Honda Cars India Limited, a completely owned subsidiary of the Japanese auto maker Honda Motor Co., has revealed intentions to export its i-DTEC diesel engine components to South East Asian and European markets from the country. At present, this i-DTEC motor powers the company’s latest offering- Amaze entry level sedan in the domestic car market. Along with exports, the Japanese auto maker would also introduce 3 or 4 new diesel powered models of its existing model fleet, which would enable it in enhancing its vehicle sales performance in the country.

Informing about the company’s future plans for the domestic market, Jnaneswar Sen, Senior Vice President (VP), Honda Cars India Limited, was quoted as saying, “We will export diesel engine components to Europe and South East Asian markets from India. This fiscal, the target is Rs. 500 crore against Rs. 332 crore registered in 2012-13.” The company seems to be unfazed by the Indian government’s decision to remove excise duty cuts on diesel vehicles. Honda Cars India is confident that diesel powered vehicle segment would remain in demand and continue to grow in the near future. Sen affirmed that the government’s decision did take them by surprise, but the popularity for diesel would remain strong in the country.

The Honda’s Senior VP informed that the company is working on bringing diesel powered Jazz and City models, along with new compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and seven-seater Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV). These models are expected to see Indian daylight in the next 2 to 3 years and would be powered with 1.5 litre or 1.6 litre oil burners, along with petrol options. Evidently, the domestic passenger car market is going through a paradigm shifting phase, with more and more buyers opting for diesel powered vehicles over their petrol models. Therefore, Honda Cars India’s strategy of bolstering its diesel line-up is looking healthy for both the company and its customers.