scooters and focus solely on making motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson enters India, over next few years becomes most successful premium 2-wheeler player in India prompting others to follow suit.

2009 Tata launches the Nano

he Tata Nano was heralded as the car which would change the way India travelled. Billed as the common man’s car, the car was the brainchild of the serving chairman of the Tata group, Ratan Tata. He envisioned getting the common man and his family off a two wheeler into the safety and convenience of an affordable car. So, the chairman instructed the head honchos of his group’s automotive arm, Tata Motors, to develop a car that offers decent space, a frugal engine, safety and reliability, all at a starting price of one lakh rupees. Sadly it was an uphill task all the way with issues with the original plant that was to be at Singur that delayed the project. Constantly rising costs, partly down to the delay made it all the more challenging for Tata to stick to the promised price The Tata Nano was launched on March 23, 2009 in front of an ecstatic crowd in Mumbai by Ratan Tata who drove the Nano onto the stage. He appreciated and thanked his employees for achieving the goal and said, “We have made a promise and we have kept that promise,” as he declared the price of the base Nano at Rs 1 lakh (exfactory). The car could be booked by paying a sum of Rs 2,999 upfront at any of State Bank of India’s branches across 850 cities. It was received quite well, with Tata looking at a huge order to complete even before production shifted to Gujarat. But issues with image and some stray cases of cars catching fire sadly meant that the Nano was never to become the sales superstar Tata hoped it would be. While the original car was quite spartan, constant updates over the years have resulted in a cheerful car that is very at home within the city limits.

115

2010 Mahindra acquires Reva. Work begins on development and production of e2o, an electric hatchback for domestic and global consumption.

2010 The same year Mahindra expands its footprint by acquiring a controlling interest in Korean based SsangYong Motor Company

2010 India becomes Asia’s third largest exporter of cars

ver the past decade, it quickly became apparent that India presented itself as a profitable base for producing cars not only for the local market but also for the world. India has a strong engineering base with an expertise in manufacturing low cost, fuel efficient cars. Coupled with that, relatively cheap labour makes it feasible to produce vehicles for both domestic and international markets. Also, it’s become easy to source quality parts that are built to specification from Indian vendors as globalisation gives access to world class manufacturing technologies. Hyundai Motor India Limited who began exporting their Santro to Nepal in 1999 are currently the largest vehicle exporters in India. They now export almost their entire line-up to markets including Europe. India’s market leader Maruti-Suzuki, Nissan and Ford are major exporters. By 2009, India would overtake China as the fourth largest exporter of cars and, just a year later, surpass Thailand to move to number three. Two-wheelers are also exported by both native and international manufacturers. From Bajaj Auto to Yamaha, most major motorcycle manufacturers export bikes that are made in India. Last year we exported nearly four times more bikes than cars. As per the stats that are released by the Society Of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), India exported 5,93,507 passenger vehicles as well as 20,83,938 two wheelers in FY 2013-14. Include commercial vehicles and three-wheelers and the total exports for the year stands at 31,07,893 units. That is a huge leap from 15,30,594 units in FY 2008-2009. At this growth rate, India is steadily catching up with Japan and South Korea who occupy the top two spots.

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2011

2010

2011

Ferrari & Aprilia Following a 2005 mandate Supreme Court enters India. steps in to enforce high security number plates introduction in all states. Most comply some still in process

2012

BMW and TVS tie up in a JV that will see technology transfer and manufacturing shared between the two players for domestic and international markets.

Bajaj launches the KTM brand in India with the Duke 200

Hero Honda split

ero Honda was perhaps one of the most fruitful relationships in the the history of automotive industry. From originating as a bicycle business in the 1950s to tying up with a Japanese giant in 1983 and becoming the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest motorcycle manufacturer in 2001, the company came a very long way. But in late 2010 the dream was to end with Hero and Honda splitting in a phased manner. Honda would begin its fight for the Indian market at HMSI or Honda Motorcycles and Scooters Limited while Hero would continue to protect its huge market share of nearly 50 per cent as Hero MotoCorp. In the past four years, Honda has established itself as the master of scooters, a segment that is growing enormously in India while Hero continues to be king of the small capacity commuter segment. But there is a clear difference in the direction the two companies are heading in. While Honda appears to be focussing on safe, mass market products for now, Hero is heading into the unknown. The tie-up with Erik Buell Racing gives them a wealth of sportsbike R&D and the first all-new product from this tie-up will be the upcoming HX 250R due this year. It would appear that Hero will naturally continue to profit from its massive dealership network and traditional customer base but we might also see a parallel line of sporty and often quirky machines that will result from the EBR purchase. Either way, the next decade will witness a fascinating battle for supremacy between these two giants.

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AUTOMOBILE COMPANIES

YEARS AGO

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Those were challenging times, a nation was seeking to expand its horizons. At the cusp of this expansion was a major push towards industralisation. The automotive industry in particular which has always had a fair amount of glamour associated with it anywhere in the world was slowly buidling stronger ties with India. The foundations were being put in place. 50 years ago, were very interesting times!

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MILESTONES ON THE

INDIAN ROADS The Indian automobile industry has come a long way. From the scurry to make indigenous parts to make German made cars on the Indian soil, the Indian consumer has seen the meteoric rise of this sector. But apart from as an industry, it left a strong footprint on our culture and memories through its advertising. This section is a celebration of the Indian automobile advertising. Hope this takes you on a drive down memory lane.

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Benz & Co.

New! Practical!

The year 1886, the birth of the modern car. The year 1888, the first ad for an automobile (perhaps this answers the question, why I love this business), and yes it’s German. Also it says, ‘new’ and ‘practical’ with exclamation marks on the top. Not much has changed in advertising now, has it?

Bajaj Scooter Hamara Bajaj Try googling, old Indian ads, and out of the plethora of television commercials from a budding advertising industry of that time, this piece pops up. People have literally grown up with this ad, and it is but futile delving into the technicalities of this advert. This one really set the trend of montage films, although later many lost the plot. Everything was so right about this one. There were no big promises of mileage or service, or a brochure like presentation of numbers in supers. The ‘buland Bharat ki buland tasveer’ said it all. It’s a gateway to the time machine that will take you back to the DD days.

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Premier Automobiles

Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest moving car

I think it was a beautiful visual idea for those times. A simple yet catchy execution, and the sheer conviction behind the idea, enough not to show the car, makes this one a beauty.

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Ambassador Mark II Ambassadorial status The car that was the ultimate status symbol of an era, had a print ad to match. Nobody can forget, the soft, richly upholstered seats, the space, and of course the interiors. The car carried the who’s who of the country, and it is subtly reflected in the ad (The ideal car for the chauffer-driven.)

Maruti Service No matter where you go you are never far from a Maruti Service One of the most charming commercials of the era, this one was a bliss to watch and with a serious repeat value. Instead of just a slate saying, ‘Maruti Suzuki – Most service stations in India’, the team decided to give a delightful spot to viewers. Shot in Ladakh, this one follows two hapless travellers searching for food and shelter, and maybe, just maybe, a Maruti Service station. This one went on to become one of the ad films with the highest recall. It further strengthened the equity of a brand, that was already going strong, and is still known for its reliable after sales service.

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Premier Padmini Hey! Where’s my chauffeur? While some cars took pride in being ideal for ‘chauffer-driven’, this one turned the scenario on its head. Some beautiful copy craft in this one. A very casual, conversational tone, sprinkled with generous doses of subtle humour. And to top it all, it has wonderful strategy too. Apart from talking to corporates, which I feel was a superb idea, it also talks of the rest of the features of the car, in a rather interesting manner.

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Ideal Jawa Announcement! Even today, the Jawa makes heads turn when one of them decides to glide on Marine drive. There was a reason why Jawa need not say anything in the headline except the word announcement. It did not need to.

Hero Honda CD-100 Fill it. Shut it. Forget it. 80 kms a litre. And in an era, where the fuel prices were still sane. The ‘Fill it-Shut it-Forget it’ made the CD 100 the bike that gave the best value for its buck. The campaign remains one of the iconic ones from the 80s and it made Hero Honda, the first name that every Indian thought of while buying a bike. And what’s more, the bike delivered what was said in every frame of the ad. We might have forgotten to fill the tanks of our CD -100, but we will never forget this ad.

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Rajdoot GTS 175 The ‘Bobby’ bike This surely must be India’s most successful accidental product placement. After the success of the Rishi Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia starrer Bobby, this bike went into annuls of history with the movie. So much so, that the bike was called Bobby for years to come. This ad is just a continuation of the success story. And yes, it does have an aura of a celebration around it.

Lambretta

Rely on the Lambretta

The use of project engineers to sell the Lambretta is quite interesting. For a nation, which was just getting built ( in every sense of the word ), a project engineer was someone held in very high esteem. No wonder, the Lambretta was considered one of the most reliable and efficient scooters of its time.

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Mahindra Bolero Break free In a barrage of automobile ads every morning in the newspaper, with fixed grids and mandates, some prove that it is possible to weave magic. Just check out the wonderful headline. Features. Check. Smiles. Check.

Maruti 800 Mera Sapna Meri Maruti How do you make a car really aspirational? Make it a dream for a generation. Even if today it may seem unbelievable that a family had to wait for a generation to get its hand on a Maruti, the people who have lived the 80s have a different story to tell. There is a fleeting yet beautiful moment in the end, when the protagonist drives off with his teary eyed father and proud mother, into the sunset (or the bylanes of Nagpur if you look closely). There is a kid with his father on a scooter, looking dreamily at the car, and you have a dĂŠjĂ vu.

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Mahindra Classic Topless Models You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a crutch of a gimmick, or the overwhelming size of a full pager, when you have craft. And this ad shows just that. One of my personal favourites, this ad exudes class, and demonstrates the power of simplicity. A tongue-in-cheek headline, which is not vulgar, but gutsy, with just a product shot, made this one of the finest Indian print ads. Kudos the agency, and of course Mahindra, for giving us this one.

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Kinetic

Closer to you One of the leading names in scooters and mopeds, Kinetic had captured the imagination of a generation. Especially, the orange self-start button felt like sorcery. No wonder, they had such a large and loyal customer base. And instead of just putting it in a starburst, the agency decided to make it a bit interesting. The result, a double spread ad in a leading automobile magazine.

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Montana

The Montana 4D Long before the Tatas, the Sipanis had launched a people’s car, called the Dolphin. The two-door Dolphin, was overhauled to make way for the four-door Montana, thanks to the launch of the Maruti 800. Though a favourite amongst rally drivers, the Montana was sadly eclipsed by Maruti.

Maruti Suzuki Kitna Deti Hai Kya sundar kaam hain boss! This is the kind of work that just comes once in a while and sweeps you off with its charm. The simplicity is just too enamouring and makes you smile every single time you see one of these. And yes, it was a full-fledged campaign and not a one off, which makes it even more endearing. ‘For a country obsessed with mileage’, still echoes in my ears when I see a Maruti and thus this ad manages almost full marks on the board for a beautiful insight and hilarious films.

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Yamaha RX 100

By far, the leader in its class. If you have ever been cut on the city roads, by a bike that zooms with like a rocket with an unmistakable sound, it has to be an RX 100. I like many of us always thought, how could a rider feel so safe and confident on this machine? I think the ad answers all the necessary questions. Also I love the line â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;By far, the leader in its classâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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Rugby The Durant ‘Star’ Car! Apart from the charm of this vintage car, there are certain places that will bring smiles to the readers’ faces. First, ‘A real car’ is the proposition of Rugby and it is called ‘the last word in motoring’ . Second, it openly challenges to take any hill in Bombay at top speed. In an era laced with disclaimers and applied conditions, such a statement can only be seen in an ad from the good ol’ days.

Royal Enfield Make way for the Bullet There two types of bikes. Those, who demand respect with heavy voiceovers, stunts, and slickly shot commercials. And those who command it, like the Royal Enfield. Over the years, the Bullet has graduated from being just an awesome bike. It has become a way of life. Ask a loyalist, and very few bikes can claim to have them, and he will tell you why. And this is what is captured in this wonderful TVC. This is one of those pieces of communication, that make you want to rush to the nearest dealership.

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Ashok Leyland Helping India meet her transport problems A nice illustration to announce the new project of Ashok Leyland. The ad belongs to an era where indigeneity mattered a lot, and thus had to be brought in with much fanfare.

Standard 2000

Promises are made to be kept Trust. The biggest factor while buying a car. There is a reason why the Maruti is a success story today. And the reason, why the Standard 2000 decided to roll out this ad. Very few can claim to keep the promises they make, you know.

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Bajaj Tempo Why waste big money on small loads? What caught my eye in this ad was the statement, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tempo is over 90% indigenous.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Maybe it was the availability of spares (I imagine, a spare must take months to reach and burn a hole the size of the Grand Canyon in your pocket), more than the patriotism. But this statement, is a stark antithesis to the preference of foreign automobile manufacturers today. Moreover, the headline is well written and it talks about traffic congestion. Guess a traffic jam is a very old arch nemesis.

Chevrolet I am India This film announced the entry of Chevrolet in India. Since India is such a diverse country, rich in culture and heritage, it is an easy target for montages. But there are some montages which look fresh, even years after they are made. This is one of them. The moustached South Indian guy, flashing his pearly whites, next to a Rajini cutout, was one of the sweetest visuals. More importantly, the ad made people accept Chevrolet, as one of their own.

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General Motors Service A year of achievement There were no computers, let alone software, and everything was hand drawn in those times. Enough said.

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Premier Padmini Deluxe - BE Apart from the fact that this was the car I grew up with, yes, the exact blue one, and of course Sangeeta Bijlani, the reason why this ad is here is very special. Firstly, it was one of those automobile brands which carried an Indian name. Named after a 14th century Rajput princess Padmini, the car was known for its beauty. And secondly, the thought was not just left on paper with the marketing team of Premier. When an owner took home a Padmini, everybody knew he had got home ‘The Princess’.

Bajaj Pulsar Definetely Male ‘It’s a boy!’ And boy, what a brilliant ad. Even if the feminists cry foul, this one had an amazing recall over the years. It struck the right chords with its machismo, and defined the bike’s robust styling and powerful engine. The shot of the handlebar turning, looking at two hot nurses pass by, is etched on the minds of a generation. The first 180cc variant on the Indian roads, made the pulse race of the urban speed demons, and the rest is history. Today, the Bajaj Pulsar, is a success story with a number of variants ranging 135cc to 220cc.

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Tata Mercedes -Benz trucks The Star that hauls a fortune The common manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes are used to seeing the three-pointed star on a luxury sedan, or fairly recently on large luxurious buses. But there was a time when the Mercedes logo proudly rested on the grille of a truck. More so, it took pride in standing at a village fair, and as the ad rightly says, lending a hand to the prosperity of India. Life has come a complete circle as Mercedes makes a return to the heavy commercial vehicle segment in India.

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Willys Overland Jeep Fire Engine As a kid, I always wanted to be a firefighter. As 28 year old, I still want to be one when I see this machine. Imagine an open Jeep, complete with sirens, hoses and ladders. Orgasmic, to say the least.

Tata Sumo Victa Aap Ki Pehchan Tata Sumo had a mammoth task in front of them. How do you change the perception of this robust vehicle from a rattling and rickety touristy car to that one of a reliable one? Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, how would one expect to pay premium for a top end model of the same? And in came spot, with beautiful Hindi lines and a well-composed score. The beautiful montage, made it aspirational to drive a Sumo, and on its course of a minute, left you with a feeling, far from the general image of a Tata Sumo. A brilliant piece of advertising, must say.

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Royal Enfield Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Time...

This Royal Enfield ad romances your college days. But apart from the unique after sales service offer and stock of spares, maybe, just maybe, the rider would have loved an option of a pillion seat. Just because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s college. Just saying.

Ashok Leyland Built to carry heavier loads A catchy illustration and some fine typography, is why this ad stands out. While the idea might seem a bit obvious, there is a genuine effort to make the communication interesting. And for its time, I think it might have been successful in doing the same, to quite some extent.

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Rajdoot When you buy a Rajdoot, you buy a winner. This is what you get when the designer’s wife packs his favourite lunch. Or he has stakes in Rajdoot. Just look at this beautiful typography! It is a complete happiness overload. Even if this ad was printed today, it surely would have stood out in the clutter that the reader is subjected to every day.

Suzuki Samurai No Problem The bike really didn’t take off, but it gave the Indian audience a lot to talk about. The USP was simple, a low maintenance bike. The Japanese tourist offering a test ride to a random guy, and the hilarity that ensues, is something nobody can forget. What it managed to achieve, and what many brands yearn to do so, is a positive brand association with an almost 100% recall. Even today (years after the bike was discontinued), Suzuki Samurai and ‘No problem’ are said in the same breath.

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Ambassador Mark II Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report An Ambassador with a blood pressure machine. Need we say anything more? This ad has to be cuter than all the cat videos on YouTube put together. Also, the health report of the car is hilarious (no teething trouble), but makes a point. Surely the agency and the client were having a lot of fun, and made sure the readers too had some.

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ON THE ROAD

FIVE DECADES AGO An image gallery of cars belonging to an era lost in time, but not lost to time...

Pitectia aute estiae dellatio delias ea id mi, que vid et experibus nectae proRori beatur si aut repe volorem am aut laut aut excerferum, isto bernamus, que a aliti ipsam velesed quaest que sam, occum ipsa cus, seque ped

Rolls Royce cars were used for the transportation of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waste in India by Maharaja Jai Singh Prabhakar of the princely state of Alwar.

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Rolls Royce Silver Ghost 1921 carrying Maharaja Sir Vijaysinhji of Rajpipla and the then Governor of Bombay Sir Frederick Sykes

The prominent Gama Pinto family of Anjuna, Goa were the first to possess a car in the entire village. 1923 Bentley The 1930 Rolls Royce Boat Tail 1903 De-Dion Bouton 1902 All Days Onion Model

Tata Car Carrier by Kailash Auto Builders

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Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to the next 50 years...

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