Fiat eyes over 100 exclusive dealerships in India by the end of FY14

Italian auto maker Fiat is looking to expand presence in the country as it aims to have over 100 exclusive dealerships by the end of the current fiscal year (FY14).

"As part of restructuring our operations in the country, our aim is to have 100-plus dealerships in the country by the end of the current fiscal," said Nagesh Basavanahalli, president and managing director of Fiat-Chrysler India operations.

The company, which used to sell its cars through 176 Tata Motors dealerships till last year, currently has 54 exclusive dealerships so far in the country.

Last year, Fiat and Tata Motors ended the distribution alliance formed in 2007 to distribute and service the vehicles of the Italian firm.

"Initially, we are focusing on Tier-I and Tier-II cities and gradually would also look at having dealerships in other cities and towns," Mr Basavanahalli said.

When asked about the company's plans to enhance its brand image in the country, Mr Basavanahalli said Fiat is taking various steps, including a full-fledged marketing campaign.

"...Every single day dealer partners are signing with us...we are in the process of building the infrastructure... transition time is on," he added.

Fiat, which today launched an exclusive dealership here, plans to launch over nine new models in India in the next three years.

Among the new models, four would be from the Fiat portfolio, four from Chrysler and one from Abarth brand, Mr Basavanahalli said.

When asked if the company plans to set up a new manufacturing facility for the new models, he said, "Some (models) would be imported while others would be assembled here (in India)."