Maruti Suzuki has got its single largest order ever of 4000 units for the Gypsy SUV from the Indian Army with 50 percent of the order already delivered.
The Gypsy has been one of the few iconic SUVs that is still on sale in the country and has been favoured for its go-anywhere capabilities, which also makes it a popular choice among the off-roading enthusiasts. Even after two decades post launch, the Gypsy hasn’t lost its sheen as Maruti Suzuki most recently bagged a massive order of 4000 units for the SUV, its single largest order to come from the Indian Army. While the company has not disclosed the financials of the deal, the order is expected to be worth around Rs. 216-230 crores.
The army and the paramilitary forces are a major customer for Maruti Suzuki. The defence forces have been purchasing the Gypsy since 1991 and have purchased a total of 31,000 units over the years. The SUV’s capability to operate in tough terrains and demanding conditions like that of Ladakh has made it a more reliable choice for the army, the company said in a statement. Adding further, the company stated that the good performance and ready availability of spares on Maruti cars also make it a more favourable choice for the army.
Certainly a major boost for the long in the tooth SUV, the military spec Maruti Gypsy is a lot different than the civilian version. The Gypsys for the army come equipped with black-out convoy lights, which emit a green ray during black-outs. The SUV also come with towing hooks and special hooks for mounting weapons. The elaborate standards and quality inspection processes are carried out continuously as the vehicle needs to be prepared to take a rough beating in tough geographic adversities. The car continues to come with an All-Wheel Drive set-up.
The military Gypsy however, comes equipped with the same 1.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine much like the civilian version, producing 80 BHP of power and 103 Nm of torque, with the ARAI rated mileage being 11.96 km/l. Out of the latest order of 4000 units, Maruti has already delivered 2100 units, while the remaining will be delivered in the next 5 months. The procurement from the government comes after a long time since the previous government had temporarily stopped purchasing vehicles in mid-2012 due to an austerity drive. Maruti also stated that another government entity the DGS&D has recently approved the procurement of the Ciaz that will only add to the volumes of the mid-size sedan.
Source – Business Standard
