Auto Expo 2012: Hyundai showcases MPV Hexa Space

Hyundai Motors on Thursday unveiled its concept multi-purpose vehicle 'Hexa Space' at the 11th Auto Expo in New Delhi. It also showcased a new version of Sonata, which it expects to launch in India by February end.

"We are showing our new concept MPV 'Hexaspace' for the first time ... It is too early to say when it could come in the market but it will take three to four years ..." Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) Director (Sales and Marketing)Arvind Saxena said at the global premiere of the MPV.

The vehicle has a seating for eight passengers and all the seats are shaped hexagonally to create optimum space utilisation. It has been designed for urban customers in the 30-40 age group, the firm said.

Asked if India would play a role in the development of the vehicle, he said, "India is a big market for the company and could definitely play a role in the development..but showcasing a concept only shows our way head. For developing a product for India, we need to see the environment and other factor also."

Besides, the company also showcased the sixth version of sedan Sonata here. The firm did not reveal the price of the new car but said it will announce it by the end of February.

"The new Sonata will strengthen our brand signature. Both the vehicles (Sonata and Hexaspace) will raise the bar and set new benchmarks in India's fast growing automobile market," HMIL Managing Director and CEO H W Park said.

The company also said it does not expect the revival of the auto industry in the current and next quarters and needs government intervention to boost the sentiment of the auto segment.

"It is a tough quarter.We expect the market condition will improve in the second half of next year. Government intervention is needed to create a positive vibe... Besides, softening of the interest rates could help the segment," Saxena said.
 
With PTI inputs