First Lotus India showroom to open in November
Autocar India, 6 Nov '24
A few months after entering the Indian market, Lotus Cars is now set to open its first showroom.
The Lotus Centre, located at the World Trade Centre in New Delhi, is styled in Lotus' signature colours, similar to any other Lotus Centre globally. Highlighting the showroom's importance, Satya Bagla, MD of Exclusive Motors (Lotus Cars' partner in India), commented that it provides Lotus with a "home" in the country.
In addition to a display of five cars, there is a dedicated configuration room where buyers can customise their vehicles, choosing from various body colours, wheels, interior themes, and tech options.
Interview with Satya Bagla, MD of Exclusive Motors
How important is a physical dealership in a country like India, where Lotus might not be as well-known as some of its competitors?
- Lotus sits at the very top of the electric car market in terms of both product and price. It's essential to communicate to customers the emotional and intrinsic value behind it. Additionally, customers need assurance that the brand is here to stay and has a proper presence. Once a customer steps in, they experience the brand first-hand, from the showroom environment to the product itself and the after-sales service.
Beyond dealerships, what are your plans to build the Lotus brand in India?
- We have an extensive database of HNIs who appreciate such products. Our goal is to create brand awareness across the country, introducing the product in various cities and allowing prospects to experience it. Through this, we hope to build a strong fan base.
Lotus has decided to go fully electric in a few years. Globally, EV sales are showing signs of tapering. Have you observed any similar trends in the high-end segment?
- There has indeed been some discussion around this. Like any new technology, not just in cars, there's often initial scepticism and resistance to change. But as more people experience EV technology, there will be an increase in electric vehicles across all brands on the road. With government support and improved infrastructure, the EV market will continue to grow. Electric vehicles are the future and are here to stay.
