|
 Even the staid, good old Ambassador has decided to move with the times. A sleek version of the Ambassador car, called Ambassador Grand, was released in Chennai on September 2. And according to the management of Hindustan Motors Limited more modern and sleek versions will follow, perhaps in the mid-size segment.
The Grand has spruced up interiors and exteriors, "even while retaining the characteristic Ambassador silhouette that embodies the core concept of comfort, space and sturdiness", said Satish Burman, Vice-President, Marketing.
Burman said the new car is aimed at the niche segment, particularly bureaucrats and individual buyers. It comes with contemporary technological features such as power steering, power brakes and remote shift gear. Among the 137 changes introduced are large tail-lamps, new transparent head-lamps, a new rear number plate, front and rear bumpers and stylish wheel caps.
"Technologically, the car is today as contemporary as any other vehicle on the roads. Special care has been taken to retain the concept of the car, as we believe that the Ambassador will lose its charm and personality if it were to look any different", added
Burman.
The car now comes out in different and attractive metallic colours like boraque red, mica brown, thurston grey, ivory, bright silver and pearl black.
Soni Srivastava, GM, Corporate Communications, CK Birla Group, said the Grand petrol car would cost Rs 4.16 lakh (ex-showroom Chennai) and the diesel version Rs 4.40 lakh (ex-showroom Chennai). It comes with a warranty for one year or 50,000 kms whichever is earlier.
A new acoustic package has been developed in association with Treves of France. The exhaust has been revamped in association with Walker. Other features in the interior include a moulded roof liner, a wider choice of fabrics for the upholstery, glass and magazine holder, reading light, digital clock and hand brake in the
centre.
An effort has been made to make the new version less noisy and more comfortable. While several flashy cars have entered the Indian market, the Ambassador is a class apart because of its sturdiness and suitability to Indian conditions and also because it evokes a strong, nationalistic spirit. That is why, right from the Prime Minister to ministers in the states besides other VIPs, prefer the Ambassador as it represents the true spirit of nationalism and deserves patronage, Burman added.
|
