Force Motors to launch Viano based MPV

Force Motors has massive plans for the future and it all starts with the Mercedes-Benz Viano. Codenamed T0 (T-Zero) the new van (which will not be called Viano) is based on the previous generation Mercedes Viano platform and will be produced under licence from Mercedes-Benz. Unlike the Force One whose body panel work is imported pre stamped from China all the panels for the T0 will be stamped at Force’s Pithampur facility where a new body shop is being constructed.    The Mercedes-Benz Viano was originally launched in 1996 and sold up to 2004 when it was replaced by a second generation car. The Viano came with three seating configurations - 6, 7 or 8. The Viano’s length ranges from 4748mm to 5223mm across two wheelbase options while width and height stand at 1906mm and 1875mm respectively. Compare that with the Innova at 4580mm in length and 1770mm in width with a height of 1755mm and you have a considerably larger vehicle.    The T0 will be powered by the same OM611 2.2-litre Mercedes-Benz-sourced engine-gearbox solution but with the engine in a different state of tune producing 136PS. The T0 has a large target audience including the likes of hotels and transport fleets who are looking for something bigger than the Innova and yet with a touch of premiumness.    We expect the T0 to be priced between Rs 12 to 14 lakh which should position it attractively in the luxury van market. The T0 will go on sale by end 2012 through the dealer network set up for the Force One. Sixteen such dealers will be functional by end August while Force expects to have 25 operational by year end and 42 by next.