[GMusa]

Mahindra’s U.S. dealers lagging behind on new dealerships, showrooms

Although India’s Mahindra & Mahindra is moving full speed ahead with its plan to launch in the U.S. next spring, it seems that many of the dealers that signed up to sell the Indian automaker’s products are dragging their feet. In fact, many of Mahindra’s U.S. franchisees have yet to build a Mahindra showroom or dealership.

Although Global Vehicles U.S.A. Inc. – Mahindra’s U.S. importer – is confident that everything will be in place by next spring’s launch, some of the 315 committed retailers could be getting cold feet. Mahindra will launch in the U.S. with only a pickup truck and SUV, two of the fastest declining segments in the industry.

But even though Mahindra’s two key segments are down, some dealers are still optimistic about sales, thanks to the vehicles’ economic four-cylinder diesel engines. “I’m very enthusiastic about Mahindra,” a dealer from Toledo, Ohio told Automotive News. “Yes, truck sales are down. But Mahindra will offer something the market needs: a truck with good fuel economy.”

Mahindra’s initial U.S. offerings will include a pickup truck – that will be available in two or four-wheel drive – and a four-door SUV.

www.leftlanenews.com